In a powerful display of local commitment to creating safer, healthier environments for young people, Meteva Sport og Helse’s initiative, the NextGen Neighbor Network, in collaboration with Gneist, International School of Bergen (ISB) and Ytrebygda Basketballklubb, successfully hosted Miljøplakaten Sandslihallen on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Ytrebygda Kultursenter.

The event brought together a diverse and energized gathering—parents, educators, sports clubs, the police, politicians and local leaders—united by a shared goal: strengthening Bergen’s communities by investing in its next generation.

Building on the success of its pilot event in Tertnes, the Miljøplakaten Sandslihallen drew an impressive turnout and fostered meaningful dialogue. Attendees explored how sports clubs, schools, and accountable/responsible adults,  can work collaboratively and simultaneously to prevent bullying, snitching, violence, drug use, and social exclusion—while reinforcing inclusion, personal responsibility, and respect.

One of the evening’s standout voices was Jan Hendrik Parmann, President of  Norges Basketballforbund, who spoke passionately about preventing abuse within sports. “Most young people are incredibly impressionable and deeply affected by their surroundings,” he noted. “Creating safe spaces and good role models is not optional—it’s urgent.”

In addition, the local police emphasized the vital role of parents and guardians in being actively involved and aware in their children's lives. They also underlined the importance of the Miljøplakaten, stressing the need for mutual clear ground rules and regular parent meetings with structured expectations.

While important conversations took place inside the Kultursenter, children and teenagers enjoyed organized outdoor activities, with refreshments generously provided by Q and Isbjørn is. The family-friendly setup contributed to the inclusive atmosphere that defines the Miljøplakaten movement.

Sports clubs including Gneist, Ytrebygda Basketballklubb, Fyllingen Lions, and representatives from the International School of Bergen (ISB) were present—many wearing NextGen Neighbor Network “I Care” shirts, a visual statement of their commitment. Speakers emphasized that sports are not just about winning games; they’re about shaping people. For example, Basketball’s “more than a sport” slogan—reflects a broader vision where the sport fosters inclusion, positive role models, fun, and personal development. These values align hand-in-hand with the NextGen Neighbor Network’s foundation of community, integrity, respect, and responsibility.

The NextGen Neighbor Network continues to gain momentum through grassroots partnership, volunteer effort, and community leadership. As its Miljøplakaten initiative extends across Bergen, each event deepens the collective promise to listen, support, and take action for the city’s children.

As Louise Mohn, Co-Founder of NextGen Neighbor Network shared,  “We’re changing the narrative of snitching. When responsible adults across school, sports and culture agree to show up, to be accountable, both in words and actions, in a simultaneous way with high speed, that constitutes deep rooted integrity.”

What began as a local initiative is fast becoming a regional force—the NextGen Neighbor Network is driven by character, purpose, shared goals, trust, and the simple act of community leaders and accountable adults showing up. Again and again.

When the youth sees adults stand together—across clubs, cultures, and communities—they will begin to believe they have a safe space to accomplish their dreams. 

As the police cleverly pointed out, parents in general have a lack of control and information about their young children. This highlights the massive importance of good role models. NNN’s Project Manager, Bouna Black Ndiaye and the continued support of the Fyllingen Lions, keep contributing to the success of the NextGen Neighbor Network and the growing Miljøplakaten launches within the region. Together with local ambassadors from Gneist gymnastics, Gneist handball and Ytrebygda basketball, we share our role models for the benefit of the next generation.

This is just the beginning—and Bergen is leading the way. NNN’s Co-Founder, Louise Mohn, puts it straight,  “My deepest gratitude today goes to Cathrine Lutro and Kjersti Gautestad Norheim, the founders of a local initiative in Bergen called ForeldreAksjonen BergenSør. For several years, they have laid the foundation of a collective collaboration between all schools, all head masters, head principals, school nurses etc making the implementation of NNN possible in every area of Bergen. I applaud these strong and intelligent women who work so hard for the greater good, for our children and youth. They selflessly contribute to making the world a better place. 

Please continue to visit our website and social media platforms for upcoming Miljøplakaten events