Youth Shape the City: Zabrze 2064

As part of Global Donut Days 2026, we invited young people to consider one important question: What needs to change for us to stay in Zabrze and build our future here?

The day began with an informal meeting at ZSEU school in Zabrze. While introducing students to our projects, we talked about Doughnut Economics, Global Donut Days and the City Portrait approach. The conversation gave students an opportunity to share their thoughts on what would make Zabrze a better place to live and what might encourage young people to stay in the city.

In the afternoon, we continued the discussion with members of our Youth European Club. These young people had already helped prepare Global Donut Days, including the international online event on 20 October, and had been involved in other Foundation projects and volunteering. Building on their experience and previous engagement, we adapted the workshop to explore the issues they considered most important for Zabrze’s future.

Using the Doughnut Economics approach, the group explored two connected areas: everyday life and future opportunities and development. Their ideas highlighted how social needs are linked to the quality of the urban environment, access to services and the opportunities available to young residents.

Everyday life in Zabrze was one of the main areas of concern. Young people pointed to poor air quality and unpleasant smells from the waste disposal site, as well as the need for cleaner, better-maintained public spaces, with more bins and public toilets. They also wanted to see the city centre become a livelier place, with more opportunities to meet friends and spend time together. Suggestions included more recreational facilities, such as an outdoor swimming pool, and spaces for different interests, from board games and science to theatre. They also highlighted the need for more informal cultural events and outdoor activities.

Education and future opportunities formed the second area of discussion. The young people called for better-equipped school facilities and more practical approaches to learning, with less emphasis on theory alone. They wanted teaching to reflect the needs and interests of students, support individual talents and connect school education more closely with practical experience. Better support for teachers was also part of their vision for improving education.

Transport, safety and housing were equally important to their sense of whether Zabrze could be a place to build a future. The group highlighted the need for better connections between districts, more frequent night services and improved rail connections. They also raised concerns about feeling safe in public spaces. Access to affordable rental housing and the renovation of neglected municipal properties were seen as essential if young people are to be able to start independent lives without feeling that they have to leave the city.

The discussions connected Doughnut Economics with the everyday experiences and aspirations of young residents. They showed that a city where young people want to stay needs to offer more than education and employment. It also needs clean air, welcoming public spaces, places to meet, reliable transport, a sense of safety and affordable homes.

By listening to young people and exploring their priorities, we took another step towards imagining Zabrze in 2064. Their contributions remind us that the future of a city is not only about its infrastructure or economic development, but also about whether people can meet their needs, pursue their interests and see real opportunities for themselves in the place they call home.