Who we are
Fryshuset is widely regarded as Sweden’s largest youth organization, with a growing international presence and outreach. As an independent, non-profit organization free from political and religious affiliations, Fryshuset is driven by the belief that encouragement, trust, responsibility, and understanding are essential in supporting young people.
For over 40 years, Fryshuset has been dedicated to empowering young people, and it continues to do so by providing the tools, opportunities, and support they need to grow, realize their potential, and find their place in society.
My work is based on a belief in people, not mistrust. This doesn’t mean I am naive or blindly trust everyone, but I do believe that, in the right context, with the right encouragement, and surrounded by the right people, anyone can rise and move forward.
– Anders Carlberg, Fryshuset founder
What we do
Fryshuset works for societal change and the positive development of all young people. Youth-driven activities lie at the core of our work. We create inclusive spaces where young people can connect, engage in meaningful activities, explore their interests, and grow both personally and professionally. By involving young people in decision-making and continuously evolving our methods to better support them, we build self-confidence and foster the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. This empowers youth to take control of their futures and shape their own paths. One of the key tools we use to support this process is Fryshuset’s Youth Participation Model, introduced below.
Fryshuset’s Youth Participation Model
Our core values
The core values are our most important compass and represent the power to act that arises when passions, perspectives, knowledge, and generations unite under one roof. Our work is based on love and a belief in humanity. We always work for something – never against. With a strong conviction that when we direct energy correctly, all people, with the support of positive contexts and fellow human beings, can rise and move forward.
We build trust and relationships.
We develop positive contexts for young people where the desire to participate and shared passions bridge differences and create motivation and hope for the future. We provide encouragement, trust, and responsibility so that young people can grow and take control of their own lives.
We listen to what is happening in society and adapt quickly.
We act with courage in what is new and unknown. We see opportunities and dare to create change where others often see problems.
We are here for all young people and focus especially on those who live, or risk ending up, outside society.
Here, the door is always open – we believe that everyone can succeed with the right conditions and that everyone deserves a chance.
We start from the individual’s needs.
We are here for anyone who, regardless of background, wants to engage and develop.
Our main fields of operations
Fryshuset’s work spans a wide range of initiatives, centered around four key areas: Youth Culture, Education (Schools), Work & Entrepreneurship, and Social Work. We run youth centers, schools, and various types of associations that provide diverse opportunities for formal and non-formal education, fostering holistic learning and supporting young people’s personal and professional growth.
Youth Culture
A Meaningful Leisure Time
Offering meaningful leisure activities in sports, culture, and creativity that support well-being and personal growth.
Social Programmes
Support where it’s needed most
Creating safe spaces where young people can meet, grow, and shape their future. We focus on reaching those who are often left out and building on their strengths.
School
More than just a school
Fryshuset runs three compulsory schools, one upper secondary school, a folk high school, and a vocational dance program.
Work & Entrepreneurship
Provide young people with guidance and concrete options
Helping young people find their path in working life. We support them in becoming entrepreneurs, employees, or employers based on their own goals and choices.
Where we are located
Fryshuset operates in multiple locations across Sweden and Scandinavia, implementing impactful projects that support the growth and development of young people.
See the map and learn more on our locations page.
Our international work
Discover how we empower youth on a global scale.
Visit our Fryshuset Global page for more information.
News, evidence and reports
Stay informed about our latest activities and updates through our news feed.
Learn more about our work through our annual reports, evidence studies, project reports, and methodological materials:
Discover our Evidence and Reports page.
View our Annual Reports page for the full historical archive, or download the English translation of the 2024 Annual Report.