IDEIS Young Members participated in the Erasmus+ Exchange Programme in Italy

Last month, as young members of IDEIS, we participated in an Erasmus+ program in Italy. In collaboration with partners from five different countries, young people aged 18 and 30 had the opportunity to get to know each other’s cultures and connect throughout the project. Participants came from Italy, Croatia, Romania, Slovenia, Poland, and the Netherlands. 

Project Content 

In today’s world, societies are increasingly facing polarization, division, and racism. Support for both far-left and far-right parties is rising. It is becoming more difficult to have respectful conversations at the same table, where tolerance and peace prevail. Therefore, four professionals with backgrounds in art, music, and youth work came together to design a program focused on inclusion, creating a space for young people from different European countries to meet. This was done in a way that made everyone feel at home and able to participate. Through artistic and musical activities, we explored our unique ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.

Eating together, talking together, playing together, singing together, and discussing together brought the group closer and strengthened our bond.

Representing  Dutch Culture 

As IDEIS, we represented our country, shared cultural traditions and snacks, and gave presentations about the current situation of young people and what is being done in the context of inclusivity. Each group carried out presentations for their own country of origin. 

What’s Next 

This project was a special experience for us as young members of IDEIS. Each of us had the chance to grow, not only as individuals but also as members of the organization. The creative methods we learned in Italy are something we plan to implement in the Netherlands to promote a more inclusive society.

We look forward to future projects!