WeLead Marks a Year of Professional Growth and Welcomes New Young Leaders
As the second generation of the EU-funded »WeLead: EU Scheme for Young Professionals in the Western Balkans« (WeLead) project approaches the end of an inspiring learning journey, participants recently gathered in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia. This milestone workshop offered a closer look at the evolving digital landscape and its implications for public financial management (PFM) and public administration reform (PAR). It emphasized how digitalization can act as a catalyst for more citizen-centric and efficient governance. It also provided a comprehensive reflection on the key takeaways from the year-long learning program.
During their stay in Kranjska Gora, participants explored how new technologies are changing public administration. They discussed the opportunities and challenges of using digital tools in government, and how public officials can improve their digital skills and resilience. They also looked at how technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and virtual reality can be used in public services. Finally, they talked about how to encourage innovation within government institutions. At the end of the event, participants reflected on their personal and professional growth, shared key lessons from the program, and celebrated their achievements. This final gathering marked the conclusion of a successful year and reinforced their commitment to continued learning, collaboration, and contributing to the EU accession process.
Over the past year, more than 60 young professionals from the Western Balkans have been engaged in the WeLead program—enhancing their leadership skills, deepening their understanding of the EU integration process, and gaining crucial insights into the challenges and opportunities of modern governance. As one generation concludes, another begins. We are looking forward to welcome the third generation of the WeLead project, made up of motivated young professionals who are ready to start their own learning and leadership journey. The upcoming WeConnect: Jumbo Meeting will serve as the launch event for this new generation. Discussions will center around building a joint narrative for consolidating resilience in the Western Balkans and advancing the EU enlargement process.
This year’s WeConnect: Jumbo Meeting will focus on curiosity and empathy as essential leadership traits, encouraging participants to reflect on reconciliation, collaboration, and innovation as key drivers of regional transformation. By connecting the next generation of public administrators and policymakers, the WeLead project continues to foster regional cooperation and support the EU accession process.