Special Issue Editorial: Youth Work Pracademia: Creativity, Community and Meaningful Careers

This editorial introduces a special issue dedicated to the concept of Youth Work Pracademia, exploring the dynamic intersection between academic theory and professional youth work practice. Against a backdrop of socio-economic shifts, reduced youth work provision, and shrinking professional training opportunities, the authors advocate for a renewed synthesis of practice and theory. The issue foregrounds the role of the pracademic—a practitioner-scholar navigating both domains—and highlights the tensions and possibilities inherent in this dual identity. Contributions span pedagogical innovations, digital learning (HyFlex), values-based education, youth radio as a participatory tool, co-design in research, and evolving notions of professional maturity and career sustainability in youth work. Collectively, the articles offer a timely and critical reflection on the challenges and opportunities facing youth work education and practice, emphasizing creativity, community engagement, and the pursuit of meaningful careers.