Encouraging Interactive Session to Foster Discussion Among Youth
Young Generations Shape the Future of Pforzheim City Centre
In a bid to engage the underrepresented Generation Y and Z in local politics and urban planning, the Wirtschaft und Stadtmarketing Pforzheim (WSP) hosted a participation workshop. The event, an initiative by the WSP, aimed to tap into the creative energy of these generations and foster an "open dialogue between the generations."
The workshop, which did not provide any contact or phone information, saw around 40 young people aged 20 to 32 participate. These participants were selected by the PF-Next team based on demographic characteristics and interests. Generation Y, comprising individuals born between 1981 and 1996, and Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, were the focus of the event.
During the workshop, the participants were divided into groups and developed ideas and solutions for city-relevant themes, including digitization and integration. Their results are intended to flow into "further planning processes" and serve as "inspiration for future urban development projects."
While there is no explicit information on Generation Y and Z engagement in Pforzheim urban projects from the provided results, the Hellerhöfe district, a new residential project that started construction in July 2025, offers a glimpse into the city's commitment to innovative and sustainable urban development. The Hellerhöfe district, which features mixed residential uses with daycare and retail spaces, could appeal to younger generations. However, direct mention of Generation Y/Z involvement in the project is not found.
The workshop also included an Instagram live stream, allowing participants outside the workshop to contribute comments and suggestions. Michael Hertl, head of the inner-city development department at the Eigenbetrieb Wirtschaft and Stadtmarketing Pforzheim, expressed that the young participants' perspectives and ideas would make a significant contribution to shaping a livable Pforzheim city centre.
The results of this workshop are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Pforzheim, encouraging a more inclusive and youth-oriented approach to urban planning and development.
The participants' ideas and solutions from the workshop will likely influence the city's digitization and integration plans, reflecting their voices in shaping the future lifestyle of Pforzheim. The Pforzheim city centre's proposed projects, such as the Hellerhöfe district integrating residential, daycare, and retail spaces, could resonate with younger generations and lead to a transformative home-and-garden experience within the city.
