Mija Bezgovšek

Around the world, youth media labs—spaces where young people experiment with video, podcasting, photography, and digital storytelling—are becoming essential for building media literacy and civic engagement. These labs help young creators develop critical thinking skills, understand journalistic ethics, and learn how to communicate responsibly in a highly digital society.

Beyond technical skills, youth media labs nurture confidence. They give teenagers and young adults the opportunity to explore topics such as identity, community issues, activism, and cultural diversity through their own lens. This participatory approach helps counter stereotypes by ensuring that stories are produced by those who live them.

However, educators and facilitators must guide participants carefully. Young creators need support in understanding privacy concerns, responsible sharing, consent, copyright, and the importance of verifying information. Ethical mentorship ensures that creative storytelling does not unintentionally cause harm.

Ultimately, youth media labs show that journalism is not limited to professionals—it is a tool for empowerment and social connection. When young people learn to tell stories ethically and creatively, they become active participants in shaping the media landscape, not just passive consumers.