This year's competition, organised for children and young people under the age of 18, provided a vibrant platform for participants to dive into the exploration of their local and European heritage. Through activities organized in two age categories—6-11 and 11-17 years old—participants were encouraged to identify and present the most interesting aspects of their heritage. Whether it be through a captivating video, a stunning photograph, a detailed painting, or an expressive drawing, accompanied by descriptions, the creativity displayed has been nothing short of extraordinary.

The Young European Heritage Makers competition stands as a beacon of light for the future of heritage protection and promotion. It is designed to foster a deep understanding of the European dimension of local heritage, celebrate creative interpretations, and ultimately, bring future #HeritageMakers into the limelight, connecting them with their peers across Europe. The submissions have brilliantly reflected various facets of European heritage, from tangible monuments and natural landscapes to intangible traditions shared by communities.

We wish to express our deepest gratitude and admiration for all the works submitted. The passion, creativity, and thoughtfulness imbued in each piece underscore the critical role that children and young people play in the stewardship and celebration of our shared heritage.

The selection process at the national level has concluded, with two winners from each participating country—one from each age category—being chosen. These national winners are now being evaluated at the European level by a panel of distinguished judges. We eagerly anticipate announcing the selected works on the European level soon. The chosen entrants in the 11-17 age group will be invited to a visit to Strasbourg in September 2024, where they will have the opportunity to connect with other young heritage makers and share their experiences.

As we look forward to this exciting phase, we remain committed to our mission of engaging young people in Europe in the preservation and promotion of our rich and diverse heritage. The Young European Heritage Makers competition is not just a contest; it is a movement towards a more inclusive, connected, and culturally rich Europe.

Stay tuned for the announcement of the European-level winners and join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of these young heritage enthusiasts. Their contributions are not just submissions; they are the building blocks of a shared European future, rich in diversity, understanding, and respect.

For more information and updates, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and visit the Young European Heritage Makers page.