Yubo, a live social discovery app for Generation Z, aims to help people find a genuine friendship-based connection through its platform. Yubo isn’t a dating app. Instead, it’s designed to make it easier for Gen Z members to make new friends and hang out online.

Since launching in 2015, Yubo has helped create over 2 billion new connections. 

Yubo Lets Gen Z Be Authentic Online and Make Friends Worldwide

Yubo is a platform to make new friends and socialize. It’s not a dating app. And we care deeply about the welfare of our users. Safety is at the core of every choice we make about the platform. Our purpose is to give Gen Z a space where they can connect with important safeguards in place. 

Roughly 95% of Yubo users are Gen Z, whose members today are aged between 13 and 26. Part of Yubo’s safety infrastructure is age gating, which separates users into different communities based on age to limit interaction between minors and adults. You must be at least 13 years old to use the platform. 

We aim to make the platform as safe as it can possibly be for users of all ages. Yubo was the first major social media platform to introduce real-time audio and video moderation for livestreams in 2022. In addition to a host of other safety features and technical tools, all activity on the platform is also overseen by Human Safety Specialists, who work to ensure users adhere to Yubo’s Community Guidelines. 

All of our policies and features are developed with direction from a board of online safety experts from respected organizations such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, The Diana Award, and Thorn.

New users must read and accept the Community Guidelines to sign up for an account on Yubo. The guidelines outline the standards and expectations required to keep the Yubo community safe and foster an atmosphere of inclusion.. It’s a living document updated regularly to reflect the frequent changes and advancements in the digital world.

All You Need To Know About the Social Discovery and Friendship Building App

Yubo is not a dating app. It focuses on friendship and encourages users to be their authentic selves for genuine connections, which is why Yubo’s features are designed for small group interactions, similar to friends hanging out in real life. 

To make it easier for Gen Z to meet new friends, Yubo offers a range of activities and features aimed at helping to “break the ice,” such as gaming or group livestreaming. Users can also connect via messaging. 

When French schoolmates Sacha Lazimi, Jérémie Aouate, and Arthur Patora founded Yubo in 2015, they purposely eliminated the pressure of traditional social media approval metrics, such as likes and follower counts, to make the platform a more natural online environment where users can be their authentic selves.

Everyone should be able to feel safe and comfortable to be themselves, online or offline. We insist that everyone in the live social discovery app community respectfully interact with each other. 

With a unique user experience and a strong commitment to safety and social discovery, Yubo is committed to elevating the online social discovery experience. 

Tinder launched in 2012 and quickly changed the online dating game, becoming the most popular dating app out there. Gen Z daters are distinctly active on dating apps, swiping to find their love connection. 

Yubo also uses a swipe feature, leading some to wonder whether Yubo is also designed for dating. But no, Yubo is among the pioneers of the online friendships movement, using a live social discovery model to help foster friendships among Gen Z, the first digital-native age group in history.

Connecting with new people online can be fun and exciting, but it also comes with potential risks, similar to meeting new people in the real world.

When connecting online, it’s essential to be mindful that you may not be getting the complete picture of who someone you’re talking to or befriending really is. A good rule of thumb is to keep your personal information, like where you go to school or where you live, private. Other types of personal information to keep private include your phone number, last name, or the address of the place you work.

Some apps use location services so users can see each other's locations to find prospective connections or matches. This can put young people at risk. Be sure your privacy settings are enabled. On Yubo, location settings for minors are automatically disabled. Never arrange to meet with someone alone you only know online. 

Online harassment is a common risk for young people on apps, so think twice before sending photos or videos. Sometimes, people are tempted to send nude pictures; unfortunately, these photos can become public. 

It’s essential to use good judgment when interacting with new people and report any instances where another user behaved in a way that made you feel uncomfortable. Yubo has robust user reporting tools, featuring the ability to submit up to four media files (screenshots of images or video, for example) to encourage easy and informative reports that safety specialists can use to address potential Community Guidelines violations. Additionally, lean on your parents or other adults you trust, like another family relative or your teacher at school, if you’re concerned about something you saw or experienced online.

Is Yubo a dating app? The answer is no. Yubo is not a dating app but a social discovery and friendship-building platform popular with Generation Z.

Is Yubo a dating app?

Is Yubo a Dating App?

Yubo Basics - Wellbeing & Screen Time

At Yubo, we love smartphones as much as the next person. They allow us to connect and unwind with our friends, share memories, have a laugh or a heart-to-heart. They are small dopamine-producing machines that make us feel good as they facilitate our interactions with the world.

Unfortunately, there are also some dangers associated with this – namely, having many positive social experiences in an online world can reinforce compulsive behaviours, such as mindless scrolling and checking our notifications by the minute, and make us dependent and careless with our screen time. Overextending your screen time, and specifically social media time, can also lead to information overload, vulnerability to toxic online behaviours, increased privacy concerns or fear of missing out. Young people specifically are most at risk of developing smartphone addiction – this is why promoting healthy smartphone and internet habits is of utmost importance for us at Yubo.

Checking if you might have a problem is easy with the help of online checklists that focus on such aspects of smartphone usage such as checking your phone for notifications constantly, missing deadlines and being unable to keep track of time or being uncomfortable without your phone even if it’s for a brief period of time.

To proactively engage with this issue, we have created a video with a brief overview of tools that can help you manage your screen time easily and strike the right balance between real life and social media use. We encourage you to take some time off your screens: read a book, go for a little walk or simply take a pause to close your eyes and relax!

If you’re using an iOS device, go to your Settings, click on Screen Time and ****turn it on. In the menu, you then will be able to turn on Downtime. Downtime ensures that during your scheduled hours you will only be getting phone calls as well as notifications from the apps you hand-picked – no other digital white noise! You can also limit your time spent on individual apps. This is also accessible through the same part of the Settings menu. Click on Screen Time, then choose App Limits and enable them. You could designate a custom amount of time for every individual app, so make sure to try using this tool if your screen usage seems a little excessive. If your time on the app is coming to an end, your device will send you a reminder and grey out the app until the next day.

If you’re using an Android device, go to your Settings, click on Digital Wellbeing and Parental Controls, then tap on Focus mode and toggle on the switch to activate it. This mode will allow you to set your notification-free time from selected apps, and the apps themselves will be greyed out for the time being. When trying to access your greyed-out apps in Focus mode, you will get a notification reminding you that app use is currently paused. You can also control the time spent on individual apps and designate the amount of time a day that you are allowed to use them for. So go set your Yubo timer to whatever you feel would be the most beneficial to you – we promise we won’t mind!

In conclusion, we’d like to share some general tips on how to prevent your relationship with your phone from becoming toxic:

Use your phone purposefully, not habitually. Be mindful of when you pick up your phone and way. Try to reduce the number of times you browse through your apps without being specific regarding what your purpose for browsing is. You might be interested in checking out our blog post on how to use social media mindfully.

…but don’t forget to save some time for purposeless scrolling. Considering that completely cutting out mindless scrolling does not sound realistic, one of the best ways of defeating it might be just trying to control it better. Instead of going on your phone every time you have a free second, set aside some time when you’re allowed to scroll through all your favourite social media, guilt-free.

NotificatiONs, notificatiOFFs. Go through all the apps that send you push-notifications and make a conscious decision over which ones you can go without. This will prevent you from checking your phone every time your screen lights up and will make space for a more controlled engagement with your screen.

Designate some “phone-free” time or zone. You can make time for activities and hobbies that exclude phone usage fully, such as cooking or reading. Use iOS and Android tools suggested above to help you through it. Alternatively, you can have designated “phone-free” zones in your house, such as your kitchen or bathroom.

So don't hesitate to take a break from your phone and enjoy the world around you. Yubo will still be there after that for you to make new friends.

Yubo general tips on how to prevent your relationship with your phone from becoming toxic. Some how-to tips on managing your screen time for Yubo on iOS & Android devices. As well as some useful Yubo tips on how to have a healthy screen time balance in your life.

How To Improve Your Wellbeing By Controlling Your Screen Time

Yubo Launches New “Causes” Tags To Reflect Desire For Valuable Connections

Gen Z is the generation that grew up with smartphones glued to our hands. Memes are our second language, the power of the internet is right at our fingertips, and we really know how to harness it! But, let's be real, besides funny cat videos and the latest TikToks, there are plenty of ways in which the internet can be used – and talking politics and activism is one of them. Making up 10% of the global electorate, Gen Z is not just a bunch of screen-tappers. We are a force to be reckoned with!

Politics is an unavoidable and important part of life. For young people, it is so now more than ever. With us being famously at the forefront of political grassroots movements such as School Strike for Climate, it is important for Yubo to reflect on the political stances and values our users have. Just like our users, who are constantly evolving, we are always on the lookout for innovative technologies, working outside the beaten track, to evolve with them.

Initially, Yubo introduced our “Add by tag” feature to promote better and more lasting meaningful connections. In the past year, our users connected through their shared love of epic tunes, latest films, sports, video games, or other leisure activities that made up nineteen tag categories Yubo currently features. Knowing that for many young people nowadays dedication to causes is non-negotiable, finding friends who share their values through the all-new “Causes” category is now another way they can search for new valuable social connections. After all, why go solo when you can be a part of a vibrant community ready to listen to your ideas and develop theirs alongside you? Joining a crew of like-minded people feels good: it offers us a blend of fresh perspectives, bold opinions, and unexpected insights.

By bringing in what really matters and connecting young people to each other through causes they have a common interest in, we empower them to further develop ideas of their own and test them against other people’s ideas. Here at Yubo, we hope this brand-new feature will ignite powerful and respectful discussions and give Gen Z the needed tool to reflect and refine their political beliefs.

With an array of tags covering movements from environment preservation to equal civil rights for minority groups – such as “Racial equality”, “Gender equality”, “Affordable healthcare” and “Climate change” tags – Yubo strives to represent our users in their work to create a more equitable and fair world.

So, find your new politically-aware besties, jump in a live, and make the change unstoppable!

Yubo launches new tag catergory: "Causes". By using the add by tag feature on Yubo you can now also find people who share similar causes to you. Yubo continues to grow it's 'add by tag' feature - so finding friends with similar interests has never been easier!

Our collaboration with e-Enfance/3018 is a very valuable partnership for Yubo.

It all started in 2017 when our COO first introduced Yubo and our works on safety to them. Since then, our partnership has grown, and we now work hand-in-hand to ensure the safety of our users.

During our most recent visit to 3018's call center, the Yubo team had the opportunity to see firsthand how they operate.

Yubo’s Safety Advisory Board, composed by-world leading experts in online safety and child protection, was visiting us Paris, so we all went together for the visit. A great opportunity for the participants to engage in stimulating and informative exchanges with professionals and peers in the field, whilst gathering valuable insights from experts, and contributing their own perspectives to the conversation.

The e-Enfance Association plays a crucial role in protecting minors on the internet and raising awareness about the potential dangers of cyberbullying, cybersexism, and other forms of cyber violence. Their 3018 hotline serves as the national number for victims of cyber violence in France, providing a unique entry point for all issues related to young people's digital use. They also offer support for digital parenting so that young people can safely enjoy the internet.

How does the Yubo and  3018 partnership work?

We are proud to have @e-Enfance/3018 directly integrated into the Yubo app. Our partnership allows us to provide our users with support and resources if they encounter any issues while using the platform. And we are not stopping there. We have implemented a system to detect distress situations and suggest engaging in a discussion with e-Enfance/3018 immediately. Chat is a privileged format on Yubo, so it's great that our users can communicate with the helpline this way.

On their end, the team at @e-Enfance/3018 receives notifications from Yubo directly on a dedicated iPad, ensuring that they can quickly and effectively respond to any issues that arise.

A collaboration that will keep on growing

Since the beginning our team has been dedicated to help GenZ users forge healthy social media practices. 

@e-Enfance/3018’s dedication and commitment to help young people stay safe online is very inspirational for us. 

Our collaboration has been incredibly productive and successful, and we are proud of the work we do together. We remain committed to improving the safety of our users and will continue to work closely with @e-Enfance/3018 to achieve this goal.

In fact, we are exploring new initiatives and ways to enhance our existing efforts, such as the possibility of expanding our partnership to other countries and regions.

We believe that the work we are doing with @e-Enfance/3018 is making a real difference. By working together, we are helping to protect young people and creating a safe and welcoming online environment for all. We are excited to continue this important work and to see what the future holds for our partnership.

Yubo has formed a partnership with e-Enfance/3018 to ensure the safety of its users. The association plays a crucial role in protecting minors on the internet and raising awareness about the potential dangers of cyberbullying, cybersexism, and other forms of cyber violence. The partnership allows for direct integration of the 3018 hotline into the Yubo app, providing users with support and resources if they encounter any issues while using the platform. The Yubo team had the opportunity to visit 3018's call center and see firsthand how they operate.

Yubo's Partnership with e-Enfance/3018: A Commitment to Online Safety

Friendship in the Age of FOMO: How to Embrace Others’ Adventures and Find Inspiration

Friendship has always been a must-have, offering us support, a buddy to hang out with, and a true sense of belonging. 

However, in today's digital era, we get bombarded with media showcasing people living their absolute best lives - partying at fancy events or going on thrilling adventures. 

It's like we're left behind while everyone else is out there having the time of their lives and that's when FOMO, or the Fear of Missing Out, creeps in. It's that gnawing feeling of anxiety or unease when we believe others are having the time of their lives and what we are doing or have planned doesn’t compare.

However, by understanding FOMO and its impact on our lives, we can take steps to overcome it and embrace others' adventures in a positive and inspiring way.

Embracing others' adventures as a source of inspiration

Instead of thinking "I wish that was me", let's switch gears and think "if they can do it, so can I". See their experiences as a catalyst for our own personal growth and exploration. 

When we see our friends jet-setting to cool destinations, attending concerts and festivals, or living other exciting plans, let's see it as an opportunity to kickstart our own wild adventures. We can research the places they visited, seek out similar experiences in our own city, or plan our own dream trips. 

To create genuine connections and shared experiences, social discovery platforms like Yubo can be a valuable tool. Social discovery platforms focus on fostering genuine connections. On Yubo, users can create profiles that highlight their interests, hobbies, and passions.

You can then connect with others who share similar interests and engage in meaningful conversations. Yubo also offers a variety of features that promote online interactions, such as live streaming, group chats, and the ability to join virtual hangouts. 

By fostering a sense of community and belonging, social discovery platforms can promote genuine connections that go beyond the surface level.

Building and maintaining meaningful friendships

Authentic friendships are built on genuine connections. You have to be true to yourself and allow others to do the same. Share your joys, fears, and insecurities with your friends. Encourage them to do the same. 

Instead of feeling envious or left out, celebrate your friends' accomplishments and let them inspire you. Follow accounts that align with your interests and engage with the community.

But, most importantly, nurture existing friendships. Take the time to chat with your friends and have meaningful conversations. 

Here are some tips for embracing others’ adventures and finding inspiration: 

Practice gratitude: Instead of stressing over what you're lacking or what you're not experiencing, take a second to acknowledge the awesome stuff in your own life. Practicing gratitude can totally change your outlook and help you feel good about where you're at right now.

Celebrate others' successes: When you witness your squad slaying their goals or diving headfirst into epic adventures, go all out and rejoice in their triumphs. Slide into their DMs with a message of congratulations, ask them about the details of their experiences, and genuinely vibe with their joy. By having each other's backs, you can level up your connection and draw inspiration from their wins.

Step out of your comfort zone: If you're feeling like you're in a rut or lacking motivation, it's time to take a chance and step out of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to explore uncharted territories, whether it's enrolling in a dance workshop, embarking on a solo adventure, or dedicating yourself to a lifelong interest. Embracing fresh experiences can unlock endless possibilities for self-development and ignite your inner fire.

Seek out diverse perspectives: Diversify your circle with a squad of friends who hail from diverse backgrounds and possess a wide range of interests. Dive into conversations that push your boundaries and expand your horizons. By immersing yourself in an array of perspectives, you'll discover inspiration from where you least expect it and cultivate a profound grasp of the world.

Practice self-care: Looking after yourself is so important! It's all about embracing others' adventures and finding inspiration. So, make sure you're putting self-care first and foremost. Find activities that recharge and rejuvenate you. It could be anything from practicing mindfulness to spending time in nature or indulging in your favorite hobby. Taking care of yourself will help you stay positive and ready for new experiences.

In the age of FOMO, it's easy to get caught up in comparing our lives to others and feeling like we're missing out. But the true essence of friendship lies in embracing others' adventures and finding inspiration in their experiences. 

By cultivating authentic connections, being present, and celebrating the accomplishments of our friends, we can find joy and inspiration in our own lives. 

Let go of FOMO, embrace the adventures of others, and let friendship be a source of inspiration and support in your life!

Yubo, the Social Discovery app dedicated to Gen Z, writes about FOMO, the Fear Of Missing Out, and its impact on our lives. Yubo highlights steps we can take to overcome it and embrace others' adventures in a positive and inspiring way.

At Yubo, we are constantly striving to innovate, and offer new ways for our users to connect with each other. That's why we are excited to announce our latest product feature: it is now possible to send voice notes in private messages!

Our users can now send short voice messages to their friends and connections on Yubo. Whether you want to say hello, share some gossip, a funny story, or just catch up with your friends, the voice note feature makes it easy to connect in a more authentic way.

In addition to being a more personal and engaging way to connect with others, our voice note feature is also incredibly easy to use. Simply tap the microphone icon in the private message window, record your message, and hit send! It's just that easy.

At Yubo, we believe that authentic connections are substantial to building a happier and more connected world. With our new voice note feature, we hope to make it easier than ever for our users to connect with each other and build meaningful relationships.

So what are you waiting for? Try out our new voice note feature and start connecting with your friends and connections on Yubo in a whole new way!

This feature has been released on iOs and Android, head to the app store to download the latest version of Yubo now. 

The Social Discovery app Yubo has introduced a new product feature that allows users to send voice messages in private messages. This feature is easy to use and provides a very personal and engaging way to connect with your community. Yubo believes in the importance of authentic connections and hopes that this new feature will help users build meaningful relationships. This Yubo feature is available on both iOS and Android.

Introducing Yubo’s latest product feature: voice note

Summer is a time of adventure and excitement, and this year, the stars are aligned to make it your best one yet!

You're feeling energized and ready to take on the world, Aries! Whether it's a road trip with friends or a new outdoor hobby, this summer is all about pushing yourself to try new things. Don't be afraid to take risks and embrace your inner adventurer.

This summer, it's all about self-care, Taurus. Take some time to slow down and recharge your batteries. Whether it's a relaxing day at the beach or a solo camping trip in the mountains, make sure to prioritize your mental and physical health.

As a Gemini, you love socializing and meeting new people. This summer, embrace that outgoing spirit and make some new friends! Whether it's at a festival or a local block party, the stars are aligned for you to make some meaningful connections.

Cancers are known for their nurturing and empathetic nature, and this summer, it's time to channel that energy towards yourself. Take some time to reflect and recharge, and don't be afraid to let go of anything that's been weighing you down.

This summer, it's all about finding your inner confidence, Leo. Whether it's trying a new style or going on a solo adventure, embrace your outgoing and bold spirit and let your inner light shine!

As a Virgo, you're known for your analytical and detail-oriented nature. This summer, channel that energy towards a new project or hobby. Whether it's learning a new skill or tackling a DIY project, the stars are aligned for you to dive deep and embrace your inner creativity.

Libras are known for their charming and friendly nature, and this summer, it's all about embracing that social spirit! Whether it's organizing a beach day with friends or attending a rooftop party, the stars are aligned for you to make some meaningful connections and have a great time.

This summer, it's time to let your passionate and intense side shine, Scorpio. Whether it's pursuing a new creative project or diving headfirst into a new romance, don't be afraid to let your emotions guide you.

As a Sagittarius, you're always up for an adventure. This summer, embrace that outgoing spirit and plan a trip! Whether it's a weekend getaway or a month-long backpacking trip, the stars are aligned for you to explore new horizons and make unforgettable memories.

This summer, it's all about finding balance, Capricorn. Whether it's prioritizing work-life balance or finding time for self-care, make sure to take a step back and prioritize your mental and physical health.

Aquarians are known for their innovative and progressive nature, and this summer, it's time to channel that energy towards a new passion project. Whether it's starting a new business or launching a creative endeavor, the stars are aligned for you to make a big impact.

As a Pisces, you're known for your creative and empathetic nature. This summer, it's time to embrace that artistic spirit and let your creativity run wild! Whether it's trying a new artistic medium or diving deep into a new book, the stars are aligned for you to tap into your inner artist and embrace your passions.

All signs can embrace their unique personality and pursue new experiences. Whether you're an adventurous Aries or a creative Pisces, the stars are aligned for an exciting and fulfilling summer season. So get out there, try new things, and make unforgettable memories!

Yubo imagined an horoscope specially designed for the summer season. It provides advice and guidance for each astrological sign, so you can make the most of the sunny days ahead. Remember, it's important to embrace your unique personality and pursue new experiences!

Yubo Summer Horoscope

Yubo isn’t a Social Media. It’s a Social Discovery platform. 

In a world where social media dominates our online interactions, Yubo is setting itself apart as a social discovery platform. But what do we mean by that exactly?

For starters, Yubo is not your typical social media platform. Instead of chasing followers, or getting the widest audience possible, Yubo aims to connect people who share common interests, hobbies, or goals. For instance, they can make new friends using the Add by Tag Feature. We encourage users to engage in conversation and build meaningful connections. Yubo is breaking down the social barriers that often exist on other social media platforms.

But how does Yubo differ? For one, it empowers users to explore new perspectives, ideas, and new cultures. Rather than being limited to the people and topics that they already know and follow, Yubo users can discover new communities and engage with people who have different backgrounds and experiences.

Another big difference is Yubo's focus on authenticity. Unlike social media platforms where everything can be curated to show a polished and idealized version of oneself, Yubo values authenticity and connection, and encourages users to be their true selves. Many of our users like to live in the moment and go LIVE with live streams. Plus, Yubo has the potential to foster a good understanding and empathy among people from all walks of life.To that extent, Gen Z is an important demographic for Yubo. 

With a personalized user experience and a strong commitment to social discovery, Yubo is poised to create a big impact on the world of online interactions – one meaningful connection at a time.

Yubo isn't a social media. Yubo is a social discovery platform. Yubo is breaking down the social barriers that exist on other social media platforms. But how does Yubo differ? Find out in this article!

Social Discovery Platform versus Social Media

You may have already heard about the French Tech, without really knowing what it stands for or even who is involved. At Yubo, we are proud to be part of the 2023 French Tech promotion, and we'll explain to you why.

The French Tech is a public mission attached to the Ministry for the Digital Economy, which aims to encourage the emergence of French Tech leaders, capable of competing on the world stage with the largest companies in the sector. 

To achieve this objective, the French authorities have decided to award an official label to metropolitan clusters recognised for their start-up ecosystem. During the first wave of labelling in 2014, 9 French cities received this label. Today, there are more than 121 entities with the label, including 63 cities abroad such as London, New York or Hong Kong.

The French initiative was officially launched in November 2013 by Fleur Pellerin, who back then was  France's Secretary of State for Digital Affairs.

When we think of big Tech companies, it's common to think of GAFAM and, by extension, the US (even if things are changing since the rise of TikTok and Alibaba). 

But France also has great tech companies, for example, before this article, did you know that Yubo is French? 

The French Tech creates an ecosystem of start-ups where entrepreneurs can exchange best practices and successes while being supported in their development. The objective of French Tech is, therefore, twofold. On the one hand, it seeks to promote French expertise by giving greater visibility to its young companies. On the other hand, it supports a dynamic sector constantly looking for new talent and thus creates new jobs.

A mantra drives this initiative: "Do everything to ensure that the next Google is born in France and stays there".

The French Tech is the ecosystem of French start-ups, so there are different actors that make it up. Entrepreneurs, of course, but also investors, decision-makers and community builders. All tech actors can be part of French Tech, there is no application form to submit.

Since its creation, the community has diversified and includes nine thematic networks: 

In 2019, the French Tech mission created two labels: the Next40 Label and the FT120 Label. 

Companies obtaining the Next40 label are considered to have the potential to become major players in the French and global tech market. Each year, the French government shares a list of 40 companies that make it into the ranking. Thanks to this label, French companies automatically gain visibility, as the ranking is shared by many French and international media. 

The FT120 Label lists companies that are considered to be scale-ups. The 120 companies on this list are all in the hyper-growth phase and are the potential next unicorns. In 2022, the French tech sector reached a new milestone by reaching a total of 25 unicorns in various fields such as robotics or fintech.

How long has Yubo been part of the French Tech? 

Yubo has been part of French Tech since its creation, as it is a French company. However, it is only since 2021 that Yubo has been part of the Next40/FT120 ranking. We are very proud to have been included in this ranking which shows that our community is still growing with more than 60 million users in 140 different countries.

Why is it important for Yubo to be part of French Tech?

The French Tech represents an incredible opportunity for French start-ups, it is a place of exchange and sharing. At Yubo, we are happy to have access to this unique ecosystem, which allows us to learn a lot and pushes us to constantly improve. 

By being a member of the French Tech, there is a real recognition of the work we have done and an understanding of the challenges we face as a start-up. 

Finally, thanks to the French Tech, we benefit from increased visibility, but above all, we participate in a global movement that puts French innovations at the forefront of the international scene.

Does the French Tech have an impact abroad?

Yes, the French Tech has an impact abroad as many international cities have received the label. These effects are therefore felt on the one hand in France, by fighting against the brain drain, but also internationally, by attracting talent from foreign countries to the French market.

Before the initiatives were put into place by the French Tech, foreign workers found it difficult to settle or work in France. On the one hand because of the language barrier, but also mainly because of the complexity of the French administrative system. 

To facilitate this process, the French Tech launched a French Tech visa, allowing people wanting to work for a French Tech company to easily complete all their formalities in just one month.

Are there similar initiatives in other countries? 

Tech is a strategic sector in Europe, and therefore there are many other initiatives to support start-ups. 

Institutions such as the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Investment Bank actively support tech companies. More recently, the European Commission launched Scale-Up Europe. An initiative that brings together more than 300 start-up founders, investors, researchers and companies to support the development of ten tech giants, each valued at over €100 billion. 

In addition to these European initiatives, there are also more local initiatives, notably in the following countries 

In February 2023, Poland announced that the public fund PFR Ventures had invested €55 million in four venture capital funds, which are committed to supporting Polish start-ups specialising in technologies that address climate challenges and promote the energy transition. This initiative is the first of its kind in Europe.

Bulgaria is one of the latest countries to launch its start-up visa. This allows entrepreneurs to benefit from accelerated immigration procedures if they work in the tech sector. This type of visa has been implemented a lot more over the last few years, you can find the full list of countries that offer it here. 

Along with Croatia, North Macedonia is the first Balkan country to deploy a nationwide digital ID. With this document, Macedonian citizens can obtain documents online from public institutions, open a new bank account remotely or obtain a telephone subscription. 

Digital IDs are an important step for the pan-European development of start-ups, as they allow companies to obtain documents remotely and also to speed up administrative procedures (and reduce costs). 

These initiatives are mainly European, as this is Yubo's home market, but there are similar ones all over the world. So if you are interested, don't hesitate to ask your government or the country you want to move to.

Yubo and French Tech

Yubo and the French Tech

Graduation season is upon us. Whether you’re graduating college, university, or high school, it can be pretty daunting thinking about what comes next. And once you make your decision of what path you’d like to take, it can be tricky handling such a change. That uncertainty you may feel now, and every step of the way in the future, is normal. We understand how you may be feeling about the future, so, let’s break that down.

You’ve just graduated, and it’s time to face the next chapter of your life. But with that comes the uncertainty of what exactly that chapter entails. Do you continue your education, do you start your life in the real world, or do you just relax, enjoy the summer, and make the big decisions later? Maybe you chose to move to a new city or state. Are you considering a gap year to explore new things? The possibilities are endless, and it can be overwhelming to make such an important decision. It's important to remember that whatever choice you make, it's okay to feel uncertain. Change is never easy, and it's natural to question your choices and wonder if you're doing the right thing.

But the truth is, there’s no right or wrong path to take after graduation. It’s important to remember that the decisions you make now aren’t set in stone. You can always change your mind and pursue a different path down the road. So, take your time, do your research, and make the decision that feels right for you.

How do you cope with the uncertainty of post-grad life? The key is to set realistic goals and create a plan for achieving them. This can help you feel more in control of your future and give you a sense of purpose. Whether your goals are related to your career, personal life, or hobbies and interests, make sure they are specific, measurable, and achievable. Break them down into smaller steps and set deadlines to keep yourself on track. Focus on the little wins, and you’ll be on the right path. 

How to deal with loneliness post-graduation?

Another challenge of post-grad life is the loneliness that can come with it. You may find yourself feeling disconnected from your peers, missing your friends and family, or struggling to make new connections in a new place. This is completely normal, and it's important to remember that you're not alone in feeling this way. But the good news is, there are steps you can take to cope with these feelings and make the most of your post-grad life.

One of the first things you can do is to actively seek out new connections. This may be easier said than done, especially if you're an introvert or feel shy in new situations. But remember, you're not the only one feeling this way. There are likely many other post-graduates in your area who are looking to make new friends and connections as well. Consider joining a local club or group that interests you, attending social events, or even reaching out to someone you admire on social media to strike up a conversation.

Another way to combat loneliness is to stay engaged in activities that bring you joy. This could be anything from joining a sports team to volunteering at a local charity or attending cultural events. Not only will you get to engage in activities that you enjoy, but you'll also have the opportunity to meet new people who share your interests. And who knows, you may even meet someone who becomes a lifelong friend!

It's also important to be open to new experiences and try new things. This can be difficult, especially if you're used to sticking to your comfort zone. But stepping outside of your comfort zone can be a great way to meet new people and expand your interests. Whether it's trying a new hobby or taking a class in something you've always been interested in, be open to new experiences and don't be afraid to take risks.

Of course, sometimes, it can be difficult to make new connections, even when you're putting in effort. In these situations, it's important to remember that it's okay to feel lonely. You're going through a major life transition, and it's natural to feel a sense of loss or grief for the social connections you had in the past. Be gentle with yourself and take time to reflect on your feelings. Sometimes, simply acknowledging and accepting your emotions can be a powerful step towards feeling better.

If you're really struggling with feelings of loneliness or isolation, don't hesitate to seek out professional help. Many post-graduates experience mental health issues like anxiety or depression during this transition period, and it's important to get the help you need if you're struggling. Consider reaching out to a therapist, counsellor, or support group to talk through your feelings and get the support you need.

Remember, you're not alone in feeling this way, and with time and effort, you can build a fulfilling and meaningful life beyond graduation.

Post-Grad Dilemmas

Empowering young filmmakers: Join the Childnet Film Competition!

Do you ever come across successful videos online and think, “I could make that”? Are you keen to develop your skills behind the camera and explore technology in a way that inspires others? Yubo is excited to share the news of this initiative hosted by its long-time partner Childnet, which will allow you and the whole Yubo community to share your creativity.  

The Childnet Film Competition is an annual event open to young people ages 7 to18. The competition gives young people everywhere a platform to showcase their creativity and digital skills while promoting the positive use of technology. The competition is run by Childnet International, a leading charity in helping to make the internet a great and safe place for young people. 

This competition provides young people with the opportunity to contribute their thoughts and opinions about life online, spark important conversations and be part of a movement towards a safer and more positive online world.

There are two competitions which are now open for entries: the UK competition and the International competition. The UK version is open to young people in the UK, while the International version is open to young people from around the world. 

The answer is anything that relates to the theme of the competition, which you can view below!

“Time to talk! How can we support each other online?” 

Films can be live-action or animated, fiction or documentary, serious or humorous – but they can be no longer than two minutes and must reflect a positive message. 

Whether you’re entering the UK or the International competition, there is a secondary category is open to all people ages 11 to18, so this would be great if you’re in a school, college, youth group or film group.

What do the winners and finalists of the Childnet Film Competition win? 

Not only will finalists become young pioneers of online safety and be featured on Childnet’s website and social media, but there are spectacular prizes up for grabs for their school or youth group too! 

Finalists of the UK competition will be invited to London, where they will see their films screened at the prestigious BFI Southbank and judged by esteemed members of the film industry. 

Winners of the International category will win £500 for their school to spend on filmmaking equipment, so future generations can follow in the winners’ footsteps and pick up the camera!

Are you interested in creating a film, but don't have access to a camera or the resources to produce a full-length film? Then the “Storyboard” category is perfect for you – in this category, you can create a storyboard that tells a story about online safety. You don't need any fancy equipment or software – all you need is a pen and paper! 

Even better, you can enter this category independently and still win fantastic prizes, such as a professional graphics pen. This is a great opportunity to showcase your creativity and share your own message and experience around online safety.

Build your skills: By participating, you will have the opportunity to develop your filmmaking skills, whether writing, directing, editing or drawing.

Showcase your talent: Share your flair and creativity with Childnet’s audience and leading industry professionals. This can help you gain recognition, build your portfolio, and potentially even open doors for future opportunities.

Win: You could end up winning your school some fantastic filmmaking equipment, and empower future generations to follow in your footsteps. Not to mention, your film will gain recognition with industry and on social media!

Gain experience: Entering a competition allows you to gain real world experience in the filmmaking industry: meet deadlines, follow the brief, and work effectively within a team.

Make a difference: The Childnet Film Competition’s online safety theme enables you to use your filmmaking skills to make a positive impact and raise awareness about important topics within online safety.

If you’re interested in entering, why not take a look at Childnet’s videos on YouTube explaining each competition?

Will you win the Childnet Film Competition 2023?

You can also head here to watch the International video.

It's important to note that if you're interested in participating in the Childnet Film Competition, your teacher or youth group leader must submit the film for you. So, if you're interested in taking part, make sure to approach the relevant adult at your school, college or youth group. There is no limit to the amount of groups that can enter per school, so everybody gets a go.

Each film has to be created as part of a group, so have a think about who would make a great team – each group should be no larger than eight.

Head to childnet.com/film to learn more about the competition, and access the resources to support you in your filmmaking journey.

If you’re looking to enter the International competition, the webpage your teacher will need to go to is here.

Jude first entered the Childnet Film Competition in 2013, where he came 2nd place in the primary category for his creative clay animation work. In 2016 he went on to win 1st place in the secondary category with another clever clay animation. 

Jude has since lent his support as a competition judge, created content to support Safer Internet Day and also created top tips on storyboarding for future aspiring filmmakers. Pursuing his talent and passion for all forms of animation, Childnet recently heard that he is now in his first year at Edinburgh University studying for a BA Honors in animation. 

Jude's top tips for storyboards

He says that entering the Childnet Film Competition helped drive him to get him where he is today – will you follow in his footsteps? 

Why does Yubo support the Childnet Film Competition? 

At Yubo, our motto is to empower young people to discover and belong. When Childnet first told us about this competition, we knew we had to help spread the word to our community. Through this competition, you can share with the world your boundless talent and creativity that is so characteristic of you. 

Childnet is a trusted partner with whom we regularly collaborate to provide valuable resources on how to stay safe online. You may have come across our latest swipe campaign that we organized for Safer Internet Day 2023 (if not go take a look at the article, you can find many great tips). Together we can support the next generation to thrive in the safest possible environment and ensure a caring online space.  

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