Past projects
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"My music, my movement"
Cercedilla, Madrid, Spain– 15 - 22 September 2025
The project “Art in Motion”, led by Asociación Cultural Calatea in Spain, took place from March 2025 to February 2026 in Cercedilla, Madrid. Designed as a creative and inclusive initiative, the project aimed to provide a safe space where young people could express themselves freely through art, music, and movement. Using non-formal education methods, it encouraged participants to explore their emotions, develop their personal and social skills, and strengthen intercultural understanding through shared artistic experiences.
Over the course of the project, 27 young people aged 18 to 30 from France, Portugal, Poland, Spain, and Lithuania came together to collaborate, create, and learn from one another. The group represented a wide diversity of cultural and social backgrounds, and careful attention was given to maintaining gender balance and inclusion throughout all activities.
Our organization, Young Fellow Volunteers, participated as an active partner in the project. We contributed particularly to the artistic dimension by sharing our experience in using music as a means of expression and social inclusion—an approach we had developed during our first project in May 2024. Through interactive workshops and collaborative sessions, we worked closely with participants to explore how rhythm, sound, and movement can foster connection and communication beyond linguistic and cultural barriers.
The project proved to be an enriching experience for both participants and partners. It not only strengthened the participants’ artistic, social, and intercultural competences, but also enhanced the cooperative spirit among all partner organizations. For us, it was an opportunity to deepen our expertise in inclusive artistic facilitation, to exchange creative methods with international peers, and to witness firsthand the transformative power of art in bringing young people together.
Overall, “Art in Motion” successfully achieved its objectives, creating a lasting impact on everyone involved and laying the groundwork for future collaborations within the Erasmus+ framework.
"Barrier-free living with music"
Blaignac, France – 30 April to 7 May 2024
We carried out our first Erasmus+ youth exchange in Blaignac, France, on the topic of "Barrier-free living with music", aiming to raise awareness on disadvantaged people and art, between 30 April - 7 May 2024.
We were a group of 42 young people from 7 countries (France, Hungary, Spain, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Türkiye, and Romania).
We did several creative activities which helped us develop skills in various domain. We wrote songs based on disadvantaged artists, we played small sketches, we danced a Spanish choreography, and we made visual art displaying facts related to the topic of the project. It was a great experience to meet people different countries, to visit Arcachon with them, and to share and experience new cultures together. The experience was enriching, and here are some key takeaways from the project:
The project combined a range of non-formal education methods, including workshops, cultural presentations, and hands-on music sessions. Participants were encouraged to collaborate and express themselves through innovative activities such as the "Vegetable Orchestra," where they created musical instruments from vegetables, and "Barrier-Free Theater," which involved creating and performing plays about the lives of disadvantaged individuals. These activities not only enhanced their creative skills but also built strong bonds among the diverse group of participants. One of the highlights was the visit to Dune du Pilat, where participants performed a flashmob that they had choreographed themselves. This event was not only a testament to their teamwork and creativity but also served as a public demonstration of the project's core message: the power of music to unite and include everyone, regardless of their abilities.
The impact of "Barrier-Free Living with Music" was profound. On a personal level, participants reported significant increases in their confidence and self-esteem. Activities that required public speaking and performances helped them overcome their fears and develop vital communication skills. Interaction with disabled and disadvantaged individuals developed empathy and a deeper understanding of inclusion, and helped change many participants' perspectives and attitudes.
For the participating organizations, the project strengthened their capacities to manage inclusive projects and expanded their networks both regionally and nationally. These newly formed partnerships are expected to lead to more collaborative efforts in the future, promoting the project's inclusive ethos on a broader scale.
Beyond the immediate participants, the project made a substantial impact at various levels. Locally, it raised community awareness about the importance of integrating disabled individuals into social life. Nationally, it garnered media attention, showcasing the project's innovative approach to inclusion and inspiring other organizations to adopt similar practices. At the European level, the project facilitated intercultural learning and cooperation among partner organizations, setting a replicable model for inclusive youth work across the continent. Internationally, the project contributed to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by promoting quality education and reducing inequalities.
"Barrier-Free Living with Music" has left a lasting legacy. The skills, empathy, and cultural understanding gained by participants will continue to influence their communities positively. The project's success has set a precedent for future initiatives, reinforcing the belief that music and creativity can break down barriers and build a more inclusive society.
As we reflect on this incredible journey, we are reminded of the unifying power of music and the potential within each young person to drive social change. We look forward to continuing our work in promoting inclusion and supporting the participation of all individuals in cultural and social activities.
For more information about our project and future initiatives, stay connected with us on our social media platforms and our website. Together, we can continue to make a difference.
"For the Sake of Clean Environment"
Peloponnisos, Greece – 2024
We were thrilled to participate in the youth exchange project "For the Sake of Clean Environment", which took place in Peloponnisos, Greece. This inspiring project focused on raising awareness of environmental issues and promoting green skills among young people from different countries, including France, Turkey, Italy, Portugal, Bosnia, Tunisia, Bulgaria, and Azerbaijan.
The project aimed to educate us on the major environmental challenges facing the planet—such as air, water, and soil pollution—and encouraged us to develop solution-oriented approaches. Through a variety of interactive activities, workshops, and presentations, we explored the human impact on the environment and discussed ways we could become agents of positive change.
The project began with team-building sessions to help participants from diverse backgrounds connect. We then delved into the main activities, such as research and group presentations on environmental problems, ecological games that fostered empathy with different living species, and workshops on how to implement green solutions in our communities. A significant highlight was creating and performing a theatrical piece to portray the detrimental effects of environmental neglect.
A key learning from the project was how to make the connection between local action and global change. The project reinforced that individual and collective actions can significantly contribute to environmental conservation, no matter how small. The hands-on activities, like tree planting and a nature photo contest, not only educated us but also made us realize the importance of preserving natural ecosystems.
Overall, the For the Sake of Clean Environment project enhanced our ecological awareness and empowered us with tools to advocate for a cleaner planet. We returned to our home countries with renewed motivation to protect the environment and inspire others to do the same. The friendships and networks we built during the project will undoubtedly lead to future collaborations and a continued focus on environmental advocacy.
"Connect to Nature"
Slovenia – 2024
We had the privilege of participating in the "Connect to Nature" youth exchange project, which took place in the serene setting of the Marindol Scout Camp near the Kolpa River, Slovenia. This project was designed to help 52 young people from 7 countries, including France, Hungary, Latvia, Turkey, and Ukraine, reconnect with nature while fostering personal growth and teamwork. The primary goal was to instill a love for nature, empowering participants to make more sustainable decisions throughout their lives.
The experience was transformative, as participants engaged in various activities such as hiking, camping, and daily reflections around the campfire. One unique aspect of this project was the emphasis on self-discovery and personal growth, achieved through experiential learning and nature-based activities. In addition to sports like swimming, soccer, and volleyball, participants also engaged in creative pursuits like playing music, dancing, and drawing. These activities not only fostered a deep connection with nature but also encouraged collaboration and teamwork.
The project underscored the importance of stepping away from screens and the urban hustle to experience life in nature. Participants developed critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills, which will serve them in their future personal and professional endeavors. By living in harmony with nature, they gained a new perspective on sustainability and the environment, which will influence their actions moving forward.
A significant highlight of the exchange was the creation of a short film, documenting the journey and learnings of the participants. This film, along with other project materials, will be shared across social media platforms to raise awareness about the importance of nature and sustainability. The project not only succeeded in its goal of connecting young people with nature but also provided lasting impacts that will continue to shape their lives and communities.
This youth exchange was a testament to the power of nature in fostering personal growth and building a sense of community, and we are proud to have been a part of it.
“Future of Youth in Rural Areas”
Hessen, Germany – 2024
We were thrilled to participate in the youth exchange “Future of Youth in Rural Areas” from June 1st, 2023, to May 31st, 2024. The project focused on empowering youth in rural areas by promoting rural development and social entrepreneurship. It was a unique opportunity to explore rural challenges and learn how young people can drive positive change in their local communities. Here's what we gained from the experience:
Through this project, we realized the potential of rural areas and how they can offer unique opportunities for development if young people are given the tools and resources to innovate. The exchange taught us about the importance of sustainable practices, small-scale entrepreneurship, and agrotourism as solutions to combat rural depopulation. We were inspired by the creativity of our fellow participants who shared practical ideas to revitalize rural areas through local businesses and social enterprises.
The project also highlighted the significance of non-formal education as a powerful method for youth empowerment. By engaging in activities such as blog writing, social media campaigns, and podcasts, we learned how to communicate effectively about rural challenges and raise awareness of the opportunities available in these areas. It was clear that young people have the potential to become leaders in their communities, and this exchange provided us with the skills needed to make a tangible impact.
One of the most valuable lessons was the importance of intercultural dialogue in addressing common challenges faced by rural areas across Europe. The exchange brought together participants from various countries, including Germany, France, Turkey, Spain, Italy, and Finland. Despite our different cultural backgrounds, we discovered that we share similar issues related to rural development, and by working together, we can find innovative solutions.
We also learned about the role of technology and digital tools in promoting rural entrepreneurship and sustainable development. The sessions on using social media and podcasts to raise awareness of rural challenges were particularly eye-opening, showing us how digital platforms can connect rural communities to broader networks and markets.
Overall, the project was a fantastic opportunity for personal growth and cultural exchange. We left with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by rural areas and a renewed sense of motivation to contribute to their development. The friendships we formed and the ideas we shared will continue to inspire us as we work towards creating positive change in our local communities.
"Dreams Come True,"
Bremen, Germany – 2023
We had the opportunity to participate in the youth exchange project "Dreams Come True", organized in Bremen, Germany. This project aimed to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment in Europe by empowering young people with essential skills for entering the labor market and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit.
Throughout the exchange, we engaged in various activities designed to improve our competencies in communication, public speaking, and job interview techniques. The project was structured to provide both practical and creative learning experiences, including sessions on creating impressive CVs, managing emotions in high-stress situations like interviews, and developing a business mindset. One highlight was the "Entrepreneurship Days," where participants learned about creating business plans, promoting ideas, and exploring entrepreneurship as a career option.
A city tour of Bremen’s entrepreneurial sector provided valuable insights into how local businesses operate and the challenges they face, inspiring us with real-world examples of success. The project also fostered cultural exchange and teamwork among participants from six countries: Poland, Spain, France, Turkey, Italy, and Germany. Through this collaboration, we not only learned professional skills but also deepened our understanding of different cultures and developed lifelong international friendships.
By the end of the project, we were able to reflect on our learning journey, document our growth through the Youthpass certificate, and discuss how we could apply our newly gained knowledge to future career opportunities. We left the exchange with increased self-confidence, better adaptability to different social and professional contexts, and a stronger entrepreneurial spirit. "Dreams Come True" was a truly enriching experience, equipping us with tools for both personal and professional growth.
"New Ways for Immigrants to Accelerate in the Labor Market"
Évora, Portugal – 2023
We had the privilege of participating in the youth workers' mobility project "New Ways for Immigrants to Accelerate in the Labor Market", coordinated by Mundus Intercultural ONGD in Évora, Portugal. This project brought together 36 youth workers from 12 countries, including France, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Hungary, and Turkey, to address the growing challenges migrants and refugees face in accessing local labor markets across Europe.
The project focused on equipping youth workers with essential tools and techniques to support the employment of migrants and refugees by overcoming language, cultural, and social barriers. Throughout the week, we engaged in various activities aimed at understanding the obstacles refugees face in entering the labor market and explored ways to match their skills with local market demands. These activities ranged from mapping the skills of refugees to good practice presentations, interactive workshops, and field visits to local immigration offices.
A key takeaway from this project was the critical role that youth workers play in bridging the gap between migrants' abilities and the demands of the labor market. By learning to profile the skills of refugees and understanding the resources available to them, we now feel better equipped to support their integration. Another highlight was the "Hope Stories" panel, where we had the opportunity to hear inspiring accounts from refugees who had successfully built their careers, reinforcing the importance of resilience and community support.
This experience underscored the value of international cooperation in addressing common challenges, and we were inspired by the innovative approaches shared by other organizations. We return from this project with a renewed sense of purpose and practical knowledge to continue fostering inclusion and employability for migrants in our own communities.
"No to Hate, yes to Love"
Stolzenburg, Germany – 23 to 31 January 2023
In Stolzenburg, Solingen-Germany, we gathered from Turkey, Portugal, Hungary, Czech Republic, France, Latvia, Bulgaria and Germany from January 23 to 31, 2023. Participants from these countries were welcomed under the Erasmus+ platform to explore the topic of "xenophobia". We learned from ourselves with the facilitator's guidance to explore the dangers of xenophobia and how to deal with the situation. Among the many things we learned, we shouldn't discriminate against anyone, regardless of gender or race.
We were also well received by the Solingen Major's office, our active participation was welcomed and we were encouraged to live by the lessons we learnt from the practical knowledge we gained. We must thank our facilitator, coordinator, and host organization for all the effort and resources that went into making this project a success.​
