From August 24th to September 1st, 2024, we had the privilege of participating in the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange, “With a Healthy Lifestyle for Inclusion.” This transformative project was hosted by our Polish partner and organized by SIR with the support of the Erasmus+ program, bringing together a diverse group of 40 young people from various European countries.
The Purpose and Focus of the Project
The primary goal of this exchange was to raise awareness about important environmental and health issues while encouraging young people to adopt healthier lifestyles. We believe that health is not just about physical well-being but also mental and social health, closely connected to inclusivity and sustainability. With this in mind, the project aimed to empower European youth to take an active role in promoting healthy habits and fostering inclusion within their own communities.
A unique aspect of this exchange was its focus on participants facing significant challenges in their daily lives. Among the 40 participants, 15 were young people who dealt with health issues or came from disadvantaged backgrounds. By creating an inclusive and supportive environment, the project ensured that these participants had equal access to all activities, offering them a safe space to grow, learn, and contribute.
Non-Formal Education for Lasting Impact
Throughout the exchange, participants engaged in a variety of non-formal education activities that focused on health and environmental sustainability. These activities included workshops, outdoor challenges, group discussions, and creative projects. Each activity was designed to encourage critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork, fostering an understanding of the connections between healthy living, inclusion, and environmental responsibility.
One of the highlights of the program was a series of workshops on sustainable living and healthy food choices. Participants learned how everyday decisions—such as the food we eat, how we exercise, and our interaction with the environment—can have a profound impact on personal and community well-being. For many, this was a powerful realization. One participant noted:
“I never thought about how my food choices could impact not only my health but also the planet. This exchange opened my eyes to the importance of small, sustainable actions and how they can make a big difference.” – Marta, participant from Italy
Participants’ Experiences and Personal Growth
Beyond the educational aspects, the exchange also fostered personal growth and empowerment. For many participants, this was their first opportunity to engage with peers from different cultural and social backgrounds. The exchange encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones, share their experiences, and develop a sense of belonging within a broader European community.
“The workshops were amazing, but what I appreciated the most was meeting people from different countries and learning about their cultures. We bonded over shared goals and challenges, and it helped me feel more connected to the world.” – Tom, participant from Spain
The inclusion of participants facing health and social challenges added an extra layer of depth to the experience. Many shared how the supportive atmosphere gave them confidence and helped them feel valued. One young participant, who had previously struggled with chronic health issues, reflected:
“For the first time, I felt like my voice mattered. This project didn’t just teach me about healthy living; it helped me believe that I can make a difference in my community, no matter my challenges.” – Anna, participant from Poland
Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
One of the key takeaways from this youth exchange was the power of inclusion. The participants learned that health and environmental awareness are interconnected, and both are strengthened by inclusive communities where everyone can contribute. The project also highlighted the importance of non-formal education as a tool for empowering young people to become active citizens, equipped with the knowledge and skills to address pressing global challenges.
The experiences and insights gained during the exchange will not only impact the participants but will also be shared with a wider audience. Through promotional efforts and dissemination activities, we aim to reach hundreds more young people across Europe, spreading the message of health, sustainability, and inclusion.
Looking forward, we are excited to continue this journey. The knowledge gained from this project will inform future initiatives, as we work to promote healthy lifestyles, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility within our local communities and beyond.
“I came back with new friends, new perspectives, and a clearer sense of how I can contribute to a healthier, more inclusive future.” – Luca, participant from Italy
We are immensely grateful to our partners, SIR, and the Erasmus+ program for making this life-changing experience possible. Together, we will continue to strive for a healthier, more inclusive, and sustainable world. 🌍
Here some videos produced during the project:
