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"YOUTH, SPORTS & BONFIRE"

Project's topics:
Cultural heritage, Physical And Mental Health, Well-Being, New Learning And Teaching Methods And Approaches
KA1 - YOUTH EXCHANGE

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The Erasmus+ youth exchange "Youth, Sports, and Bonfire" united 29 young people from Georgia, Estonia, Spain, and Ukraine in the picturesque surroundings of Rustavi and Chinti, Georgia. This vibrant gathering of participants, aged 18 to 30, was marked by a shared passion for outdoor activities, personal development, and a readiness to embrace new perspectives. Through an engaging blend of practical and theoretical sessions, the project fostered a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere where experiences were exchanged, and the principles of a healthy lifestyle were explored in depth.

Sport and non-formal learning methodologies became the foundation for encouraging participants to stay active and recognize the vital role of health in their lives. The program’s adventurous spirit was complemented by hikes, dynamic group activities, and meaningful discussions that enriched the participants' understanding of themselves and others. This journey of discovery left a lasting impact, inspiring open-mindedness, adaptability, and a commitment to personal growth.

Chapter 1: Projects Estonia and Spain, were all started

The origins of the "Youth, Sports, and Bonfire" project trace back to deep connections formed during previous youth exchanges. Our team first came together in Estonia in 2019 for the Youth Exchange Hearts of Culture, a project celebrating cultural diversity, and reunited in Spain in 2021 for a meaningful exchange on the Camino de Santiago, exploring its profound benefits for mental and physical health. These shared experiences inspired us to create a new initiative, bringing the same spirit of collaboration, learning, and personal growth to Georgia, uniting young people from rural areas to embrace new motivations and perspectives.

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Chapter 2: In the heart of Georgia 

The journey began in Tbilisi, a city where ancient traditions meet vibrant modernity.  Yet, the true essence of our adventure awaited beyond the city’s charm. The rugged peaks of the Caucasus loomed on the horizon, promising challenges and connections unlike any we had experienced before.

Our hosts from the Alternative Education Academy welcomed us with open arms. Archil, Gvantsa, and their team radiated the warmth of Georgian hospitality, making sure every participant—from the rural towns of Estonia to the bustling streets of Ukraine—felt at home. It was here that the project, "Youth, Sports, and Bonfire," truly came to life, offering us the first taste of the camaraderie and curiosity that would define the days ahead.

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Chapter 3: Challenges in the wild

The heart of the project lay in its outdoor activities, designed to push us beyond our comfort zones. Days were spent learning survival skills: how to light a fire, build a shelter, and tie knots that could withstand the wildest of winds. Georgian scouts guided us through these tasks, their expertise and patience turning each challenge into an opportunity for growth.

The highlight of this adventure was a trek to the ancient Jvari Monastery. As we climbed the steep trails, surrounded by the majesty of Kazbegi’s mountains, we bonded over shared struggles and triumphs. The view from the summit was breathtaking—a panorama of rolling peaks and timeless beauty that seemed to echo the spirit of our exchange.

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Chapter 4: Resilience in uncertain times

Among the participants were six girls from Sumy, Ukraine, who brought with them stories of resilience and hope amidst the ongoing conflict in their homeland. Their presence was a powerful reminder of why projects like these matter. In a world fraught with division, this exchange became a beacon of unity and understanding.

 

Through workshops and discussions, we challenged stereotypes and explored the strength found in diversity. The bonds formed during this week went beyond borders and language barriers, creating a network of support and friendship. By the end of the exchange, it was clear that the lessons we learned—about ourselves, each other, and the world—would stay with us long after we said our goodbyes.

Chapter 5: A journey to take home

As the exchange came to an end, we took time to reflect on everything we had learned. The week in Georgia was not just about hiking and enjoying the mountains—it was also about thinking deeply about our lifestyles. Are we taking care of our health? Are we staying active enough? Through workshops and group discussions, we shared ideas about what it means to live healthily in different cultures. Sports, outdoor activities, and even simple moments like preparing meals together showed us how small changes can make a big difference.

This experience was not only about personal growth but also about inspiring others. Each of us left Georgia with a mission: to share what we learned about healthy living and cultural understanding with our communities. We returned home ready to encourage others to stay active, take care of themselves, and value diversity. With our Youthpass Certificates in hand, we felt proud to be part of Erasmus+ and excited to organize more projects in the future.

As we said goodbye to the breathtaking landscapes of Georgia, we realized that the true journey was not the one we took in the mountains, but the one inside ourselves. We returned home with new friendships, valuable lessons, and a stronger belief in the power of working together across cultures. This is only the beginning of what we can achieve together.

" The atmosphere was stunning; I became more open to people from other languages and cultures. I learned new words, shared laughs, and left with unforgettable memories. Thank you for this amazing opportunity! "
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