From 16 to 20 May 2025, the youth exchange “My yEUth Story 2.0” took place in Varna, Bulgaria, gathering 26 young participants from Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, and Slovakia. The exchange, funded by the European Commission under the Erasmus+ Programme, focused on introducing participants to the European Youth Strategy and the 11 European Youth Goals, with a specific emphasis on #3 Inclusive Societies and #6 Moving Rural Youth Forward.
The project was designed to create an engaging and empowering learning space, combining non-formal education methods, cultural exploration and digital creativity. Organized by FECE (Foundation for Entrepreneurship, Culture and Education), the program offered young people the opportunity to dive deep into issues that affect youth across Europe, especially those living in rural or marginalized communities.
Key Highlights of the Programme:
Day 1 began with energizers and team-building activities, allowing participants to connect and get to know each other. This was followed by an introduction to the European Union, its core values, and the European Youth Goals. The concept of the Youthpass Certificate was also introduced. Later, discussions centered around what it means to build inclusive societies, both individually and collectively.
Day 2 encouraged participants to create role models based on four key youth goals: Inclusive Societies, Moving Rural Youth Forward, Information and Constructive Dialogue, and Quality Employment for All. These fictional characters were then brought to life through comics, telling visual stories of youth advocacy and resilience. The afternoon was spent exploring the vibrant cultural life of Varna as part of the city’s Night of Museums and Galleries.
Day 3 was dedicated to exploring vulnerable groups through artistic performance. Participants acted out real-life challenges faced by women, refugees, LGBTQ+ individuals, and rural youth. They also brainstormed interview questions on the Youth Goals and used AI tools to create original theme songs. The afternoon was spent filming interviews with locals in Varna, collecting diverse perspectives and personal stories.
On Day 4, the focus shifted to democratic society structures, exploring the relationships between government, citizens, media, and NGOs. Participants designed advocacy personas and explored historical and modern-day figures fighting for inclusivity. The innovative “Spaces for the Future” ethics board game was introduced, encouraging reflection on social responsibility. The day concluded with a vibrant intercultural evening, where each country shared its traditions, food, dances, and stories.
The final day wrapped up the exchange with a presentation on the Erasmus+ Programme and a hands-on session where participants developed sample Erasmus+ project ideas. The exchange ended with a final reflection, evaluation, and the Youthpass award ceremony, celebrating the learning journey of each participant.
My yEUth Story 2.0 was more than just a youth exchange – it was a space for dialogue, creativity, cultural understanding and empowerment. Through storytelling, art, and collaboration, young people from four countries came together to reflect on Europe’s present and envision a more inclusive future.
