Co-creating digital spaces with and for young voices.
The Youth and Media Lab is an international hub for participatory research and policy innovation that empowers young people to co-create a safer, fairer, and more inclusive digital world.
The Youth and Media Lab brings together youth (ages 12–18) from around the globe with researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers to explore and co-create responses to digital challenges.
Rooted in participatory, interdisciplinary research, the Lab empowers young voices, shapes policy, and designs meaningful interventions for a youth-centered digital future.
Why we exist
Digital environments increasingly shape how young people live, learn, and connect, but their voices are often underrepresented in decisions that affect their digital lives.
The Lab exists to change that by making youth not just subjects of research, but co-creators of solutions.
How we work
The Lab works through participatory, evidence-based research methods that actively involve young people alongside experts from psychology, media studies, law, education, and more. It translates insights into practical outputs for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders, while running global, interdisciplinary projects that ensure real-world impact.
What we do
The Lab develops:
- Research & Tools: Participatory studies and open-source materials on digital safety, rights, and agency.
- Global Collaborations: Projects like Frontiers in Digital Child Safety (with TUM, Harvard, and Apple support) and AI Youth Work Navigator (with partners across Europe).
- Learning Platforms: Accessible learning materials and youth-centered research formats that drive awareness and innovation.
How to get engaged
Join our community, collaborate on projects or contribute your expertise! For more information contact camila.hidalgo@tum.de .
