From December 2-10, two youth workers from Armenia joined peers from six other countries in Varbovo, Bulgaria, for the Erasmus+ training course "Connect & Engage: Digital Tools for Youth Inclusion".
This program empowered youth workers to use digital tools to support marginalized youth, fostering inclusivity and creativity.
Organized by the Bulgarian Youth Forum, the training brought together participants from Armenia, Türkiye, Georgia, Albania, Romania, and Moldova. Throughout the program, participants actively engaged in workshops, cultural exchanges, and meaningful group activities that broadened their perspectives and strengthened their skills.
Highlights of the Training
Our days were filled with engaging sessions and hands-on activities:
Workshops and Discussions
We explored topics like Why Digital Youth Work Matters, Digital Support for Youth, and Critical Thinking in the Digital Era. These sessions helped us better understand the challenges faced by marginalized young people and equipped us with practical tools to address them.
Creative Projects
We participated in a podcast workshop, where we developed and recorded content aimed at raising awareness about youth inclusion. Additionally, a forum theatre activity allowed us to tackle real-life scenarios, improving our problem-solving and collaboration skills.
Cultural Exchanges
During the cultural night, we proudly represented Armenia. We introduced our peers to traditional dishes like lavash, dolma, dried fruits, pastirma, and paired them with the renowned Ararat cognac. As a special touch, we displayed a flag that had once been raised atop Mount Ararat, symbolizing our cultural pride and identity.
Memorable Visits
Beyond the training sessions, we explored Bulgaria’s rich cultural and natural heritage:
Chuprene Municipality: We met local authorities and gained insights into rural development initiatives.
Magura Cave and Belogradchik Rocks: These breathtaking landmarks inspired us and allowed for moments of reflection and connection.
Vidin Fortress: This historic site provided a unique opportunity to learn about Bulgaria’s past while bonding with other participants.
A Unique Bond
One of the most touching aspects of the program was the exchange of kind letters among participants. We each wrote personal messages to our peers, celebrating shared experiences and the friendships we formed. These letters served as lasting reminders of the connections we built during this journey.
A Call to Action
This training course inspired us to integrate digital tools and creative methods into our work with youth. We left Varbovo with new skills, fresh ideas, and a renewed commitment to fostering inclusivity and engagement in our communities.
We express our heartfelt gratitude to the Bulgarian Youth Forum and INEDNET Armenia for making this transformative experience possible. Initiatives like this demonstrate the immense power of international collaboration in addressing global challenges and creating lasting change.
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