ERASMUS+, Key Action 1: Professional Development Activity
Dates: 27 November—2 December 2024
Venue: Altamura, Itálie
Participant: Jana M.
Please read the info-pack.
Hosting organisation: Associazione Link APS
Project report:
To Gather: Sharing Methods and Practises for Youth Participation
The ToGather seminar organized by Link APS was an intensive four-day program focused on sharing methodologies and approaches for youth engagement and social inclusion. I had the opportunity to participate and represent our organization alongside many other representatives from across Europe.
The seminar aimed to exchange strategies for involving young people, especially those with fewer opportunities, in socially impactful projects, share youth work techniques, and build future partnerships. These goals were achieved through interactive workshops, group discussions, and practical activities.
On the first day, we engaged in various icebreaker games that created a friendly atmosphere. The organizers introduced the project, and one of the main activities was creating the fictional city “Togetherland.” In groups, we designed its inhabitants, defined its values, and collaboratively created a city map. Each organization then placed its profile on the map based on the area where it operates most actively.
The second and third days were dedicated to workshops and experience sharing. I had the chance to choose from several parallel workshops. I attended a workshop on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, where we discussed specific goals. In the public speaking workshop, we addressed overcoming the fear of public speaking and practiced practical skills.
Other inspiring workshops included stress management techniques, where we explored meditation and relaxation exercises, and a creative workshop on light drawing, where we created patterns and words using lights and a camera.
The last day was dedicated to evaluation and networking. We evaluated the workshops and the entire seminar. There was also a networking activity where we could discuss future projects and potential collaborations. This activity encouraged contact exchange and laid the foundation for future international projects.
Participating in the ToGather seminar was very beneficial for me. I learned new youth work techniques, including public speaking training, creative artistic methods, and relaxation exercises. I established contacts with organizations from different countries. Overall, the ToGather seminar achieved its goals, and the diversity of participants and methods provided me with new ideas for future projects.
Jana M.
