Are you a young leader interested in how artificial intelligence algorithms are shaping what we see, hear and believe online?
Are you interested in connecting with peers and generating solutions to increase digital agency and address disinformation?
The British Council in partnership with the Forum Apulum and Funky Citizens are pleased to invite you to participate in a two-day training programme to explore media literacy and generate solutions to address misinformation and disinformation.
We are inviting young people aged between 18 and 35 who are passionate about leading change to work together in interdisciplinary teams and create solutions on how disinformation can be addressed. We are aiming to bring together emerging changemakers to critically engage with the challenges and opportunities AI presents in media, public discourse, and civic life.
The ideathon will take place on 5-6 November at Princely Palace of Alba Iulia (4 Militari Street, Alba Iulia), as part of CivicON Festival.
This event is part of British Council’s Digital Citizens programme, delivered in 2026 in partnership with Forum Apulum, as part of CivicON Festival, Funky Citizens and ThinkYoung.
What’s the training about?
Artificial intelligence is transforming how we access, share, and interpret information. This training will help you:
- Understand how AI influences media and public opinion
- Identify bias, misinformation, and manipulation online
- Reflect on your own digital habits and leadership role
- Explore ethical questions around privacy, moderation, and online behaviour
- Collaborate on ideas and tools for responsible media engagement
During the training participants will form teams and receive input from trainers from Think Young. Teams will then work on a practical solution on the topic of disinformation. There will be a selection process to choose the best idea, and the winning team will be awarded with a study visit to the UK.
Who is it for?
We’re inviting young people aged 18-35 who are:
- Curious about media, technology, and civic engagement
- Active in their communities, studies, or professional fields
- Motivated to learn, collaborate, and lead change
No prior expertise in AI or media literacy is required–just an appetite to engage and grow. We are looking for people with diverse backgrounds. Mentors from Funky Citizens will support each team through the process.
What is in it for you?
- Two and a half creative days, where you will have the chance to meet new people, learn more about media and information and apply your knowledge to work in teams and create solutions to combat disinformation.
- Learn from leading experts in media and information
- Develop practical skills for digital leadership
- The opportunity to win a study visit to the UK in 2027 and meet with other teams from similar events in Europe
- The opportunity to join a forward-thinking network shaping the future of media and technology
- Access to resources and opportunities for future development
- Food and coffee to energise you.
Please note that by participating in the Ideathon, you will also have access to a range of events taking place in Alba Iulia as part of the CivicON Festival.
What is required
Participants should:
- have a good understanding of English as the event will be in English
- bring their personal laptops and mobile phones
- be able to fully attend all days of the event
You will be sent pre-event instructions to prepare.
Programme
- Wednesday, 4 November – Arrival / travel to Alba Iulia (for participants travelling from outside Alba Iulia)
- Thursday, 5 November – Ideathon (Day 1)
- Friday, 6 November – Ideathon (Day 2)
- Saturday, 7 November – Interactive Q&A and workshop session on AI Ethics in Media led by ThinkYoung, followed by departure
Please note that participants will be expected to attend both Ideathon days (5-6 November). Participants will also be invited to take part in the interactive Q&A and workshop session on AI Ethics in Media, led by ThinkYoung, on 7 November, as part of the CivicON Festival programme.
Lunch breaks, coffee, snacks and refreshments will be provided throughout the two days and a half of the event.
How to apply
To take part in the ideathon, complete the online application form by Sunday, 18 October 2025 (23:59 Romania time).
Please note that places are limited. We will notify successful applicants by Monday, 26 October.
Information
For more information, please contact roprojects@britishcouncil.org.