Culture, Arts & Sports (CAS) can address major global challenges – such as conflict prevention and resolution, social integration, prevention of violent extremism, and protection of cultural heritage. CAS is also a key vector for collaboration between The Youth Café and it’s partners, building bridges, as outlined in the AU Abidjan Summit Declaration (2017). CAS can contribute to socio-economic stability, sustainable development and economic growth, through cultural entrepreneurship; the culture and creative arts industry is indeed considered to be one of the fastest growing sectors of the world economy, with an estimated growth rate of 7% of the global GDP. The 2007 Africa Strategy (JAES) proposes a stronger cultural cooperation. A budget of EUR 40 million was allocated under the European Development Fund to support the contribution of cultural industries to the socio-economic development of ACP countries. However, the sector's potential deserves to be further harnessed, through visible initiatives that can also help connect young people to opportunities (financing, networks, and necessary skills to build their careers).
Our objectives and work on Culture, Arts & Sports (CAS):
To support young sports and creative professionals, by promoting collaboration and enabling access to investment, capacity building and opportunities.
Existing and emerging CAS projects and creations are promoted, with attention to indigenous forms of CAS and showing the potential of CAS in building bridges between African & the rest of the world.
Networks of young CAS professionals in Africa and internationally are formed and reinforced through cultural exchanges and intercultural dialogues.
Capacities of young CAS professionals are built, through skills development and empowerment activities.
Innovative means of investment and financial support for the creative sector are promoted.
Socio-economic benefits of the creative industry and of CAS are stimulated.
Our activities and aspirations on Culture, Arts & Sports
Organizing major multifaceted events/festivals ("CAStivals"), visible and attractive for young people, involving stakeholders of selected regions, with cultural, art and sport events, creations, competitions and/or innovations, networking, etc.;
Developing a digital network/platform compiling opportunities for CAS professionals from Africa and other continents (directory of CAS professionals, support opportunities, capacity-building, calls for selection);
Suggesting innovative proposals to enhance capacity and opportunities for CAS professionals (e.g. an Afro-European Cultural Label, …).