The aim of the conference is to perceive and create futures through the eyes of today’s youth, adults and decision makers for the young people of the future. The course of a youth’s life, both today and toward the future covers an entire spectrum of reality. Focusing on faith in young people, their ability and determination to build an inevitably different and in many ways an improved world for us all to live in is the focal point of this conference. The conference is organized in association with the Finland Futures Academy and the Finnish Youth Research Network. The “To Be Young” conference marks Finland Futures Research Centre’s 14th Annual International Conference and its 20th Anniversary celebrating twenty years of quality academic research. TOPICS OF INTEREST Conference themes include but are not restricted to*: - Power and Impact of Different Age Groups on the Future - Making the Future: Creativity, Continuity and Effect of Marginal Phenomen - Effect of Today’s Phenomena in Youth on the Future - Young People, Work and Participation in Society - Theoretical and Methodological Development in Building Futures - Case Studies WHO SHOULD ATTEND? - Youth Researchers - Futurists (practicioners, professionals and students) - Experts and Specialists in Youth Work - Public Officials, (decision-makers at local/national/international level) - Teachers - Representatives from Youth Organisations - Journalists (social media, bloggers, trend researchers and experts) - Mentors and Coaches Working with Children (sport, art, hobbies etc.) IMPORTANT DETAILS Call for Papers: November 2011 Conference Date: June 6-8th , 2012 Location: Sigyn Hall, Turku, Finland Further Enquirees: futuresconference2012@utu.fi