The FYI-R workshop in Lagkadas, supported by InfinityGreece, explored how rural youth envision the future of employment.
Participants — predominantly young women — expressed a strong desire for flexible, purpose-driven careers that allow them to remain in their communities while pursuing professional growth. They emphasised the importance of remote and hybrid work models, especially in digital, creative, and knowledge-based sectors, as a way to decentralise employment and revitalise rural areas.
Youth viewed early career stages as a time for exploration, valuing workplace culture, creativity, and personal development over salary.
However, they acknowledged the growing importance of financial stability over time, though their salary expectations remained modest — reflecting the long-term impact of Greece’s economic crisis.
Entrepreneurship, particularly in digital media, local services, and agri-innovation, was seen as a promising path, provided there is access to funding, mentorship, and infrastructure. Looking ahead, participants predicted a shift toward non-linear, purpose-driven careers shaped by digitalisation, AI, and evolving skill demands.
They anticipated a growing divide between high-skill digital jobs and declining manual roles, raising concerns about exclusion for those lacking digital access or education. While they welcomed the rise of soft skills and non-formal learning, they also feared the instability of gig work, the pressure to constantly upskill, and the potential for AI to erode creativity and deepen inequality.
To remain in their region, youth identified key enablers: stable internet, co-working spaces, microfunding, and training in digital and soft skills. They highlighted the value of non-formal education and local mentorship networks, as well as the relational strength of rural communities.
However, limited cultural offerings, poor transport, and narrow professional networks still push some to consider leaving. Ultimately, youth called for structural investment and inclusive policies that empower them to choose their futures freely—whether staying or moving—based on aspiration, not necessity.
Participants — predominantly young women — expressed a strong desire for flexible, purpose-driven careers that allow them to remain in their communities while pursuing professional growth. They emphasised the importance of remote and hybrid work models, especially in digital, creative, and knowledge-based sectors, as a way to decentralise employment and revitalise rural areas.
Youth viewed early career stages as a time for exploration, valuing workplace culture, creativity, and personal development over salary.
However, they acknowledged the growing importance of financial stability over time, though their salary expectations remained modest — reflecting the long-term impact of Greece’s economic crisis.
Entrepreneurship, particularly in digital media, local services, and agri-innovation, was seen as a promising path, provided there is access to funding, mentorship, and infrastructure. Looking ahead, participants predicted a shift toward non-linear, purpose-driven careers shaped by digitalisation, AI, and evolving skill demands.
They anticipated a growing divide between high-skill digital jobs and declining manual roles, raising concerns about exclusion for those lacking digital access or education. While they welcomed the rise of soft skills and non-formal learning, they also feared the instability of gig work, the pressure to constantly upskill, and the potential for AI to erode creativity and deepen inequality.
To remain in their region, youth identified key enablers: stable internet, co-working spaces, microfunding, and training in digital and soft skills. They highlighted the value of non-formal education and local mentorship networks, as well as the relational strength of rural communities.
However, limited cultural offerings, poor transport, and narrow professional networks still push some to consider leaving. Ultimately, youth called for structural investment and inclusive policies that empower them to choose their futures freely—whether staying or moving—based on aspiration, not necessity.
