With the third and final training module in Krakow, the European EZA „Young Leaders” Course has come to a successful conclusion. Over the course of a year, 15 committed young representatives of workers’ organisations from Ukraine, Albania, Poland and Serbia took part in the comprehensive training programme and successfully completed all three modules.
The programme was organised by the European Meeting Centre – Nowy Staw Foundation (EDS-FNS) in collaboration with the European Centre for Workers’ Questions (EZA) and the Ignatianum University in Krakow, and aims to prepare the next generation of European multipliers in trade unions for their future leadership roles. The focus was on developing leadership, communication and organisational skills, as well as strengthening a values-based understanding of leadership based on Christian social teaching. Participants were encouraged to develop their own identity as leaders, to reflect on their personal values and those of their organisations, and to use these as the basis for their actions.
The final module took place in Krakow from 27 to 31 May 2026. The content centred on the themes of value-based leadership, Christian social teaching, public communication, media appearances and the development of a personal leadership style. In workshops, participants worked on their skills in public speaking, media communication and strategic leadership planning, amongst other things. Particular emphasis was placed on linking personal values with the demands of modern trade union work.
The ceremonial highlight was the presentation of the certificates of completion. As part of the final evaluation, EZA’s General Secretary, Sigrid Schraml, presented all 15 graduates with an official certificate – in English as well as in their respective native languages. This recognised not only their successful participation in the entire training programme, but also the exceptional commitment of the young trade union representatives, who had actively worked on their personal and professional development.
The European nature of the programme facilitated an intensive exchange between participants from various European countries. Different experiences and perspectives from trade union practice enriched the discussions and, at the same time, strengthened the European network of young employee representatives. This cross-border dialogue makes an important contribution to strengthening European social dialogue and to the future viability of employee organisations in Europe.
EZA and its partner organisations warmly congratulate all graduates on successfully completing the programme and look forward to supporting them on their future path as future leaders in European workers’ organisations.