About us
The people behind Elysium+
A group of young, motivated people who build the projects, initiatives and activities that shape the network. Each member brings unique skills — together we make it work. We're a feminist, queer-inclusive network by design, not by accident — see our Equity Workplan for what that means in practice.
Our story
Elysium+ began as a school initiative in 2020 and grew into a registered NGO in Ukraine in 2025. From those first steps the mission has stayed the same: to promote European values, intercultural dialogue, civic engagement and personal development among young people.
Today Elysium+ is a European network with branches in Ukraine, Poland, Italy and Germany — each responding to young people in its own context while sharing partners, values and a common purpose.
Looking for our previous website? You can still browse an archived copy at old.elysium.ngo.
Meet the team
The people building Elysium+
Anton Rubanenko
Founder & Project Manager
Founder of Elysium+ and a youth activist focused on democracy, human rights and cultural exchange. He has joined more than 20 Erasmus+ projects and visited 40+ countries, building the partnerships that empower young people across Europe.
Jonas Hanke
Co-founder & Project manager
Co-founder with a passion for travel, media and cultural discovery, and managing director of the German branch, Astra. Inspired by brutalist architecture, he connects culture, design and youth engagement — and keeps the network's digital infrastructure running.
Ergün Eraslan
Associate Member
Youth activist with a background in mechanical engineering. Passionate about equality, innovation and cultural exchange, he has taken part in initiatives addressing discrimination and promoting inclusion.
Nourhan Said
Associate Member
U.S. Department of State alumna who served with a child-focused organisation in the United States. Her research focuses on migration, gender and refugee studies — the intersection of mobility, protection frameworks and social policy.
Frequently asked
What is Elysium+?
Elysium+ is a youth-focused non-profit network that creates opportunities for young people to learn, travel and grow through international mobility and non-formal education. We work across Europe with partners, youth workers and organisations to support inclusion, creativity, digital development and intercultural understanding.
Do I need experience to join your projects?
No. Most projects are designed for beginners and for young people taking part in international activities for the first time. What matters most is motivation, openness and the desire to learn. Some specialised trainings have specific requirements, which we always indicate in advance.
How is Elysium+ funded?
Through international project grants — especially Erasmus+ — partnerships with European organisations, and support from local and international collaborators. Community contributions help too; see the Support Us page for ways to help.
How can I contribute?
Beyond donations, you can volunteer, share your skills, or help spread the word about our work. We welcome people interested in online events, creative projects, workshops and digital activities. If you have an idea, we're always open to new proposals.