A societal change which requires radical transformation

Youth exclusion is one of the most pressing and complex societal challenges we face. It is about far more than just individual journeys; it reflects a welfare system that needs a change of pace if it is to be truly inclusive. As a centre of knowledge and skill for system innovation, KS PRI has mobilised for a collaboration that is larger than what individual municipalities can achieve alone. They seek deep systemic change that ensure that all children and young people are taken seriously, feel a sense of belonging and live in a society that meets their needs. Halogen got involved in “From youth to young adult” to contribute to this radical transformation by building bridges between the public, private and voluntary sectors. 

From systemic mapping to imaginative future visions – with young people in the driving seat

Halogen became an integrated part of the KS PRI team in spring 2024, with a unique focus on making a methodological framework for systemic innovation operational. Our process was based on close collaboration with the broad alliance and, critically, young people themselves. We started with depth interviews with young people and alliance members, resulting in a system map which visualised the complex challenges in the transition to adulthood. 

What made the project special was how we challenged conventional thinking. We actively worked to strengthen “imagination” – the ability to imagine radically different futures. In workshops with young people from Fontenehuset in Asker we created so-called "parallel universes” and “protopias” – realistic, radical visions of the future that can be built and realised through concrete actions. 

The young people were not just informants; they were co-creators and facilitators,helping to inspire the alliance with their unique perspectives. Together we used the metaphor of the “Research and Innovation Ship” to unleash the power of the ecosystem, where all onboard – from leaders to the young people themselves – helped navigate towards a common, inspired destination. 

A solid toolbox and a national narrative for change

Halogen’s role as an extended think tank, consisting of system designers, consultants and policy advisors, provided a valuable space to challenge and explore new working methods. The result is a robust methodological framework and a solid toolbox for collaboration and co-creation. It forms a foundation for KS PRI and the alliance’s continued work on preventing youth exclusion. The project has not only identified solutions, but also contributed to developing new policies and a new national narrative for and with young people, where their dreams and ambitions drive us towards a new reality.