From the 10th to the 18th of March 2025, we had the opportunity to take part in an Erasmus+ project called ARTivism 4 Change, organized by Alternativi International. People from Bulgaria, Turkey, North Macedonia, Slovakia, Italy, and Romania all met in the small city of Bansko in Bulgaria. The main topics of this project were cyberbullying, hate speech, and discrimination. Through workshops, group activities, and games, we learned more about these issues.  

Our days were also filled with theatre and art, which, for many of us, meant stepping out of our comfort zones. But in the end, we all enjoyed it. 

The most interesting activity for us was creating graffiti, especially since none of us had ever done it before. We were more than happy when a professional graffiti artist visited us. He showed us his work, shared his story, and answered our questions. Then, we were divided into three groups—each group was given a topic to express through graffiti. It was quite challenging to come up with an idea and bring it to life, but with the guidance of the professional, we managed to create something meaningful. 

In the middle of the project, we had a free day, so everyone could choose how to spend it. Some people went skiing—even for the first time in their lives. Others went on a hike in nature or explored Bansko. But there were also those who used the day to recharge their batteries after several intense days full of activities. 

It was wonderful to meet people from different countries who later became our friends. We also learned about different cultures, especially during Cultural Night, where we had the chance to try traditional food and drinks. Our time there was filled with new knowledge, friendships, and unforgettable memories that we will never forget. 

Thanks to Alternativi International for organizing this wonderful project, and also to Youthfully Yours — without you, our participation wouldn’t have been possible.