YMCA Europe met with Digital Twinners (InformAR and TwaanLab), to explore how immersive technologies and digital twin solutions could support the development of its Digital Hub network across Europe.
The exchange focused on practical applications rather than technology trends. Digital twins created through platforms such as Matterport can allow YMCA locations to be virtually accessible to partners, donors and beneficiaries. This has potential value for transparency, fundraising presentations, remote onboarding and cross-border collaboration.
Augmented and interactive digital layers were also discussed as tools to:
- enhance training environments
- create hybrid learning experiences
- support remote participation for movements with limited travel capacity
- document and share best practices across countries
For a network operating across the continent, accessibility and standardisation are constant challenges. The conversation therefore centred on whether immersive tools can improve efficiency and knowledge transfer without increasing operational complexity.
No large-scale implementation was discussed. Instead, the focus is on assessing whether a clearly defined pilot in selected hubs could test relevance, cost-efficiency and impact before any broader consideration.
The objective remains consistent with YMCA’s mission: using technology to strengthen community-based youth work, not to replace it.
