Project Information
Project Reference: 2025-1-DE04-KA152-YOU-000300624
Status: Completed
Duration: June 2025 – February 2026
EU Grant: €32,268
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Mobility of Young People
Countries Involved: Germany, Bulgaria, Romania, Netherlands, Hungary, Italy
Project Background
The YOUthONstage – Exchange2Change project was created to help young people reconnect through face-to-face communication in an increasingly digital world. Many young people spend a large part of their time online, which can reduce opportunities for real-life interaction and personal development.
The project also promoted environmental awareness, European values, and active citizenship. By bringing together participants in a rural mountain setting, it encouraged them to connect with nature, express themselves creatively, and build meaningful international friendships.
Project Objectives
The main goal of the project was to strengthen communication, creativity, and cooperation among young people from different countries. Participants explored topics such as human rights, European freedoms, environmental responsibility, and social inclusion.
Another important objective was to encourage self-confidence through artistic activities. The project showed that creativity can be a powerful tool for promoting tolerance, respect, and positive social change.
Participants and International Exchange
The project brought together 36 young people aged 18 to 30 from Germany, Bulgaria, Romania, the Netherlands, Hungary, and Italy. Each national group included a youth leader who supported the learning process throughout the exchange.
The participants represented different cultural and social backgrounds, including young people from rural areas and those with fewer opportunities. Their diversity created an inclusive atmosphere where everyone could learn from one another.
Project Implementation
The exchange took place in Chepelare, Bulgaria, using non-formal education methods that combined learning with creativity and teamwork. Participants worked together through theatre workshops, graffiti art, outdoor activities, and intercultural events.
The programme remained flexible to participants’ interests. For example, the planned music workshop was replaced with a graffiti workshop, allowing young people to express themselves in a way that better reflected their creativity while still achieving the project’s learning goals.
Creative and Environmental Activities
Theatre workshops guided participants through the entire creative process, from developing ideas to performing on stage. They also created graffiti artworks and wooden signs promoting anti-bullying, non-discrimination, and respect for diversity.
Nature played an important role throughout the project. Forest walks, group discussions, and sustainable daily habits encouraged participants to reflect on environmental protection and adopt greener lifestyles, such as reducing plastic waste and using reusable bottles.
Project Results
The final results were presented during the Tuka e Taka Festival 2025. Participants performed a live theatre production, displayed their graffiti artworks and eco-installations, and organised a flash mob featuring traditional dances from all six participating countries.
These activities attracted local visitors and helped spread messages about inclusion, environmental responsibility, and intercultural understanding. Every participant also received a Youthpass Certificate, recognising the skills gained during the exchange.
Impact on Participants and Organisations
The project helped young people improve communication, teamwork, public speaking, and creative thinking. Many participants reported greater self-confidence after performing in front of an audience and working in international teams.
Partner organisations also strengthened their experience in organising inclusive youth exchanges and creative learning activities. The cooperation established during the project created new opportunities for future Erasmus+ initiatives and international partnerships.
Long-Term Impact
YOUthONstage – Exchange2Change showed how creativity, nature, and intercultural dialogue can inspire young people to become more active members of their communities. The project encouraged participants to reduce excessive screen time, build stronger personal connections, and take responsibility for protecting the environment.
Its creative outcomes continue to inspire local communities, while the partnerships and friendships created during the exchange provide a strong foundation for future European youth projects.
