Stuttgart & Cardiff 70th Anniversary Celebrations
Members of St Helens Youth Council recently travelled to Stuttgart, Germany, to take part in the 70th anniversary celebrations of Stuttgart and Cardiff’s Sister City relationship, marking a significant moment of international youth voice and partnership.
During the visit, young people from St Helens had the honour of attending the Stuttgart & Cardiff 70th Anniversary Celebrations, where they joined civic leaders including the Mayor of Stuttgart, the Mayor of Cardiff, members of Cardiff Council and the wider Stuttgart community. A key highlight of the celebrations was taking part in the unveiling of a newly named waterpark, “Cardiff”, recognising the long-standing relationship between the two cities.
The trip offered a rich programme of cultural and educational experiences. Young people explored Stuttgart through visits to the city’s famous Volksfest, the Porsche Museum and the learning centre and gardens at Killesberg Park. They also climbed the Killesberg Tower, taking in panoramic views across the city. Opportunities to learn extended to visiting a local fire station and touring Stuttgart’s football ground, offering insight into services and culture in a different country.
A particularly meaningful part of the visit was time spent with Stuttgart Youth Council, including at Kinder- und Jugendhaus Stammheim, where young people connected, shared ideas and built friendships. These moments highlighted the power of youth voice beyond borders and the shared passion young people have for creating change in their communities.
The visit also included a unique and memorable send-off, with the group receiving a special return service to the airport, rounding off what was an incredible experience from start to finish.
This international visit has not only strengthened relationships between youth councils but has also inspired new ideas and perspectives that young people will bring back to continue making a difference in St Helens.
St Helens Youth Council would like to thank Stuttgart Youth Council and all partners involved for their warm welcome and for making the visit such a meaningful and impactful experience.