24 julio, 2019 / Recomendamos
"Resistencia Cromática" en APPA art gallery
Two months ago Youth Vision Association from Constanza (Romania) organized the Erasmus+ Democracy Builders program in which young people from Italy, Greece, France, North Macedonia, Spain, Portugal and Romania took part. An intense week of cultural exchange and non-formal learning about European institutions and the political participation of young people. A meeting that was held just before the European elections.
The purpose of this program was to understand why young people barely participate in political life and polls and seeking solutions to this issue. The conclusions reached in this encounter will be brought to debate and practice next September in Strasbourg and will be applied in each country’s associations in the form of workshops and talks for young people.
The organizers of the meeting – Daniela Enescu and Oana Cernatescu – and the participants Arnaud Nano, Sami Colin, Tanya Anne Marion, Martha Parasoglou, Anna Filippou, Vasiliki Koutsogianni, Albana Qaili, Ardit Shaini, Matthias Preveato, Valeria Coco, Altin Gjeta, Guilherme Henrique Nunes Martins, Gabriela Teixeira Cursino, Silvia Teixeira, Alonso Escamilla and Berta Delgado tell us about their experience and talk about the Erasmus+ program.
PARCOURS LE MONDE
Parcours le Monde is an NGO for young people who wants to travel the world and gain more skills and knowledge for their professionnal life. They propose many programs like EVS, exchanges, PVT, and more. They also propose some english classes in their locals.
Parcours le Monde is a french non-profit organization which promotes international mobility, european values, citizenship, involvement, non-formal / informal education and intercultural dialogue to the young between 16 and 30 with less opportunities regardless their qualifications. This NGO believe that build a project abroad can be a real step toward inclusion and employability. Whether it is a job, an internship or a volunteering, an experience abroad always provides many learning outcomes which can be personal, cultural, professional, linguistic and technical.
«I would like to involve the population more in the political, economical, and social decisions»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I studied languages – english, spanish and a little of chinese- at university but didn’t finished. Now, I work in the House of Umployment for young people, and I try to make them discover many aspects of culture like danse, music, singing, theatre, opera, etc…
– When did you start to work with Parcours le Monde and why did you decide to do it?
One year ago, in 2018. I wanted to do an EVS because I’ve always been interested to work and discover culture of other countries. But then, they proposed me to to a little exchange of one week in a project against discriminations. I accepted, and I loved it so much that I continued to do exchanges during one year.
I have a close link to them because I could go in many exchanges thanks to them, and I’m also working with them because I send some youngters from my work -House of Umployment for youngs- to their english classes.
«They proposed me to to a little exchange of one week in a project against discriminations.
I accepted, and I loved it so much that I continued to do exchanges during one year»
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I did 8 exchanges in 3 differents projects : discriminations, gastronomia, and citizenship in Europe. I chosed to go to the exchange on Europe called Democracy Builders because I noticed my knowledge in Europe and citizenship was very low, so I wanted to learn more about it.
– What would you like to change in Europe?
It is a hard topic. I think I would like to make more equality for every country, especially for the poorest ones. And also I would like to involve the population more in the political, economical, and social decisions.
«I would like to make more equality for every country, especially for the poorest ones»
– A wish you’ld like to come true
That powerfull persons starts to realise the gravity of our situation (economical, political, and of course ecological), and start to do something to solve those problems.
«I would like Europe become aware in essential issues of this planet such as the environment, the management of resources»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I studied a lot of different things. But the latest studies were in the assistantship of business management option human resources management.
– When did you start to work with Parcours le Monde and why did you decide to do it?
My first contact with my association is done by chance. I did not know what to expect. I wanted to take a break and have new experiences.
«I wanted to take a break and have new experiences»
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
These programs offer new opportunities for me. I did two programmes to learn more about other European countries.
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I would like people to be more welcoming, more open minded. I would like Europe become aware in essential issues of this planet such as the environment, the management of resources. I would like more equality for all the people in things basics such as health.
«I would like more equality for all the people in things basics such as health»
– A wish you’ld like to come true
I would like to travel around the world.
«Thanks to Erasmus+ program, I learn a lot about myself, foreign cultures and I can improve my non-formal education methods too»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
To summary, I studied communication at the university for two years but I didn’t graduate. I felt not comfortable in this formal way of learning so I decided to leave studies and unsubscribe myself from the university. It was a hard choice. After that I always keep working and experienced new things beacause I think that you have to do that to find your way. It mean that if you experienced something that you doesn’t like afterwards, then you can move on and you will finally find your way. It worked for me. I started a french volunteering service Service Civique in Parcours le Monde (my NGO) and now I have goals and professionals objectives in the social field. I trust myself and I will do everything to reach them. It’s all about involvement to me.
– When did you start to work with Parcours le Monde and why did you decide to do it?
I started to work for Parcours le Monde in October 2018. I was looking for a mission about social inclusion of youth people. Too many young people don’t trust in their skills and I wanted to do something for them. I always been sensitive about social issues. I didn’t know that this experience would be so rich. I can figure it out just by now.
My work within Parcours le Monde is to inform young adults about the different international mobility opportunities by organizing collective information meetings, positive action campaigns and awareness-rising campaigns on the various mobility projects they can build. My role is to handle the first step of mentoring with the young people in order to carry out a project regarding a job, an internship or a volunteering abroad. I orgnize English Workshops in order to help them to get better langage skills and have a good preparation for their projects abroad. I’m also in charge of the communication of my organization (newsletter, events, socials medias, radio interviews…).
«Too many young people don’t trust in their skills and I wanted to do something for them»
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I did two projects until now. It’s a part of my work. I’m working with Erasmus+ programmes and the youngsters so these kind of projects are very usefull to me as a person and also as a professional. Thanks to Erasmus+ program, I learn a lot about myself, foreign cultures and I can improve my non-formal education methods too. I want to keep doing it.
I was invited by Youth Express Network (partner with Youth Vision) to participate again on the project. My first Erasmus+ experience was with Youth Vision in November 2018 in Romania and we worked on how to encourage vote within young europeans. So it was a real pleasure to came back in Romania for the next part of the project !
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I would like to change mentalities of the citizens about Europe. I think our NGO’s must keep promoting the europeans values and explain with simple words why we should be active in Europe, why we must explain ourselves as a youngs and obviously, why it’s important for our future.
I know that the European Union is not working well currently. But it’s not a reason to give up. Beeing involved is the first step of understanding how you could contribute to a better future for Europe
– A wish you’ld like to come true
I wish that all the youngs can find their way in the long journey which is life.
«I would like to change mentalities of the citizens about Europe»
More info
UNITED SOCIETIES OF BALKANS
United Societies of Balkans is a non-governmental organization (NGO). The organization was created as a respond to the pressure of constant changes in the Balkan and Eastern European region and under the need for the creation of a better social environment. Key areas of the organization’s activities concern the defense of human rights, the organization of youth exchanges and training courses, which will bring young people from Balkans and Europe together, the organization of local educational seminars and multimedia production, as well as promotion of volunteerism at local and international level. In addition, the design and implementation of research and new methods and tools related to education and action, cooperation with other civil society actors, as well as the involvement with state organizations to achieve the objectives of the organization are key goals of United Societies of Balkans.
«When I returned home after 5 months of Erasmus+ programme, I was not the same person. I was better»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I have studied history and archaeology in Aristotle’s university of Thessaloniki. I have graduated in April and since then I have a gap, during which I participate in Erasmus+ exchanges. This gap period will last until September, when I will start my master on archaeological material sciences at the University of Evora.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I have started my Erasmus+ experiences from 2017 with Erasmus+ studies at Cardiff University. It was an unique experience for me. I lived for the first time on my own, met so many wonderful people from all over the world, learnt so much and developed personally. When I returned home after 5 months, I was not the same person. I was better. So, I fell in love with Erasmus+. I strongly believe that it offers you the opportunity to learn and know yourself better. And of course, you meet many interesting people. So, I continued participating in Erasmus+ . More specifically I have done a Erasmus internship in UCLouvain-la-neuve, three youth exchanges and three training courses. My last program was Democracy Builders. I decided to apply to this program because it offered me the possibility to learn the political situation in different countries as the locals feel it and discuss with them the problems that each of us is facing. I am glad that I was part of this program. I met wonderfully people and gained a lot of knowledge.
«I fell in love with Erasmus+. I strongly believe that it offers you the opportunity to learn and know yourself better. And of course, you meet many interesting people»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I think that even today most of the people don’t feel at all European. They feel Greek, Spanish, German.. and they are trying to protect their own interests. In my opinion, only if all the European countries work efficiently together, great things will be achieved.
«Only if all the European countries work efficiently together, great things will be achieved»
– A wish you’ld like to come true
My bigger with concerns the environment. I wish people stop destroying it. I read recently that humans consist less than 1% of earth’s population, but still they are responsible for 83% of its damage. Everyone is interested in gaining more money, buying more goods but we don’t realise that we are destroying our home, it’s natural resources, its diversity, it a climate. If we don’t change now, earth will not be very welcoming in the following years.
«Erasmus+ programs are a challenge for everybody»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I come from Greece. I live in Thessaloniki. It’s a quite big city but it has many hidden secret magical places and I think that these are its beauty. If you ever visit it, just let it be revealed to you. I study in the political sciences department at the Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki and I deal with the area of sales for children’s clothing.
– When did you start to work with United Societies of Balkans and why did you decide to do it?
I learnt about Erasmus+ programs through my organization’s page (United Societies of Balkans) and in the spring of 2018 I decided to apply for one of them, as I was interested in the part of the refugee crisis. USB is a non-governmental organization (NGO), a civil society body created in Thessaloniki in 2008 by a group of active young people with rich experience around volunteer programs and social visions. Its aims attracted my interest as European citizen who wants to be more active in the forming of this world. USB tries with every activity to promote the values of volunteerism, active citizenship and democracy for the creation of a better future for European youth, to empower young people, by providing education, following formal & non formal methods, information and experience, to promote human rights, solidarity and respect for diversity in so many ways, to conduct research and organize actions about the inclusion of minorities (ethnic, social, cultural) and immigrants, to promote youth mobility and enhance intercultural exchange between European countries and fight prejudices and stereotypes. All these hide an amount of huge work underneath and I am more than blessed that they let me to leave even my smallest footprint to this.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
Erasmus+ programs are a challenge for everybody who has not experimented with anything else like that. It is the definition of «I come out of my element», especially for those who try it for the first time. I have learned that the different does exist, i learned to accept it, to live with it. I contacted people from different countries, I learned their history, their culture and their way of life. Many of them are my friends now. Every time I leave such a program and separate myself with the people I met there, my feeling is left that I am part of a large family that is scattered in every corner of the earth. In this way i feel that i have a kind of connection with every little or big part of this world. In addition, I was given the opportunity to participate and learn more about topics that interested me and were about my studies. The first program that I participated was in Italy and was called «Multicultural Art Vol. 2» and it was a youth exchange and the second was the training program Democracy Builders which took part in the city of Constanta, in Romania. My biggest motivation for taking part in this program was that it was absolutely related with my studies in political science and the field of the European Union and the issue of the elections. I was really interested in learning how the other countries see and facing the problems that exist in national and international level, their political and social situation and of course the reaction and participation of people and especially of the youth.
«Every time I leave such a program and separate myself with the people I met there, my feeling is left that I am part of a large family that is scattered in every corner of the earth»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I believe European Union is very important across a number of dimensions and we can see so many links and connections between us. The European Union is facing manifold challenges within and beyond its borders. Internally, growing inequality undermines its potential to create prosperity and provide stability. I recognize the future need to find new sources of growth and employment, the need to deliver quality public services and renew the legitimacy of public policy-making across Europe. The EU is made of countries big and small, west and east, north and south. I think some base-line tax and welfare policies now need to be put in place in a way that we can be united with base-line stuff, welfare and tax, learn from each other, respect smaller countries more, so that traffic is not just east to west but vice versa, respecting people and other countries identity and the right to determine other things on local needs. I hope Europe invest in a durable economic future with a sustainable ecological footprint, control population size in order to not dilute welfare, stimulate trade on equal terms. I hope in a more active participation and involvement of young people in shaping policies in Europe, expressing and standing up for their rights and exploiting all the opportunities that the European Union can offer to them. Last but not least we certainly should have laws in common that reflect our values and promote human rights and we should not be afraid of requiring the respect and obedience of those laws in any possible way. And I hope we won’t forget that.
«We certainly should have laws in common that reflect our values and promote human rights»
– A wish you’d like to come true
This was the hardest question. Since I was a little girl, my biggest wish was to finally reach happiness in this unique way that makes you feel calm and complete within you and the magical in this world is that this has a different meaning for each one of us. In happiness there are no standards.
«Respect for the human life and fundamental rights of freedom should be promoted»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I have graduated from English language and literature from the University of Athens. I am currently studying for my Master’s degree in Language education for refugees and migrants. At the moment I work for the cultural department of the municipality of Nafpaktos and give home lessons in English for kids and adults.
– When did you start to work with United Societies of Balkans and why did you decide to do it?
Regarding my NGO, it was the first time that I was offered this opportunity. I do not collaborate with them in any way yet.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
Concerning Erasmus +, I am interested specifically in the training courses as I am commited to an all-encompassing education in multicultural environments. I chose Democracy Builders because it entails the values for which I am fighting for: inclusion, equity and active agency in the social terrain.
«I chose “Democracy Builders” because it entails the values for which I am fighting for: inclusion, equity and active agency in the social terrain»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
As far as I am concerned, Europe has neglected the humanitarian values upon which this union was founded. There has to be greater emphasis on effective communication and negotiation among countries. Of course, financial profil cannot be sidelined, but respect for the human life and fundamental rights of freedom should be promoted.
– A wish you’d like to come true
I wish that gender equality will take place in the future and transform society.
«I wish that gender equality will take place in the future and transform society»
More info
BB&R
BB&R is a highly reputable and professional global consulting firm that seeks to influence, assist, and improve communities throughout the world, specially through Social Innovation, Public Policies and Empowering Youth.
«Europe must open its arms to migration and embrace it»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?I studied Psychology and a Master in Public Service and Social Policies. Right now I am Project Coordinator in an enterprise dedicated to public policies and social innovation, specially in charge of the youth projects.
– When did you start to work with BB&R and why did you decide to do it?I start working in BB&R since September 2012, thank you to a scholarship granted by the Santander Bank to work in SME’s. It was a great opportunity to develop different projects, address many topics and travel around the world.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?I am very interested in Erasmus+ Programme, because it gives you the possibility to develop your skills, meet new people from all Europe and discover new realities. I have been in so many, that I do not count them anymore. I started since 2013 and I did not stop anymore. I choose Democracy Builders to exchange best practices with other entities and youth workers regarding how to involve young people in election processes.
– What would you like to change in Europe?At this moment, I would like to change two things: First, Europe must open its arms to migration and embrace it. Because what is happening right now is not a migration crisis, but a humanitarian crisis. Second, the citizens must become aware of the extreme right parties that are starting to grow in all Europe, because of the danger they represent for democracy and European values. We can not repeat the same mistakes of the past.
– A wish you’ld like to come trueThat all youngster, with voting age, went to the polls in their local, regional, national and European elections. The main decision are still taken in formal ways, like in the ballots, and it is important that young people vote and make their voice heard.
«Citizens must become aware of the extreme right parties that are starting to grow in all Europe. We can not repeat the same mistakes of the past»
«We need to understand each other and understand the diversity and cultural wealth we have. That is the way to build Europe»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I studied Fine Arts at the Complutense University of Madrid and at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Bologna (Italy), specializing in photography and set design. But in my studies I chose many anthropology subjects, because I have always been interested in understanding different cultures and why human beings from each culture have different behaviors.
For 14 years I co-direct the art collective LRM Performance with composer David Aladro-Vico. We work in an intercultural and interdisciplinary way and investigate the relationship between music, visual arts and movement. We do a work that seeks for abstraction.
Also for the last four years I am editor and photographer of YanMag magazine, a publication focused on the promotion of professional profiles in all areas, although with a special attention to culture and the arts. In it I also seek to give voice to people of different backgrounds, ages, genders and professions, people who do not usually appear in the media.
– When did you start working with BB&R and why did you decide to do it?
This is my first experience and it has been very rewarding. I contacted them through Sara del Arco, from SexualSnap, she specializes in informing about Erasmus programs and she introduced me to with the BB&R organization. He encouraged me to write to them and show what I was working on to find collaborations. They offered me to attend the Democracy Builders program in Constance, Romania and it has been a great experience for me. I am very grateful to them for inviting me and also to Youth Vision for being so kind, professional and creating an unbeatable work environment.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many times have you been to them and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
When I was studying Fine Arts I attended an Erasmus scholarship in Bologna (Italy). I loved the experience of studying in another country and being able to share it with my fellow Erasmus from Germany, France, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Greece and Italy. You discover that there are many ways of living, thinking and being. I also discovered many things about myself because by living in another country you develop many more capabilities than by just being in your home country. So I really wanted to repeat it.
Erasmus+ has a wide variety of different programs and economic conditions allowing for all kinds of people to participate (of all economic levels), much more so than the Erasmus scholarships offered at the University.
I never took part in any Erasmus+ program until Democracy Builders. I was interested in this program because I try to keep myself informed about politics in my daily life and how it affects us. It is a space in which young people usually do not feel quite interested, so trying to find out why it happens and how to get them motivated seemed very important to me. They must be an active part of society and express their concerns.
– What would you like to change in Europe?
The European Union has focused heavily on economic issues, but left aside fundamental issues in Human Rights. An example of this is the humanitarian crisis of refugees happening now .
Also, countries of the union do not know each other well enough, we need to have more cultural exchanges and encourage everyone’s participation, regardless of each country’s affluence. We need to know each other, understand each other and understand the diversity and cultural wealth we have. That is the way to build Europe. That is why the Erasmus and Erasmus+ programs are so important.
– A wish you would like to come true
I would like people to lose their prejudices about persons from other countries by daring to get acquainted with their cultures.
«I would like people to lose their prejudices about persons from other countries by daring to get acquainted with their cultures»
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EUROPEAN LINK CENTER
European Link Center – ELC Group was established in Gostivar, North Macedonia. The organizations aim was realizing activities which will improve people’s lives through education, job placement abroad and support IT technology.
«Democracy Builders raised my interest in politics and I believe that every field has its importance, especially when it comes to leading and linking countries»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I’m 21 years old student, born and raised in the capital of North Macedonia, Skopje. Currently I’m graduating in the field of Movie and TV directing. Since it can be a rocky road towards that path, and because I want a more secure future, I also study German Literature.
– When did you start to work with ELC Group and why did you decide to do it?
I am not part of the NGO that send me nor do I work there, but I was very interested in their Erasmus+ programs so I decided to apply.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
Getting to know people from different countries and different cultures was always something I was interested in. To travel and see more of the world is a great opportunity to learn about people’s differences and similarities.
The Erasmus+ project in Constanza was the first project I went to and I was very positively impressed. Because of the great experience I had, I would definitely do it again.
Since politics is a field that I have tried avoiding as a free spirit and artist, you cannot run away from it forever. It is a major factor that forms and changes our life’s and that was the main reason why I wanted to be part Democracy Builders, to learn more and share my point of view. Getting to know more about Europe and how European countries function was very helpful to make me create a picture. This project also raised my interest in politics and I believe that every field has its importance, especially when it comes to leading and linking countries.
– What would you like to change in Europe?
The only thing that I would change in the EU is the equality between countries, since I think that it is not balanced. The rights, salary, and living conditions should be the same for all countries in the European Union.
«The rights, salary, and living conditions should be the same for all countries in the European Union»
– A wish you’ld like to come true
Since I am from North Macedonia and we are not part of the EU, I would like that one day my country would join the EU too.
«I really love making good changes in the world while making friends»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I study electrical engineering but I’m more focused into movie editing. I am currently working in sales for an american company to make enough funds to afford a master degree in movie editing. Hopefully.
– When did you start to work with European Link Center and why did you decide to do it?
The first time I started working with them in 2017 and I believe the main reason was Erasmus+. I really love making good changes in the world while making friends and they gave me the opportunity to do so.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I believe there is no other program that compares to Erasmus+ . The opportunities are endless.
I was interested in Erasmus+ for the studying opportunities mostly but every project is awesome.
Democracy Builders was my third project so far. I chose it because the topic was very attractive and it totally met my expectations.
«There is no other program that compares to Erasmus+ . The opportunities are endless»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
If I would have the power I’d love to change the economical system of Europe to make it fit for every citizen.
– A wish you’ld like to come true
Currently my main wish would be to have the opportunity to study my master degrees in Europe.
«If I would have the power I’d love to change the economical system of Europe to make it fit for every citizen»
More info
European Link Center- ELC Group
YOUNG EFFECT ASSOCIATION
Young Effect Association is from Magenta, Italy. It was born on 9th December 2009 with the purpose of giving to young people of the local territory and the rest of Italy the opportunity to discover Europe and the rest of the world through youth exchanges, meetings, events, volunteering and everything that create dialogue between nations.
This NGO works with youngsters within the territory of Lombardia in order to develop their future role in the community; it also writes Erasmus + projects such as youth exchanges and training courses for our territory and for its partners.
«I wanted to know more about Europe and what can I do to play my part for a better world»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I have two diplomas as aeronautic technician and I currently work as a supervisor in an aircraft assembly line.
– When did you start to work with Young Effect Association and why did you decide to do it?
I started to work with my NGO two years ago in order to improve my knowledge in the Erasmus + programmes and be an active part in my community.
Now I work with the president and the vice president and support them with logistics, participants selection and dissemination.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I’m interested in the Erasmus + programmes for the hundreds of possibilities they provide in both individual development and social and civic competences. I’ve participated in 2 youth exchanges and 3 training courses. I chose Democracy Builders because I wanted to know more about Europe and what can I do to play my part for a better world.
«I’m interested in the Erasmus + programmes for the hundreds of possibilities they provide in both individual development and social and civic competences»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I would like people from Europe be more open-minded and use their knowledge and their power to solve problems toghether, as part of a single great country.
«I would like people from Europe be more open-minded and use their knowledge and their power to solve problems toghether, as part of a single great country»
– A wish you’ld like to come true
I wish that every amazing person I’ve met during this projects could realize their objectives and contribute to the development of the society.
«I believe in us, in this new generation»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I’m studying “Multimedia communications” in the department of Political science and relations of the University of Pavia. I’m working organizing events and as a Weddings Planner.
– When did you start to work with Young Effect Association and why did you decide to do it?
I start to work with them from February 2019 and I choose they for their ideas and really interesting collaborations with other countries.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I was in Erasmus traineeship and before, from 2016, started with projects like youth exchange and training course to improve my English language and some soft skills. Now I’m doing this kind of project to learn all of the time something new, day by day, from the travel and from the people who live in other country different then mine.
«Now I’m doing this kind of project to learn all of the time something new, day by day»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I really really want to change the possibility about employment and vote for who live in other country different from his own. I believe in us, in this new generation. We need to change. We need to stand up, raise our hands and say “stop” to politicians or people in general that don’t want that we speak.
«We need to stand up, raise our hands and say “stop” to politicians or people in general that don’t want that we speak»
– A wish you’ld like to come true
There so many wishes, but one in particular it’s respect: respect to each other and no more treatment as stupid.
«It will be a good thing if there aren’t no more nations of ligue A and nations of ligue B»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I have a master degree in Human Resourse and a degree in Intercultural Comunication. Now I work as a Gardner and sometimes I collaborate in formation projects.
– When did you start to work with Young Effect Association and why did you decide to do it?
I start to work with them 8 years ago. My friend bring me there because she is the president of the association.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I’m interested because I like to be involved in multicultural groups and learn different point of views. This is my sixth project and I choose this project because I wanted to learn more about EU and I want to be more active in political life.
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I think it will be a good thing if there aren’t no more nations of ligue A and nations of ligue B.
– A wish you’Id like to come true
I want nobody to feel maladjusted and isolated. I believe this prevents progress.
«I want nobody to feel maladjusted and isolated. I believe this prevents progress»
More info
EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF YOUNG EDUCATORS
European Association of Young Educators is a non-governmental and nonprofit European Organization, registered in the 30th of May, 2016 in Lisbon, Portugal.
The mission of Young Educators is to endorse the contribution of young people in civil society, promoting the exchange of dialogue, experiences and delivering youngsters the opportunity to express themselves in National, European and International arena.
«It is extremely important the participation of people in the democratic process»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I have a degree in Physical Education and a master’s degree in football. I worked in public schools in Brazil with young people between 6 and 18 years old, I worked as a teacher in a Socio-Educational Center for young people (aimed at young people who have committed crimes). In Portugal I am responsible for creating and teaching sports activities in social areas.
– When did you start to work with European Association of Young Educators and why did you decide to do it?
I started working at the NGO in May 2018, and the reason was that they were in need of some professional who fit the profile of the association and could contribute with them to the development of social activities.
I am the sports coordinator of the association and I am responsible for creating sports practices with a social background, sports practices that contribute with young people in social insertion and in the construction of critical thinking.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I am interested in the Erasmus+ programs, because I see it as a great opportunity to acquire diverse capacities and then start to be an individual capable of making changes in the place where we live. Democracy Builders was my first project, and I chose it because I think it is extremely important the participation of people in the democratic process so that people with greater social needs can be listened to.
«I would like the wage and social inequalities between countries to be reduced»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I would like the wage and social inequalities between countries to be reduced and for countries to be able to have a healthy dialogue to try to solve European problems.
– A wish you’d like to come true
I would like to see people with financial and political power who can provide the conditions for people to have a good quality of life and try to balance the inequality between extremely rich people and people living in extreme poverty.
«I would like to see people with financial and political power who can provide the conditions for people to have a good quality of life»
«I see in Erasmus+ a great opportunity to improve myself, and to empower myself to help others in my social context»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I have a degree in information systems and a master’s degree in Design currently. I work as Graphic Design and web design in a wine producing company.
– When did you start to work with European Association of Young Educators and why did you decide to do it?
I started working at the association in January of this year. I already knew a person who worked in the association and I was interested in the projects developed. I was invited to participate and contribute according to my experience as a Graphic Designer.
Now I am the association’s marketing coordinator and web designer and I contribute by building websites, promoting online projects and building graphic projects.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs ? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
My interest in Erasmus+, +and what I see as a great opportunity to improve myself, and to empower myself to help others in my social context. And Democracy Builders, was my first project, and I signed up for it to try to understand in different cultures how the democratic process works and have the ability to dialogue with people with different thoughts.
«I signed up for Democracy Builders to have the ability to dialogue with people with different thoughts»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I would like European countries to be able to understand the real needs of refugees and immigrants and to create a fair policy to shelter them properly.
– A wish you’d like to come true
My greatest wish is for politicians to stop being corrupt and to care more about the real problems faced by the population. Offering a better quality of life to those who need it. So that the world could be a more just and egalitarian place.
«My greatest wish is for politicians to stop being corrupt and to care more about the real problems faced by the population»
«It was very important to see different opinions from different locations to precisely understand what a democracy would really be»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I have a law degree, a master’s degree in International and European Law from the University of Coimbra. I have experience in law, mainly in banking law and administrative law. I am currently a doctoral student in Law, with a degree in Theory of Law, at the University of Lisbon.
– When did you start to work with European Association of Young Educators and why did you decide to do it?
I am not an effective part of the NGO that took me to the Erasmus + course.
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
It was my first participation in Erasmus + and an experience that I will take forever with me. There were moments of exchange of knowledge and realities that added and inspired more courses like this. The choice for the subject is due to my studies and the possible topic of doctoral thesis. For some time now I have been asking myself and studying about the construction of democracy and the course has met those aspirations. It was very important to see different opinions from different locations to precisely understand what a democracy would really be.
«In Democracy Builders there were moments of exchange of knowledge and realities that added and inspired more courses like this»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I would like Europe to be a more inclusive environment and to respect more the diversity of its citizens. Currently the policies adopted reinforce the right to difference, still establishing standards of what would be the ideal to be included, which differs from the real desires of society, who increasingly want more freedom.
– A wish you’ld like to come true
It is my desire to see the world united in its differences, where a constructive, liberating and intercultural dialogue will be possible. From this reality will be possible to build new rights, live democracy, respect diversity and nature and be happy together.
«I would like Europe to be a more inclusive environment and to respect more the diversity of its citizens»
More info
European Association of Young Educators
YOUTH VISION
Youth Vision is a non-governmental organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life of people at risk by offering educational opportunities and socio-professional integration. Youth Vision was born under the project «0 Discrimination, 100% Participation!», A project funded by the Youth in Action Program.
The founding members of the Youth Vision Association are volunteers of the World Vision Foundation Romania, the Constanta Zonal Bureau, who have participated in various awareness and fundraising campaigns for disadvantaged youth in Constanta County.
The Association aims to carry out information and awareness raising activities on the issue of people at risk.
World Vision Foundation Romania, Constanta Zonal Office assumes the role of mentor of the Youth Vision Association, guiding the young people in the implementation of the projects and the development of the association.
«I strongly believe it’s about the little changes we should do in our daily lives»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
Working with people always drew my attention, so it was an easy choice for me to study Communication & Public relations. But I quickly found out that formal education wasn’t a method creative & active enough for me. So during my studies I started to be more and more involved in one of my hobbies, dancing, and I turned it into a job I absolutely loved. Therefore, for a while, you could find me in my little living room, teaching young couples the dance for their wedding or giving salsa and bachata classes. Soon after, I also discovered the Erasmus+ programme, which I felt it broadened my mind in various ways. It was my little treasure that I couldn’t let go so easily, so I started from being a participant to leader, volunteer and finally facilitator and trainer.
– When did you start to work with Youth Vision and why did you decide to do it?
One of the NGOs I am currently collaborating with is a Romanian one, called Youth Vision. I´m glad every time I get the chance to work with this young enthusiastic team. They dedicate their time & energy to vulnerable groups, by offering them educational opportunities and ways of integrating into the society.
I have been part of this team for several years now as a trainer & facilitator in the Erasmus+ projects they are developing. I love to make this kind of projects happen, I feel it’s a genuine way for me to keep my spirit young & restless. So I’m very quick to say YES to every new Erasmus+ approved project, also because the Youth Vision ones are happening near the seaside. So come join us.
It was easy for me to understand from the very first project together that Youth Vision was my new “partner in crime” when it comes to Erasmus+. We shared the same passion for this type of projects and what they imply and we had the same vision about getting things done with energy & dedication. It was an adventure every time, but somehow we made every project happen at its best, with very nice feedback from the participants. And what best hint than their feedback, that we should continue making a team for the other youngsters coming in our projects?
«It was an adventure every time, but somehow we made every project happen at its best, with very nice feedback from the participants»
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
At first sight, I got interested in the Erasmus+ programme because it gave me perspective on the multiculturality aspect. You get to travel, you get to meet all these different, interesting people – it sounded pretty good. But while participating in more than 25 projects, I soon realised that I was dealing with much more than that: non-formal education, creativity, self-reflection. I learned more to focus, to listen, to adapt and very meaningful to me, to connect.
The Democracy Builders project was an incentive to me to become more curious about the European legislative process and to get closer to that feeling of being part of Europe. At the same time, it gave me the possibility to be surrounded by young people, curious as me, who want to gain that know-how and be more involved in the society. It was once again a great project and it confirmed me why I love my job. Long live Erasmus+! (laughs)
«Democracy Builders gave me the possibility to be surrounded by young people, curious as me, who want to gain that know-how and be more involved in the society»
– What would you like to change in Europe?
One issue that got me worried is the climate change we are facing. So i think all of us should quickly start changing our bad habits related to the environment and be determined from today on to set an example for the closest ones at least: family & friends. This is what I also try to do during the projects I’m a trainer; even if the topic of the project is not related, I sometimes take the initiative and suggest to do the trash challenge or just set up some environment-friendly rules to be respected during the project, like writing their name on a paper cup and using just that one every day. I strongly believe it’s about the little changes we should do in our daily lives.
«Social work has taught me that social justice and sustainability can be pillars of my everyday life»
– What did you study and what do you for work now?
I studied Law and I hold a Master Degree in Public Law. I worked as an adviser for members of the Romanian Parliament for 5 years. I am the president of Youth Vision Association and I have been in more than 15 international projects. I participated in various trainings in Romania – like project management, communication, European Funds expert, entrepreneurial competences, others.
– When did you start to work with Youth Vision and why did you decide to do it?
My greatest passions are volunteering, learning and social work. I am a volunteer for World Vision since 2007. I am involved in advocacy, awareness and fundraising activities (more than 50 with approx. 500 beneficiaries). Our purpose is to encourage tolerance and social acceptance in the local community of Constanta towards vulnerable groups. In 2013 I founded Youth Vision association along with other 4 volunteers from World Vision and until now we implemented more than 12 projects (national and international). We were partners in more than 10 Erasmus+ and Youth in Action projects and we managed to send abroad approx. 45 young people.
Volunteering has offered me the tools to work with communities and individuals through the process of change. By standing with those with whom I work, I can offer insight, support and advocacy to communities who hope to build the frameworks for change. My social work experience has asked me to develop a deeper practice of self-reflection, and has required me to become a life- long learner, dedicated to understanding the complexities and dynamics of interconnected relationships. Social work has taught me that social justice and sustainability can be pillars of my everyday life. By bringing this awareness into how I live, I become a more active, engaged and passionate community member.
«I become a more active, engaged and passionate community member»
– Why have you been interested in Erasmus+ programs? How many did you done and why did you choose Democracy Builders?
I was interested in this program because I wanted to gather work experience and get a job. In Romania this is the main problem of young people – not having enough skills and competences in gaining a job according to their studies. So I decided to travel and learn things about Europe. These international projects helped me to find a job in a parliament office. I still participate as a trainers and participant in Erasmus+ projects in order to gather skills and methods to improve my work in my NGO. I have been in more than 15 international projects – Youth in Action and Erasmus+.
– What would you like to change in Europe?
I would like to convince more young people to participate in Erasmus+ projects, travel around Europe and meet youth. I would like to see more and more young people proud of being in European Union sharing values and thoughts.
-A wish you’d like to come true.
I would like to abroad – outside Europe – in voluntary projects (trainings, seminars, job shadowing).
«I would like to see more and more young people proud of being in European Union sharing values and thoughts»
More info
Read more about Erasmus+ programmes
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