The activities organised by the leaders were filled with laughter and joy, but there were also moments of nostalgia and self-reflection…
As a participant of the project, I experienced lots of adventures that made me more open to new people and challenges, and they taught me how to cope with unfavourable circumstances. During the exchange, I met wonderful people who talked about their culture, traditions and even their daily lives, which differ from each other. The activities organised by the leaders were filled with laughter and joy, but there were also moments of nostalgia and self-reflection. The Netherlands is a beautiful country, with its buildings and landscapes, so I’ll surely go back there someday.
Klaudia, Timescape, Ermstrand, the Netherlands
I was surprised by how much the Netherlands impresses with its harmony – cottages by the water, order, silence, bicycles and space…
I’ve learned the values of trust, openness, and living in the moment, thanks to the project. I was especially moved by the moment when we wandered without phones and money, asking strangers for food and accommodation. Although it initially seemed impossible and a bit scary, the people we met showed us a lot of heart. This experience restored my faith in human goodness.
I met fantastic people from all over Europe – from different cultures, with different values, but with the same need for closeness, laughter and authenticity.
I was surprised by how much the Netherlands can impress with its harmony – cottages by the water, order, silence, bicycles and space. However, I was even more surprised by the Dutch – they are open, helpful, and at the same time very calm and respectful of one’s privacy.
I’m incredibly grateful to LEVEL UP for allowing me to be a part of this project. I felt well-cared for – both before and during the trip. All the information was clear, the organisation was very professional, and the project itself gave me a sense of purpose and community.
My biggest barrier was control, and the fact that not everything can be planned. However, the beauty indwelt in its unpredictability.
One of the funniest moments happened when we split up in a small Dutch village and each of us was running around in pink vests, trying to find each other. The local people looked at us with a mixture of surprise and amusement – some of them took photos of us, having no idea who we were or what we were doing. We looked like a group of lost lifeguards searching for each other.
Finally, I’d like to thank both the organisers and the participants of the trip with all my heart. I felt like I was part of something greater, thanks to all of you – a community of young people who really want to change the world for the better.
Marta, Timescape, Ermstrand, The Netherlands
I’m grateful that I was able to take part in such a wonderful exchange. The Netherlands surprised me with its kindness, hospitality and beautiful views…
The project taught me independence and perseverance in difficult conditions. It also improved my self-confidence and my ability to speak another language. It broke down many of my barriers and allowed me to meet many wonderful people. I’m grateful that I was able to take part in such a wonderful exchange. The Netherlands surprised me with its kindness, hospitality and beautiful views. The organisers ensured we weren’t hungry, and we cooked delicious meals. I got very good support from LEVEL UP, as I could always turn to them if I needed anything. I’m grateful for my inner transformation, the wonderful people and the unforgettable moments.
Oliwia, Timescape, Ermstrand, The Netherlands
I learned many things about myself during the project: how far I can actually expand my boundaries, how to work and collaborate better in a group, how we act and how we can support each other instead of competing with each other…
“Timescape” was an unforgettable experience. The project was conducted in a completely different way from the ones I had participated in the past. The organisers ensured there was never a moment of boredom and provided us with interesting activities that let us gain knowledge we weren’t even aware we had acquired at the beginning. I learned many things about myself during the project: how far I can actually expand my boundaries, how to work and collaborate better in a group, how we act and how we can support each other instead of competing with each other. We also often discussed issues of coping with problems: how to recognise that some problem exists and that it should be solved for peace of mind. Thanks to my role as group leader, I also learned how to better support people around me, how to make appropriate and wise decisions and how to be less emotional.
I have wonderful memories of the organisers. The Cherry organisation consists of young people with passion, commitment, a sense of humour and heads full of ideas, thanks to which the project was carried out almost without any “mishaps”. The Level UP supported us every step of the way, both during the APV and the project itself.
My greatest issue was the Outdoor Experience, during which the organisers took our phones, money and documents, providing us with tents, sleeping bags and mats at the same time. Then, we had to spend three days in small groups, ensuring we had a place to sleep, food and transportation to our next destination. The limitations were my own head and the “I won’t be able to do that” thinking, which would often prevent me from taking action under normal conditions. As it turns out, I can do many things, deal with them and get through them. I’m extremely grateful for this experience because I discovered so many things about myself.
I’d like to thank the Level UP Association for the opportunity to participate in this adventure, the Cherry International Organisation for the excellent organisation and the wonderful time we had. I also thank my Polish team, Klaudia, Oliwia and Marta, who also made this time great.
Sonja, Timescape, Ermstrand, The Netherlands
