YE SKILLS4FUTURE
I had the amazing opportunity to take part in the Erasmus+ project called SKILLS4FUTURE, which took place from 7th to 14th April in Giovinazzo, Italy. The project was focused on soft skills development, and it brought together young people from several different countries for one unforgettable week.
What made this project special was that participants were involved in shaping the program even before the exchange began. Each country chose their own topic related to soft skills and prepared their own activity, which they then presented during the exchange. This meant that we were not just passive participants – we were actually co-creators of the whole program. Our Slovak team also prepared and led our own activity, which was a great experience in itself.
The exchange took place in a beautiful monastery right in the heart of Giovinazzo, a charming Italian town located near the sea. The setting was truly special and gave the whole experience a unique and peaceful atmosphere. Every day was full of interesting activities, workshops, and discussions where we could learn from each other and practice our soft skills in a real and natural way.
One of the highlights of the program were the cultural nights, where each country had the chance to present their culture to everyone. We got to try traditional food, see traditional clothing, watch dances, and learn about the traditions of each participating country. These evenings were always fun, warm, and full of laughter, and they helped us connect with each other on a deeper level.
Besides the activities at our accommodation, we also had the chance to explore the surroundings. We visited the beautiful town of Giovinazzo and also the city of Bari, both through fun activities that made discovering these places even more enjoyable. Walking through the streets of southern Italy, seeing the sea, and experiencing the local culture was something I will never forget.
The overall atmosphere of the project was very friendly and warm. From the very first day, everyone was open, kind, and willing to connect. By the end of the week, it felt like we had known each other for much longer than just a few days. I made new friends from different countries and I believe these friendships will last well beyond the project itself.
This experience taught me a lot – not only about soft skills, but also about myself, about other cultures, and about the world. I stepped outside of my comfort zone, tried new things, and came back home with a lot of inspiration and beautiful memories.
I would truly recommend an Erasmus+ project to anyone who is thinking about it. It is a chance to grow, to travel, to meet incredible people, and to bring home experiences that will stay with you for life. A big thank you to Youthfully Yours SKfor making this opportunity possible and for supporting young people in their personal development. I am very grateful to have been part of this project.