APV+YE YOUth Balance
APV – February 27th to March 2nd, Călărași, Romania
From February 27th to March 2nd, a preparatory visit for group leaders of the YOUth Balance: Building LIFECOMP Skills Together project was held in Călărași. The project focuses on wellbeing and mental health, with an emphasis on building resilience, emotional regulation, and practical self-care skills among young people.
During the APV, we worked on shaping the program for the upcoming youth exchange. We discussed and approved proposed activities, explored additional ideas through brainstorming sessions, and focused on how to make the program both meaningful and engaging. We also clarified the roles and responsibilities of group leaders to ensure a smooth implementation of the project.
In addition to the working sessions, we explored the venue and its surroundings to better adapt activities to the space. The location, a large hotel by the river with a nearby beach, volleyball area, and a cozy bar, created a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We also had the opportunity to taste local food, which added to the overall experience.
After these productive and inspiring days, we feel well prepared and are already looking forward to the youth exchange.
YE – April 30th to May 9th, Călărași, Romania
The project YOUth Balance: Building LifeComp Skills Together took place in Călărași, Romania, a
beautiful place surrounded by nature and filled with welcoming people. When we arrived, the weather
was rainy and foggy. We were complete strangers, and many of us probably wished we were at home.
However, as soon as the next day arrived, everyone was ready to start fresh and fully engage in the
experience.
The project focused on living in balance, building meaningful connections, and developing empathy. On
the first day, we participated in team-building activities and group challenges, which I enjoyed very
much. They helped us break the ice, get to know one another, and create a positive atmosphere within
the group.
During the following days, we explored various methods of non-formal education. We took part in
breathing exercises, movement-based activities, group discussions, and individual reflection sessions.
Everyone was encouraged to express themselves freely in their own way, which brought us even closer
together. Many participants came to the project hoping to learn something new and gain a deeper
understanding of themselves, and I believe those expectations were fulfilled.
The learning sessions were very well organized and often emotionally powerful. I had the opportunity to
look deeply into myself, recognize my weaknesses, and reflect on my personal growth. The environment
felt safe and supportive, making it easy to open up and share personal experiences. The organizers and
facilitators played a huge role in creating this atmosphere, and they made me feel truly welcome
throughout the entire project.
Besides the educational activities, we also had free time to explore the beautiful surroundings of
Călărași. We spent time chatting, getting to know each other better, playing various games, learning
about different cultures, and simply relaxing by the beach while enjoying the sunny weather that
accompanied us for most of the project.
One day was dedicated mainly to relaxation, and we visited the seaside city of Constanța. This trip was
especially important because many of us were feeling tired and needed some time to rest and enjoy
ourselves with our new friends. It was a wonderful bonding experience that allowed us to learn more
about each other’s backgrounds and cultures. After returning, we felt refreshed, recharged, and even
more motivated to continue participating in the project activities.
The intercultural evenings were another highlight of the experience. Each national team prepared
presentations, games, and traditional food that represented their country in the best possible way. These
evenings were both entertaining and educational, giving us the opportunity to discover and appreciate
different cultures.
At the end of the project, we attended a talent show where everyone had the chance to showcase their
talents, both obvious and unexpected. Some performances were truly unique and memorable, including
creative talents such as whistling using a blade of grass.
Overall, this was the best project experience I have had so far, thanks to the amazing
participants, facilitators, and organizers. Throughout this journey, I gained valuable knowledge
about myself, my emotions, and my behavior—lessons that I will certainly apply in my future life.
In addition, I made many new friendships and created unforgettable memories that I will carry in my
heart forever.
