Are you passionate about youth empowerment, social inclusion, and the transformative power of sport? Do you want to promote positive change across the Western Balkans? The Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) and GIZ invite you to be part of an exciting international experience through the Sport for Development (S4D) Instructor Training – 3rd Edition!
In 2025, as the world continues to navigate social challenges and foster regional cooperation, Sport for Development is creating new opportunities for youth to build bridges through teamwork, leadership, and inclusion. With sport as a universal language, this initiative empowers individuals to drive positive change in their communities, using play and physical activity as tools for social cohesion and peace.
Through this innovative training, RYCO, together with GIZ and regional partners, brings its mission to life by equipping young professionals with practical skills and knowledge to implement Sport for Development approaches. Together, we are creating a future where sport is not just a game, but a force for social progress.
This call is looking for passionate individuals from across the Western Balkans to join this impactful journey and become multipliers of change in their communities. If selected, you will take part in an inspiring, hands-on training experience alongside peers who share your vision for youth empowerment and social inclusion.
Training Details:
The program consists of two interactive training modules:
- Part I: April 1–5, 2025, in Mavrovo (tbc.), North Macedonia
- Part II: June 10–15, 2025, in Prizren (tbc.), Kosovo*
Together, participants will explore how to use sports to strengthen social bonds, promote equality, and foster youth development, while gaining tools to implement these methods in real-life settings.
Throughout the training, you’ll:
- Learn how to design and lead Sport for Development sessions.
- Connect with fellow coaches, youth workers, and educators from the region.
- Build strategies to use sport as a platform for social change.
- Share knowledge and best practices for regional collaboration.
And the best part? Travel, accommodation, and health insurance are fully funded!
Are you eligible to apply?
We’re looking for applicants who are:
- Holding a passport of one of the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia).
- Active as a sport coach, social worker, youth worker, or physical education teacher (or have relevant experience).
- Proficient in English (B2 level or higher).
- Committed to participating in both parts of the training.
- Passionate about using sport as a tool for youth empowerment and social inclusion.
- Open to regional cooperation and peer learning.
Previous experience in Sport for Development is an asset but not required!
Apply now!
If you’re ready to make a difference, submit your application by March 12, 2025, to the following emails with the subject “S4D Instructor Training – 3rd Edition”:
To apply, complete the APPLICATION FORM and send it to vladimir.gjorgjevski@rycowb.org and afrim.iljazi@giz.de
Successful candidates will receive full support for participation, including preparation guidance and travel arrangements.
Join us in turning sport into a movement for peace, equality, and youth empowerment across the Western Balkans!
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.