From January 5th to 14th, 2025, the international youth exchange Building Bridges: Connecting Communities took place in Castagnetoli, Italy, as part of the Erasmus+ program. The project brought together young people from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds, providing them with a space to build intercultural bridges, develop teamwork skills, and reflect on the importance of inclusion and sustainable development., providing them with a space to build intercultural bridges, develop teamwork skills, and reflect on the importance of inclusion and sustainable development.
Project Goals and Objectives
The Building Bridges project was created to strengthen social ties, promote inclusion, and raise awareness of sustainability and environmental responsibility. Many young people, particularly those from less privileged backgrounds, experience social exclusion and a lack of motivation to engage in community life. Partner organizations working on this project recognized the need to create an environment where diversity is seen as a resource and collaboration as the key to growth.
The main objectives of the project included:
- Promoting intercultural understanding through dialogue and international interactions,
- Encouraging volunteering and engagement in community service,
- Creating a safe space for discussions on inclusion and citizenship,
- Developing interpersonal skills, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.
Project Activities
Each day of the project was designed to foster participant integration while also incorporating sustainability-focused activities and discussions on ecological and social responsibility. Activities included workshops, discussions, and practical tasks. Key activities included:
- Teamwork workshops, promoting collaboration and problem-solving in international groups,
- Discussions on social exclusion, based on case studies and participant experiences,
- Empathy-building activities, including meetings with locals and discussions with people from diverse social backgrounds,
- Practical initiatives, aimed at raising awareness of environmental and social issues,
- Cultural exchange, allowing participants to share their traditions, languages, and customs.
Participant Feedback
The project left a lasting impression on participants, who shared their reflections:
🗣 “Diversity enriches us, and collaboration helps break down barriers.” – Mateusz Świstek
🗣 “One of the best Erasmus+ projects I have participated in! Great organization and a supportive atmosphere.” – Oleksandra Makarchuk
🗣 “Conversations with prisoners were incredibly valuable – they taught me empathy and understanding.” – Maja Czarnecka
🗣 “This is more than just a trip – it’s an opportunity to learn, be inspired, and grow.” – Amelia Grela
🗣 “Sharing meals and traditions created an atmosphere full of emotions and life lessons.” – Karolina Gromada
Conclusion
The Building Bridges project demonstrated the power of collaboration and mutual understanding. Participants not only gained new experiences and formed international friendships but also realized the importance of breaking stereotypes and actively engaging in their communities.
This event was not just an opportunity for learning but also an inspiration to continue building bridges – not only between cultures but also between people. 🌍✨
The project is co-financed by the European Union under the Erasmus+ program.