Our initiative to organize a careleavers event parallel to the 35th FICE Conference in Split is not an isolated endeavor but a continuation of a rich history of care leavers' advocacy in the past of FICE. The roots of our efforts trace back to the steadfast declarations made by care leavers over the years.

In 2006, the voices of young individuals resonated strongly in the Declaration of Sarajevo, an impactful moment during which care experienced youth emphasized the need for improved support beyond the age of 18. This declaration, born from the FICE tradition of youth programs, planted the seeds for ongoing advocacy.

The momentum continued in 2016 at the FICE Conference in Vienna, where care leavers established standards that would shape the discourse on careleaving. Wolfgang Schroer (Germany), Varda Mann (Canada), and Adrian van Breda's (South Africa) presentation during the FICE Conference in Tel Aviv in 2019 further enriched the dialogue, bringing academic insights and real-world experiences to the forefront and showcasing all exisiting careleavers networks around the globe.

The global landscape became the stage for care leavers to share their key takeaways during the online Careleavers Convention in 2020. Through digital platforms, care leavers united to present their perspectives, cementing the importance of a collaborative and supportive community.

As we embark on this journey in Split, our endeavors align with and build upon these foundational statements and milestones. The youth event aims not only to echo the sentiments expressed over the years but to propel the conversation forward. We carry the legacy of care leavers' advocacy, leveraging it to create a dynamic and empowering space during the 35th FICE Conference.

The upcoming event is not merely a standalone initiative but a chapter in an ongoing narrative, shaped by the resilience, insights, and determination of care leavers who have paved the way for improved support and understanding beyond the age of 18. Together, we continue the journey towards a future where care leavers thrive, supported by a global network rooted in shared experiences and a commitment to positive change.

We raised already 10.000 euro with individual fundraising actions, but need 5.000 more to be sure we will all be able to travel to Split!