ERASMUS+, Key action 1: training course
Venue: Liepupe, Latvia
Timeline of this training course:
- training course: 22.—30. September 2024, Liepupe, Latvia
- Organization of local activities (in the Czech Republic): between October and November.
Czech team: 4 participants.
Please read the info-pack.
Hosting organisation: re:view Latvia
Project report:
In a remote and tranquil location in Latvia, far from the distractions of everyday life, a group of passionate and motivated young individuals gathered for an Erasmus+ leadership training program.
This unique experience focused on personal development, goal setting, and practical leadership skills. Through a blend of unconventional activities, participants were taken on a transformative journey designed to help them unlock their full potential and forge deeper connections with others.
A Focus on Leadership and Goal-Setting
At the heart of the program was the emphasis on leadership, but not in the traditional sense. Rather than focusing solely on leadership theory, participants were encouraged to reflect on their personal goals and dreams. Through workshops and group discussions, we explored how to define clear objectives, break them down into actionable steps, and stay motivated even when the journey becomes challenging.
One of the highlights of the program was the exploration of leadership from within — the idea that leadership starts with self-awareness and the ability to guide oneself towards personal goals before guiding others. This inward focus allowed participants to not only envision their future, but also understand the challenges they might face and how to overcome them.
Ice Water Bathing: Pushing Limits, Finding Resilience
One of the most memorable and intense experiences of the program was ice water bathing, a challenge that tested both our mental and physical resilience. Stepping into freezing cold water required a level of mental strength that many of us had never tapped into before. This activity symbolized the hurdles we may face on our leadership journeys — moments when we feel uncomfortable or unsure, yet push forward with determination.
The ice bath became a metaphor for embracing discomfort in pursuit of our goals. Participants found strength not only within themselves but also in the group, as we encouraged each other to enter the water, reinforcing the importance of community and support in achieving personal growth.
The Paperclip Challenge: A Lesson in Creativity and Resourcefulness
Another fascinating activity was the paperclip challenge, where each participant was tasked with exchanging a simple paperclip for something of greater value through a series of trades. This seemingly simple task required us to think outside the box, use negotiation skills, and build rapport with others.
The challenge highlighted the value of resourcefulness and creativity — key traits for any leader. It showed us that even with limited resources, it is possible to create opportunities and work toward a larger goal. This exercise was not only fun but also eye-opening, as it demonstrated that leadership isn’t always about having all the answers, but about finding solutions and leveraging the resources at hand.
Trust and Connection: Movement Activities
Leadership also requires trust, both in oneself and in the people around you. Throughout the program, we participated in various movement-based activities designed to build trust and foster connection among the group. These exercises, which involved for example relying on others for physical support, taught us the importance of trust in a team environment.
These activities transcended mere physicality and encouraged deeper interpersonal connections. By relying on each other in vulnerable moments, we developed a sense of unity that enhanced the overall learning experience. In leadership, trust and connection are crucial; this part of the program demonstrated how to build and maintain these essential elements in any group or team setting.
Reflections and Takeaways
The Erasmus+ leadership program in Latvia was not only an opportunity to develop leadership skills but also an invitation to look inward, reflect on personal goals, and build meaningful connections with others. The remote setting allowed us to detach from the usual pressures of everyday life, providing the perfect environment for growth and reflection.
Participants left the program with newfound clarity on their goals, practical tools for achieving them, and a deeper understanding of what it means to lead. Whether it was through the resilience-building ice baths, the creativity of the paperclip challenge, or other activities, every experience contributed to our personal and collective growth.
Jana K.
