European Self-Advocates and Their Teachers to Meet in Brussels for a Celebration of Progress, Independence, and Inclusion

Brussels, 13–15 May 2025 – We are excited to announce that from May 13–15, 2025, self-advocates with Down syndrome and their social and youth worker teachers from across Europe will come together in Brussels to celebrate the achievements of the European Self-Advocacy Project.

Over the past year, teams in nine countries have been working hard to deliver our four-part self-advocacy training. Now, participants—whether they led the sessions or took part as students—will meet their peers from other countries to exchange experiences, share stories, and reflect on how the training has helped them become more independent and confident in their everyday lives.

On May 13, we’ll kick things off with an Intercultural Evening at the Hungarian Cultural Centre, where each country team will share music, food, and traditions in a relaxed, celebratory setting.

On May 14, the main event takes place at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). From 10:00 to 13:00, self-advocates will take the stage to talk about what they’ve learned, what challenges they overcame, and how they are using their new skills to speak up for themselves and others. The conference will be held in nine languages to make sure everyone can follow along.

During the break, we’ll host a Poster Walk featuring visual highlights from each country’s training sessions. Participants and guests will be able to walk around, view the posters, and talk directly to the people behind them. It’s a great opportunity to learn from each other and celebrate what’s been achieved.

In the afternoon, attendees can join cultural visits around Brussels, and at 17:00 we’ll gather for a Cocktail Reception at the European Parliament (MEP Salon). This special event is hosted by Mr. Alexander Matthew Agius Saliba, Member of the European Parliament and Co-Chair of the Disability Intergroup. The reception will bring together MEPs, self-advocates, and key stakeholders to reflect on the impact of the project and explore how to expand this training across Europe.

Finally, on May 15, each national team will hold individual meetings with Members of the European Parliament, where self-advocates will present their experiences and demands directly to policymakers. These meetings are a chance for participants to put their new skills into action and have their voices heard at the EU level.

This Brussels event is a powerful milestone in our project. It’s not just a celebration of what’s been done—it’s a moment to dream bigger, push further, and show that when self-advocates and their supporters work together, real change is possible.

Location: Brussels, Belgium
Dates: May 13–15, 2025
Co-Funded by Erasmus+ and coordinated by EU for Trisomy 21