During the pandemic time, we had to get used to online life. Last years affected people’s mental health, communication skills, and general well-being. People that experienced lockdowns, curfew hours, remote work in their countries, or self-isolation, especially during the summer, had an opportunity to spend more time in contact.
From July 28th till August 5th, the Erasmus+ project called „50 shades of communication” put together young people from Croatia, Greece, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Portugal, Sweden, Poland, and North Macedonia. Participants came to Djakovo (Croatia) to discuss online and offline communication advantages and, by sharing cultures, enjoy time together. We did different workshops for more than a week: created our presentations, learned reflection methods, strengthened team-building skills, and tried many ice-breaking games. At the end of the day, we had intercultural evenings. Some countries presented their national dances, tongue twisters, or specific phrases. And how without national food! Every country invited the participants to test their knowledge about every country each by doing a test.
One of the most critical discussions happened at the beginning of the project when every national team presented local youth activities and then discussed them. Participants were curious, and every presentation received many questions. Other workshops where we argued about nowadays communication also get a lot of attention. Moreover, the film based on the real story about cyber-bullying also made a significant reflection and left a deep impression. From self-reflection, it was exciting to detect my addictions and compare them with peers. Also, we tried some theatre methods that let us know each other better. We had lovely weather to explore the gorgeous city and stunning Dakovo Cathedral by performing various tasks
Indeed, all the competencies, knowledge, and experience that are gain during the project are invaluable. But what I love most and the best souvenir is all the memories you experienced with the very different people, but their hearts are very bright and sincere! Erasmus+ projects connect souls and build bridges between countries. This is what we really need after we are facing the world‘s division.
After the project, representatives of the Lithuanian team introduced the project to young people from the tiny municipalities in Lithuania – Kybartai and Mazeikiai. We explained what the Erasmus+ is and what is happening during the exchange. Also, we tried to describe the main idea of this project and what issues we tried to cover. After the presentation about activities that we have done in Djakovo, students seemed very interested cause they never heard about this type of participation.
