Between 16th and 24th August 2024, a dynamic youth exchange project was held in Poronin, Poland, bringing together young participants from Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. The project, themed around promoting civic activity among youth, aimed to increase participants’ awareness of active citizenship and their roles in shaping Europe’s future. Throughout the nine-day programme, participants engaged in a range of activities including workshops on the history and importance of democracy, creative sessions on encouraging civic participation, and interviews with local residents in Zakopane.

The experience was enriched by cultural evenings where each national group presented their traditions, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. One of the highlights was the visit to Zakopane and Tatra National Park, offering a unique blend of learning and adventure. The group also worked collaboratively on creating a guidebook about democracy and developing a campaign to motivate young people to vote. The final days focused on promoting the project’s outcomes and reflecting on the learning experiences.

This exchange provided an invaluable opportunity for cultural exchange, personal development, and the enhancement of communication skills in a multicultural environment. Participants left with a deeper understanding of active citizenship and a strong motivation to contribute positively to their local communities.