My memories of the training on ecology in Palermo are unforgettable.
This experience has brought me many valuable lessons, as well as has allowed me to make new friends and discover the fascinating culture of Sicily. One of the main insights I gained from this project was the importance of the global approach to environmental protection. During the exchange, I realized that ecology is not only the problem at the local level, but a global issue that requires international cooperation. During my stay in Palermo, I had a chance to meet many interesting people from different countries who shared my interest in ecology. I made friendships that I highly value and that contributed a lot to my worldview. The memory that developed me the most and I will always remember was the meditation I led, after which I got only positive feedback. The coordination of the project carried out by very talented Stella has also contributed to my positive assessment of this project. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a well-executed project. In short, 10 out of 10!
I highly recommend taking part in non-formal education mobilities because I think they are a completely different experience than regular learning. They allow you to acquire soft skills, give you the opportunity to meet many wonderful people and the chance to see a completely different culture.
Alan, 20 years old, Greener Youth, Training, Palermo, Italy
It was the first time I participated in such training, but certainly not the last!
The project Greener Youth in Palermo allowed me to find new ways of helping local communities in the field of ecology. Along with participants from different countries, we learned “green skills”, exchanged our experiences and, most importantly, had a great time. What I liked the most about the workshops was that we had to lead one ourselves. It allowed me to see that I am capable of handling such a task but also gave me a sense of self-agency and boosted my self-esteem. It was not my first visit to Italy, so each time my attention was caught by the problem with garbage. Tons of used plastic bottles, cups, bags, etc. piling up everywhere. During the project, while talking with citizens of Palermo, I learned how deep-rooted the problem is and how much effort must be invested in order to improve the situation. I am grateful for the amazing coordinator Stella, who from the very beginning made sure that everyone felt taken care of, solved any problems and always kept her finger on the pulse.
I recommend taking part in non-formal education mobilities because people conducting such trainings and workshops have a completely different approach from conventional institutions, so we have the opportunity to learn new and useful things. A different environment and international companionship is really beneficial to learning and allows us to get to know different points of view.
Alicja, 24 years old, Greener Youth, Training, Palermo, Italy
The project gave me not only a mass of memories, but most importantly, also a lot of useful knowledge that I will be able to use in other community projects.
We created workshops in groups in the broadly understood field of ecology. For the first time I participated in a project in which I could immediately use the theoretical knowledge I had gained in practice. After 9 days in Palermo, I’m confident that I’m able to create theme-based workshops that will engage all group members, developing their knowledge as well as their social skills.
Nevertheless, one of the key factors behind my satisfaction with the project was the efficient organization of the project. Stella, our project supervisor in Palermo, turned out to be the person who gave me a sense of security and confidence that the group atmosphere was based on inclusiveness, equality and friendship. A lot of exercises and group tasks helped the group to quickly break the ice and create a cohesive team. At the same time, Justyna from LEVEL UP was always there for us when we needed her advice and surrounded our Polish group with a lot of warmth and care.
Writing these memories while looking outside the window at Polish autumn, I also miss the atmosphere of Palermo. The Sicilian sun, even in October, did not disappoint. The fact that you could jump into the warm sea after a day of activities was a great motivation to give your best to the project! The outstanding issue of this project was food. Each day, we could choose a set lunch in one of the nearby restaurants and in the evenings we tasted local cuisine. Everything was organized by our supervisor Stella, for whose commitment I am very grateful.
However, what will stay with me forever are the friendships and memories of people who surrounded me. My Polish-Spanish-Czech-Greek friendships will stay with me for a long time. It was a group of people who were very open-minded and wanted to change our world for the better. Although my trip didn’t pass without adventures and after one of the evenings on the beach my phone stopped working, I could always count on the support of the group. I would like to especially thank Alicja, whose help on the spot was irreplaceable.
I encourage everyone to take part in the non-formal education mobilities, because it’s a great way to get to know yourself better and discover your new talents! In the new environment along with the support of the wonderful people, we are able to overcome our barriers and develop intercultural skills. Plus, there’s no better opportunity to foster so many international friendships! Thanks to them, our openness and tolerance are formed, which has a chance to change this world for the better.
Dawid, 24 years old, Greener Youth, Training, Palermo, Italy
