CulturalStorytellers

PROJECT SUMMARY

 

Ιn today’s increasingly interconnected world, communication, interaction, and personal contact across cultures are more essential than ever. These human connections are powerful tools in breaking down prejudice, fostering understanding, and promoting peace. As societies face complex challenges—from economic inequality and refugee crises to political apathy and social division—it becomes clear that only through mutual respect and cooperation can we build a more inclusive and sustainable future.
This project embraces the value of intercultural exchange as a means to empower individuals—especially young people—to become active, engaged citizens. By encouraging meaningful dialogue, openness to diversity, and real-life connection beyond the digital world, we aim to cultivate a generation that stands against extremism and indifference, and works towards unity, empathy, and shared progress.

OBJECTIVES

Promote social inclusion and cultural diversity Engage young people in cultural exchange and storytelling to fight stereotypes, appreciate diversity, and build mutual understanding.
Raise environmental awareness Encourage discussions around climate change and inspire lifestyle changes that contribute to a more sustainable and responsible way of living.
Foster participation in democratic life and civic engagement Educate participants about the role and values of the European Union and encourage them to actively participate in democratic processes, especially ahead of EU elections.
Support digital transformation and upskilling Introduce digital tools for storytelling and virtual collaboration, helping young people become more digitally literate and confident in using technology in their daily lives.

PARTNERS

Coordinator:

Stichting yEUth (Netherlands)

Partners:   

Asociación Creamos Europa (Spain)
Bolu Ticaret ve Sanayi Odasi (Turkiye)
Entrepreneurship and Social Economy Group (Greece)

Youthfully Yours SK (Slovakia)

MAIN DELIVERABLES

 Local dissemination activity:
 Participants’ testimonies
 Project’s recap video
 Local activities (each partner)
 Study Visit in Nijmegen
Digital Sustainability Guide

PROJECT ACTIVITIES PER DAY

DAY 1

On the first day of activities, we focused on getting to know one another and establishing a supportive and engaging learning environment. We began with a “Get to Know Each Other” session to build connections among participants and followed it with an introduction to Erasmus+ and the Youth Pass certificate to frame our learning journey. A self-improvement activity allowed us to reflect on our personal goals and growth. We then presented the program and discussed the rules and group agreements. Through the “Expectations and Contributions” activity, we shared what we hope to gain and what we can offer to the group. The day concluded with an evaluation session, followed by a vibrant Welcoming Party and an Intercultural Night dedicated to the Netherlands, during which participants prepared traditional Dutch dishes, creating a warm and interactive cultural experience.

DAY 2

On the second day of the project, we began exploring the theme of culture and its role in shaping identity and social interaction. The day started with activities and tools to support group and cultural development. In our first workshop, “What is culture and why is it important?”, we reflected on the concept of culture and its significance in our lives. This was followed by two parallel workshops: “Cultural Heritage Exchange,” where participants shared and celebrated elements of their cultural backgrounds, and “The influence of new communication technologies on human relationships and social inclusion,” which sparked meaningful discussions on the digital era’s impact on connection and diversity. The day concluded with an evaluation session and a lively intercultural night featuring Spain and Turkey, with participants sharing food, traditions, and stories from both cultures.

DAY 3

We delved deeper into cultural awareness and social dynamics on the third day through interactive workshops and creative expression. We began with the workshop “Narratives vs. Facts: Rumors, Urban Myths & Stereotypes,” exploring how misinformation and assumptions shape perceptions. This was followed by “Forces of Social Divide in Europe & Solutions,” a powerful session where participants discussed the factors contributing to division and proposed ways to foster inclusion. In the final activity, “A Stereotype Tells Its Story,” Participants presented stereotypes through storytelling and performance, creatively addressing prejudices. The day concluded with an evaluation session and an Intercultural Taste Evening featuring Greece and Turkey, where traditional flavors and hospitality brought everyone closer together.

DAY 4

On the fourth day, we shifted our focus toward sustainability and envisioned a greener future for Europe. We began with the creative session “Weaving Together the Fairy-tale of Our Green Future,” where participants imagined what a European green society could look like 15 years from now. Building on this vision, Workshop 5, “Making the Fairy-tale Come True,” encouraged participants to turn their ideas into realistic and actionable steps for change. In the interactive activity “We Go Zero,” we explored practical ways to reduce waste and promote a zero-waste lifestyle. The day concluded with an evaluation session and an Intercultural Taste Evening hosted by the Netherlands, where participants shared Dutch delicacies and culture in a cozy and festive atmosphere.

DAY 5

We connected our learning with real-life examples on the fifth day through a study visit and practical reflection. We travelled to Nijmegen for the activity “A City Tells Its Hidden Story”, where we explored how the city integrates sustainability and resilience into its urban life. This immersive experience offered new perspectives on local environmental practices and community initiatives. In the “Creating a Green Life: Changing for a More Resilient Way of Life” session, participants reflected on personal and collective lifestyle changes that support environmental sustainability. The day concluded with an evaluation and an Intercultural Taste Evening featuring Spain and Slovakia, filled with delicious food and vibrant cultural sharing.

DAY 6

On the sixth day, we explored the power of storytelling as a tool for expression, empowerment, and connection. In Workshop 6a, “Storytelling as a Means of Self- Empowerment,” participants used personal narratives to reflect on their identities and growth. This was followed by Workshop 6b, “Storytelling as a Means of Advocacy,” where stories were shaped into powerful messages for social change. In Workshop 7, “Cultural Sharing is Caring,” we celebrated diversity by exchanging cultural traditions and experiences, reinforcing the importance of empathy and understanding. The day ended with an evaluation session and a joyful Intercultural Night hosted by Greece and Slovakia, where traditional music, food, and dances brought the group even closer together.

DAY 7

The activities of day seven focused on empowering participants to take initiative through project management and creative cultural engagement. The day began with a session on Introduction to Project Management & Tools for Successful Youth Initiatives Planning, equipping participants with practical skills to turn their ideas into impactful actions. In “Cultural Storytellers in Action”, participants worked collaboratively to transform cultural elements into powerful narratives with a purpose. The evening featured a heartwarming Storytelling Night, where stories from diverse backgrounds came to life, creating an atmosphere of connection and reflection. The day concluded with a well-deserved dinner in Schaijk, offering a chance to relax and celebrate the group’s journey together.

DAY 8

The final day of the project was dedicated to bringing everything together through action, reflection, and celebration. Participants implemented the “Cultural Storytellers in Action” local activity, putting their planning and creativity into practice by engaging with
the local community. This was followed by the dissemination of the local activity and a reflective session on “The Self-Development Journey,” where participants connected their experiences with the eight key competences of the Youthpass. The final evaluation allowed everyone to share feedback and insights, followed by the Youthpass Ceremony and the emotional “Paper on the Back” activity, filled with kind words and personal messages. The day concluded with a meaningful Closing Circle Activity and a warm Farewell Dinner, marking the end of a transformative and inspiring journey.

PHOTO GALLERY

LATEST NEWS

LOCATION
Leiden, the Netherlands
HOURS
10:00 AM - 18.00 PM Monday - Friday
CONTACT US
yeuth.nl@gmail.com