The world is going through a dramatic period marked by deep tensions that are affecting all of humanity. We are facing a combination of multiple and interdependent global crises. These situations have a particularly strong impact on the lives of young people. More than ever, young people need spaces to express themselves, come together, share their hopes, and discover, through the actions of other young people, signs of a future and of transformation.
It is in this context that the KAJ (YCW Flanders), as part of the celebrations of the centenary of the YCW, took the initiative to organize an international and intercultural youth festival, which took place in Belgium on May 2-3, 2025. The Bautershof estate in Sint-Truiden was the exclusive venue chosen to host this celebration.
May 2 – Welcome Reception and VIVA KAJ Party
On May 2, the festival site welcomed many members of the KAJ, the international delegation present in Belgium for the centenary activities, as well as a dozen partners. Once the sleeping bags were set up, the evening kicked off with a festive and fraternal atmosphere and the VIVA KAJ PARTY. Several DJs who are members of KAJ—both past and present—got the dance floor pumping: kudos to DJ RoCoR, DJ Miles, and DJ TopsyTurvy! The party was a reflection of the movement: diverse, lively, inclusive, with participants from all over the world.
May 3 – Jocists' Day
On the morning of May 3, the young people were up again, ready to experience the Jocists' Day. The site was expanded to accommodate a KAJ market featuring various activities, including a replica of the Laeken exhibition. The program also included several highlights: the first screening of a film on the history of the Quebec YCW; a photo exhibition on the International IYCW Councils 1957-2022; a stand for the "Clean Clothes Campaign" organized by World Solidarity (WSM); and many other stands run by various national and international sections.
The day was also open to the general public: former activists, partners, supporters, families—all were welcome. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with many former YCW members who joined the international delegation and shared their memories and commitment with the younger generations.
Institutional time and testimonials
The afternoon was marked by a solemn moment to highlight the movement's 100th anniversary. Several prominent figures took the floor, including Ben Rubbrecht, president of the KAJ; Melissa Depraetere, minister; Gert Stas, city councilor; Peter Wouters, union representative; Caro Moch, European coordinator; and Guy Tordeur, former activist of the KAJ and ACV.
Each in their own way praised the strength, relevance and continuity of the YCW. Together, their speeches rekindled the flame and gave new impetus to build the next 100 years!
Rain, encounters, and concerts
A brief rain shower provided a welcome break, allowing everyone to rest, visit the exhibitions, or simply catch up with old friends and meet new ones from Belgium and elsewhere. But at 4 p.m., despite the weather, the big tent exploded with joy and energy thanks to live performances by the bands MiseEnScene, Sister May, and Blue Dawn Live. An unforgettable atmosphere, a dance floor once again packed to the brim, smiles everywhere.
A weekend ending filled with hope
After a weekend full of excitement, memories, and new encounters, everyone gathered for a final convivial breakfast before setting off again—by bus or car—to return to their daily lives.
Filled with energy and inspiration, the young YCW members left more motivated than ever to continue the program of exchanges, debates, and public activities that followed this great festival.
A huge thank you to the KAJ (YCW Flanders) for this memorable initiative and to all the young people from around the world who participated!
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