🎮 Welcome to Gamer-Con!
Gamer-Con is a European project that explores how video games can support the social inclusion, well-being, and personal development of young people aged 18 to 25. We aim to reach those who feel disconnected or uncertain about their future — and create meaningful spaces for connection, expression, and growth.
Through creative and inclusive gaming events, Gamer-Con builds bridges between young people and youth workers, helping both groups explore the benefits of gaming as a tool for communication, community, and emotional support.
🎯 What will we do?
- 🎮 Poll young people across Iceland, Spain, and Ireland to learn what games they love and how they feel about their current life situation.
- 🕹️ Host weekly gaming events for two months in each country, creating safe and playful spaces for youth to connect and share.
- 💬 Encourage mental health conversations through “embedded well-being” — blending game sessions with guided reflection and open dialogue.
- 📘 Publish a practical guidebook for youth workers with strategies and tools to use gaming for mental health support.
💡 Why it matters
Across Europe, loneliness and anxiety affect millions of young people — especially those navigating uncertain life transitions. Gamer-Con responds to this challenge with innovation and empathy, using games as a springboard for emotional resilience and community-building.
🌍 Who’s behind Gamer-Con?
The project is led by RÍSÍ (Icelandic Esports Association), in partnership with Backslash (Spain) and UMT (Ireland). Together, we combine expertise in e-sports, digital media, and youth work to design an engaging and impactful experience for young people.
🕹️ Because sometimes, the best way to talk about life... is by playing.
