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Download to PDF Faces of Local Youth Work: Sebastian Baesan – Program Manager of Alba Iulia Youth Capital of Romania 2026

Faces of Local Youth Work: Sebastian Baesan – Program Manager of Alba Iulia Youth Capital of Romania 2026

18/12/2025 - Faces of EGL

Sebastian Băeșan is a professional dedicated to community development and the youth sector in Alba Iulia, with years of experience in local public administration and project management. During the year of 2026, Sebastian will hold a pivotal role in revitalizing the city’s youth ecosystem as the Program Manager for “Alba Iulia – Youth Capital of Romania 2026”. The program is set as a large municipal and national initiative to boost youth engagement and sense of community development from a perspective of youth. In this role, Sebastian will also coordinate a big pool of volunteers who will be engaged throughout the year.

At the crossroads of youth leadership, public administration, and European cooperation, Sebastian is a connector between institutions and young people. His work is driven by a belief that when youth are trusted, informed, and involved, cities come alive.

This belief took shape most visibly when Sebastian coordinated the team of Alba Iulia the title of Youth Capital of Romania 2026. Behind the title lies months of strategic thinking, dialogue, and bridge-building. As the program’s strategic lead, he now steers collaboration between the local administration, NGOs, and young people themselves—transforming ambition into a shared vision for the city’s future.

Inside Alba Iulia City Hall, Sebastian works at the heart of civic life. As a Counselor and coordinator of the Volunteer Resource Center, he nurtures a culture of participation and recognition. From mobilizing volunteers to organizing landmark moments like the Alba Iulia Volunteer Gala, his work celebrates those who quietly shape their community through action, generosity, and care.

Beyond the local level, Sebastian’s impact stretches across borders. As a Eurodesk Multiplier, he opens doors to European opportunities for young people, translating complex systems into accessible pathways. He also coordinates Giving Tuesday at national level, championing solidarity and philanthropy as everyday practices.

His European engagement continues through the URBACT network, where he contributes to forward-looking projects on digitalization and urban policy, such as Residents of the Future. Here, Sebastian works on one of today’s most pressing challenges: how cities can remain vibrant, inclusive, and attractive to young people in the face of depopulation.

Across all these roles, a clear thread runs through Sebastian’s journey—connecting people, ideas, and institutions to build cities where young voices don’t just participate, but shape their future. His personal mission is to create an inclusive and dynamic environment in Alba Iulia, focusing on youth empowerment, digitalization, and active civic participation.

Check out the interview with Sebastian about the youth-led civic engagement in Alba Iulia here.

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