Erasmusdays 2023

Yes friends! We realised our Erasmusdays event 🙂

This year, on Saturday, October 14, 2023, we brang together a variety of youth institutions for you. In this way, young people had a chance to see many institutions and organizations together and participated in the workshops, presentations and interviews they were interested in.

Participated Organizations:

EUROPUBlic
Faal Derneği
Genç Düşünce Enstitüsü
Gençlik Mevsimi Derneği (Youth Season)
Hürriyet Masası
IAESTE Türkiye
İBB Gençlik ve Spor Müdürlüğü
İBB “Kampüste Çözüm”
İmece Network Eğitim ve Kültür Derneği
İstanbul Kent Konseyi Gençlik Meclisi
Nişantaşı Erasmus Kulübü
Öğrenme Tasarımları
Pulsec
Roman Hafıza Çalışmaları Derneği
T4 Technology Team
TOG – Toplum Gönüllüleri Vakfı
Uluslararası Aktif Şehirler Derneği
Yücel Kültür Vakfı

Realised Workshops:

11:00 “Youth Exchanges” İmece Network Eğitim ve Kültür Derneği
12:00 “Internship Abroad” IAESTE Türkiye
13:00 “Learning Designs” Öğrenme Tasarımları
13:00 “Erasmus and Philosophy” Hürriyet Masası
14:00 “Culture, Art & Youth” Yücel Kültür Vakfı
15:00 “What does Erasmus clubs add to students?” Nişantaşı Erasmus Kulübü
16:00 “ESC Humanitarian Aid Programme” Youth Season
17:00 “Volunteering Law” Genç Düşünce Enstitüsü
18:00 “Electronic Waste Inspection/Removal Workshop” Pulsec

The meeting took place between 11: 00-19: 00 on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at Şişli İBB Habitat Yaşam Merkezi in cooperation with İmece Network, İPA and İBB Youth and Sports Directorate.

Gallery will be here soon!

#erasmusdays #erasmus #ulusalajans #eurodesk #erasmusplus #imecenetwork #imece #ipaistanbul #ibbgenclikvespor

Training Course “ReACTion” in Pujalt

Between September 5th and 12th, four volunteers from İmece Network attended the training course organized by Back to the Roots Association. After the project, in which a total of 24 participants from 6 countries took part, let’s take a closer look at our volunteers’ thoughts about the project!

Here is Berra’s comment:

Hello.I’m Berra.From September 5th to 12th, I had the opportunity to travel to the beautiful town of Pujalt in Spain for an Erasmus+ Training Course. This experience took place as part of a project supported by the European Union and has become one of the most unforgettable memories of my life.

During the week I spent in this charming town, I had the chance to delve deep into the world of theatre. Throughout the course, we participated in various improvisation workshops.

The most memorable moments were the practical exercises. We worked on different games and performances to enhance our own theatre skills. Interacting with participants from other countries, we experienced a cultural exchange that broadened our perspectives.

This training course not only helped us better understand the art of theatre but also provided an opportunity to meet people from diverse cultures and form new friendships.

This experience reaffirmed the value of European Union cultural exchange projects. The theatre training course in Pujalt was highly enriching for me, both personally and professionally. I look forward to participating in future projects and hope for these experiences to be shared with even more people.

Ahmet expresses his experience as follows:

This experience took place within the scope of a project supported by the European Union and it was an incredible experience for me.

During the week I spent in this town, we did many theater-related activities and I learned a lot about theatre. During the course, we took theater-related improvisation classes. The improvisational theater experience has helped me a lot, not only on stage but also in all areas of life. It improved my ability to make split-second decisions, increased my self-confidence, and taught me what an enriching experience it is to work with people from different cultures. We worked on different plays and performances to improve our theater skills. We had a cultural exchange with our friends from other countries and I learned different things.

With this training, I learned a lot about theater and made great friends. As a result, the improvisational theater experience I had during the Erasmus event in the town of Pujat, Spain, became one of the most valuable memories of my life. It improved my ability to express myself, helped me make new friends and gave me the opportunity to better understand different cultures. This experience will remain an adventure I will always remember.

Here is Mert’s comments:

During the week I spent in Pujalt, we delved into the depths of the art of theatre. Throughout the course, we received various improvisation lessons, and, more importantly, engaged in hands-on activities to enhance our theatre skills. We worked on different plays and performances, fostering our creativity and expressive abilities. Additionally, interacting with participants from different countries enriched us with a cultural exchange, providing us with different perspectives.

This training course not only helped us gain a deeper understanding of the theatre arts but also offered the opportunity to meet different cultures and forge new friendships. This experience reaffirmed the value of European Union cultural exchange projects. The theatre education course in Pujalt was highly productive for me, contributing to both personal and professional development. I look forward to participating in future projects and hope that such experiences can be shared with more people.

As participants of the project, we would like to thank our organization İmece Network and the project owner @backtotheroots.eu.
Organized by: @s.hcli

Trekking in Belgrade Forest

On the morning of 2nd of September we went to a journey to the untouched natured located close, but still far enough from the busy streets of Istanbul. 

The group gathered at the Fatih Belediyesi at 10am. The group was big, 22 people came and a one tiny poppy, that quickly became everyone’s favorite. When we arrived at the Belgrade Forest we took a little coffee break and then stared walking.

During the first part of our walk was the easier cause there weren’t lots of hills so we could causally talk to each others, getting to know the whole group, exploring the forest and the beautiful nature that we often forget to pay attention. Along with our group poppy a three local dogs joined our team and started walking with us. After two hours of walking we had a lunch break. The lunch and the water, as well coffee, was provided by municipality of Fatih. While enjoying our delicious lunch we had a chance to admire the beautiful nature and the wonderful lake. Where we took a few pictures.

Later on we continued our walking, this time with a little more obstacles. New hills to clime up, streams to jump over, but we done it all successfully. Now we became almost a professional at trekking. The whole time trekking we got a chance to meet up new people, catch up with old friends and spend a nice time while being active.

Our walk ended at 2pm and then we slowly started walking to the bus, who was waiting for us to get us back to the Fatih. While we were still tired from the walking the good vibe and talk kept on. We hope that the group will keep growing and that we will go on lots of adventures like this one!

Youth Exchange “The Art of Photography: Diversity and Inclusion”

A mobility period took place in May 2023, in Horezu, Romania, where participants engaged in cultural exchange and collaborative efforts. Through non-formal activities, the project focused on enhancing the quality of youth services, promoting inclusion and diversity, and developing essential skills.

Objectives:

  1. Strengthening Organizational Capacity: Three organizations, including a new one, improved their operational capacity through project activities.
  2. Promoting Inclusion and Diversity: Over 30 young individuals, participated in workshops, exhibitions, and awareness campaigns to challenge discrimination and promote inclusivity.
  3. Skill Development for the Community: Ten practical activities, including workshops and exhibitions, enabled young participants to acquire new skills and contribute positively to their communities.

Participants prepared presentations showcasing their countries’ traditions and attractions. They explored inclusion and diversity through photos, videos, and other creative means.

The project successfully empowered youth, strengthened organizations, and promoted inclusion and diversity. The mobility period provided a platform for cultural exchange and collaborative efforts to combat social barriers. Through their participation, the youth became change-makers in their communities, fostering a more inclusive future.

Youth Exchange in Timisoara

Timisoara, Romania, was a hub of youthful peacemakers from Portugal, Romania, Turkey, and the UK from November 21 to November 27, 2022. These aspirant community educators and future reconciliation workers benefited greatly from the RESOLVE: Play 4 Peace event.

The program sought to give participants the skills needed to resolve interpersonal conflicts and deal with social conflicts on a local level through encouraging multicultural experiences, improving skills, and promoting understanding. Three boys and three girls from Imece Network participated in the event, and they recounted their motivational journeys of self-discovery and new connections.

One of the most impactful aspects of projects like “RESOLVE: Play 4 Peace” is the opportunity to interact with cultures previously unfamiliar to participants. Fatih acknowledges the significance of these encounters, stating, “These projects help me interact with cultures that I have never encountered before in a short time.” Through engaging with diverse perspectives, the participants expanded their horizons, challenged their preconceptions, and developed a deeper understanding of global issues.

RESOLVE: Play 4 Peace provided an environment that encouraged participants to venture beyond their comfort zones, fostering personal development and cultivating the skills necessary to address social conflicts within their communities.

Through their experiences, participants discovered the profound importance of peace and the power of cultural exchange in overcoming personal conflicts and addressing social challenges. As they continue on their journeys, these young peace builders are equipped with the skills, understanding, and passion to create positive change in their communities and beyond.

Youth Exchange in London

From October 30 to November 5, 2022, London, UK became a hub of youthful energy and global connections as the RESOLVE: Play 4 Peace youth exchange took place. This transformative program brought together young participants aged 18-25 from various countries to develop essential non-cognitive skills and engage in activities centered around peacebuilding.

The exchange presented an exclusive chance for participants to establish meaningful connections with peers hailing from diverse backgrounds. They had the privilege to fully immerse themselves in the dynamic and lively culture of London. Moreover, the exchange empowered them to initiate and launch social action activities within their own communities, making a positive impact on the world around them.

In the lively metropolis of London, the exchange unfolded, immersing participants in a captivating cultural journey. The organizers thoughtfully curated a series of formal meals and events to enrich the participants’ cultural immersion. The Welcome Lunch, Cultural Night, and Farewell Dinner provided the perfect backdrop for participants to build connections, foster bonds, and gain a deep appreciation for the vibrant tapestry of London’s diverse culture.

Youth Exchange in Istanbul

Let’s take a moment to look back on the incredible event called RESOLVE: Play 4 Peace that took place in Istanbul, Turkey. It was an amazing journey that brought together young people from different places, and here’s what made it so special.

During the event, participants had the opportunity to explore the fascinating city of Istanbul. The streets were lively, the markets were colorful, and the buildings were breathtaking. It felt like stepping into a magical world where history and tradition came to life.

One of the highlights of the event was the chance to make a positive impact on the local community. Participants joined in a treasure hunt, visited organizations doing good work, and enjoyed a delightful picnic. They also celebrated their diverse cultures and engaged in meaningful conversations, creating a sense of unity and understanding.

RESOLVE: Play 4 Peace was an unforgettable event that united young people from diverse backgrounds. The exploration of Istanbul, the fun and interactive learning, and the collective effort to make a difference left a lasting impression on everyone involved. While the event has come to an end, the memories and lessons learned will continue to shape the participants’ lives.

Youth Exchange in Cascais

The power of youth in promoting peace and fostering understanding across cultures cannot be underestimated. On 12-18 September 2022, a transformative youth exchange program, RESOLVE: Play 4 Peace, took place in the beautiful coastal town of Cascais, Portugal.

This initiative provided a unique platform for young peacebuilders from the United Kingdom, Turkey, Portugal, and Romania to come together, learn from one another, and develop the skills necessary to create positive change in their communities. Over the youth exchange of a week, 30 participants, including three girls and three boys from Turkey, immersed themselves in a journey of personal growth and intercultural exploration.

By emphasizing the use of dialogue, meditation, play, and sport for development, the program aimed to foster understanding, overcome gender inequalities, and empower participants to become effective social leaders within their communities.

Training Course “The Road to Recovery” in Pamporovo

Spiritual and mental healing was the main goal of the project that took part in Pamporovo, Bulgaria. Young people from 8 different countries faced their fears and learned how to get through them.

The project was held between the 8th and 14th of August. Imece was represented by 3 people. The project aimed to improve the opportunities for the personal and professional realization of young people after the global pandemic, by building healthy habits, improving their motor skills and understanding the factors influencing all aspects of the physical, spiritual and emotional development of the individual. 24 participants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Turkey, Ukraine and Bulgaria spent 7 days together in the middle of nature and talked about their lives during a pandemic.

“We had very good days from the first day of the project. We bonded with each other and shared our feelings. I especially liked the activity we imagined we were on the ship. I realized what I wanted to do with my life”, shares Cemile.

Other participants agree that this time was unforgettable. Sumeyra adds: “It was so nice to meet people who can understand what you feel, what you have been through during coronavirus days. As it always happens in Erasmus+ Projects; we didn’t want to say goodbye to each other on the last day. However, we know that we will always remember and support each other even if we can’t meet again, thanks to this project”.

Training “CLAIM IT” in Mugla

Our volunteer – Rumeysa took part in the training in Fethiye Oludeniz. The main goal of the project is to increase dialogue between public institutions and youth organizations at the national and international levels.

The first part of the training took place between 1st and 7th August. A group of young people gathered together to discuss the importance of youth organizations, their role in the country and cooperation with public institutions. The training was given by GoFor – Youth Organizations Forum in Turkey.

“We learnt about public resources and EU funds that we can use in this programme in the days of public resources and civil society relationship, as well as EU funds, being international public resource”, says Rumeysa. It is worth nothing that according to the Mapping and Needs Analysis Report of Youth Organizations in Turkey, prepared in 2021 by GoFor, of which we are one of the member associations, 6 out of 10 youth organizations find their cooperation with public institutions almost non-existent or insufficient.

During the training, participant had a chance to learn also about legislation for civil society. “I think we will better understand that in the second part of the project, which will take place in Ankara”, adds Rumeysa.