Inspired by Social Innovation i Norr 2026

Last week, the Creative Crowd team had the opportunity to participate in Social Innovation i Norr in Skellefteå - a day that left us inspired, energized, and optimistic about the future.

The event brought together representatives from academia, the public sector, civil society, and innovative organizations to explore how we can create better opportunities and brighter futures for children and young people. Throughout the day, discussions centered on youth engagement, inclusion, participation, and building communities where young people feel seen, heard, and empowered.

One theme that resonated strongly with us was the growing recognition of gaming and esports as powerful tools for engagement, community building, and social inclusion.

At Creative Crowd, through our Games for Impact initiatives, we see every day how games can create meaningful opportunities for young people. Gaming is far more than entertainment - it provides spaces where individuals can connect, collaborate, build confidence, develop skills, and find a sense of belonging. By meeting young people where they already spend their time, games become an effective platform for participation, learning, and positive social impact.

It was encouraging to hear perspectives from across sectors that align closely with our own experiences and ambitions. The conversations reinforced the importance of embracing new approaches to youth engagement and recognizing the value that digital communities can bring to society.

The day concluded with an inspiring keynote featuring Stig "Stigge" Bäckman, Marx Mukaru, and Nasir Sarrs. Their conversation highlighted the importance of intergenerational dialogue, inclusion, social engagement, and maintaining belief in the future. Their authenticity, humor, and shared commitment to creating positive change provided a memorable ending to an exceptional event.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the organizers, speakers, and everyone we had the pleasure of meeting throughout the day. The insights, conversations, and new connections made the event truly valuable.

As we continue our work in Games for Impact, we look forward to building on these discussions and collaborating with others who share a vision of empowering young people and strengthening communities through innovation, inclusion, and meaningful engagement.