EU sparks – pohled zúčastněných
Práce s mladými lidmi není jen tak. Stále je co objevovat. Nové techniky, metody, způsob předávání zkušeností, informací… Tréninkový kurz EU sparks se zhostil nelehkého úkolu – naučit pracovníky a pracovnice s marginalizovanou mládeží inovativním metodám, které zvednou povědomí a chápání témat souvisejícími s Evropskou unií.
EU sparks aktivity
Kromě běžných seznamovacích aktivit se účastníci a účastnice soustředili na témata, jak Evropská unie ovlivňuje každodenní život mladých lidí, zabývali se tím, jak efektivně bojovat proti populistickým kampaním a názorům objevujícím se ve veřejném prostoru, navštívili organizace, které se zabývají programy a projekty spojenými s Evropskou unií a mnoho dalšího.
Atmosféru a vydařenost tohoto projektu nejvíce ilustrují následující vyjádření pocházející přímo od účastnic projektu
Livia:
My recent participation in @studioprogetto’s Erasmus+ training in Italy combined professional growth with breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and genuine human connections. The heart of this experience was its innovative approach to youth empowerment. Through interactive workshops, we explored practical ways to strengthen young people’s understanding of EU values, tools to counter populism and activities of non-formal learning to approach different subjects. What made these sessions particularly valuable was how theoretical concepts were taught by actionable methods we could apply in our work back home.
Beyond the training room, Italy’s majestic mountains provided a stunning backdrop that seemed to fuel our creativity and openness. Our group bonded over steaming plates of pasta, shared insights during hikes, and turned coffee breaks into connecting sessions. These informal moments created a unique dynamic where professional networking turned into friendship. I left not only with new skills and contacts, but with lasting memories and a renewed energy for youth work. It was real proof that the most impactful learning often happens when work and human connection share the same table—preferably one with a view of the Italian Alps and a plate of local Veneto food.
Olga:
From the application process to the final day of the programme, this Erasmus+ experience has truly been a journey of firsts. As a first-time participant in an Erasmus project, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Thankfully, my organisation Mladiinfo and the organising team of Studio Progecto, provided clear, timely guidance throughout. Every question I had was answered with patience and precision, which made the lead-up to the project seamless.
The host organisation’s support didn’t stop there, they also offered the option of green travel.
I gladly took this route, which turned out to be the longest but also the most scenic and reflective journey I’ve taken in a while. Travelling this way felt like the perfect prelude to the learning and growth that was to come.
Upon arriving in Recoaro, we dove straight into the training sessions. Admittedly, the icebreaker activities were the toughest part at first. But as those initial awkward moments faded, we quickly found common ground and, eventually, strong friendships. Connecting with fellow participants from across the continent was one of the highlights of this experience, everyone brought something unique to the table, from knowledge to actual snacks and food to represent their countries.
The core of our learning focused on the pressing issue of populism and its increasing influence across parts of Europe. We discussed how to engage young people in political and civic matters, especially those that affect them directly or indirectly. There was a strong emphasis on empowering youth with knowledge about their rights and opportunities as EU citizens, from participating in policymaking to contributing to legislative processes.
What made this project even more enriching was learning from the experiences and expertise of fellow participants. We explored topics such as civil disobedience, the use of film and media in activism, and innovative ways to reach and engage youth in underserved communities. These peer-led exchanges were as valuable as the formal sessions themselves. The days passed far too quickly, and before we knew it, it was time to part ways. I left the project with a heart full of gratitude, a mind buzzing with ideas, and a renewed commitment to putting what I’ve learned into practice. This experience wasn’t just a project, it was a formative chapter in my personal and professional journey, and I will carry its lessons with me always.
