Rome, Italy | 23–24 March 2026
The HASHT-AG – From Heritage to Hashtag: Youth, AI and Cultural Expression project officially began its exciting 36-month journey with a successful Kick-Off Meeting held in Rome on 23–24 March 2026.
Bringing together partners from Italy, Spain, Greece, Jordan, Egypt, and Lebanon, the meeting marked the start of a dynamic international collaboration dedicated to empowering young people through digital innovation, intercultural dialogue, and creative expression.
Over two inspiring days, project partners gathered to establish a common vision, strengthen cooperation, and lay the foundations for the activities that will shape the project over the next three years. The discussions focused on how emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), can support young people in exploring, interpreting, and sharing their cultural heritage through innovative forms of digital storytelling.
The consortium worked collaboratively to define the project’s methodology, clarify roles and responsibilities, and develop a comprehensive roadmap for implementation. Partners also explored the upcoming programme of virtual exchanges, co-creation laboratories, and learning activities that will engage young people and youth workers across the Euro-Mediterranean region.
A central theme of the meeting was the role of cultural identity in today’s digital world. Through open dialogue and knowledge exchange, participants reflected on how heritage can be transformed into contemporary digital narratives, allowing young people to connect with their roots while developing future-oriented digital skills.
The Kick-Off Meeting provided an important opportunity for partners to share experiences, exchange good practices, and build meaningful relationships that will support effective collaboration throughout the project’s lifetime. The diverse perspectives represented within the partnership highlighted the richness of intercultural cooperation and reinforced the project’s commitment to inclusion, participation, and mutual understanding.
As HASHT-AG moves forward, young people will have the opportunity to engage with their cultural heritage in new and creative ways, using AI-powered tools, digital media, and storytelling techniques to transform local stories into powerful digital expressions. By combining heritage, technology, and youth participation, the project aims to foster creativity, strengthen intercultural connections, and encourage active citizenship across the region.
The Rome Kick-Off Meeting marked the first step of an ambitious journey where tradition meets innovation, and where heritage becomes a source of inspiration for digital creativity.
We look forward to sharing the next milestones, activities, and achievements of the HASHT-AG community as we continue turning heritage into hashtags.
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