Lisbon played host to the final meeting of the European project Bright Careers, spanning from June 19 to 23, 2023. During this eventful week, numerous students and educators from partner schools congregated for a rich and collaborative experience. The overarching theme of the gathering was 'AT WORK,' delving into the diverse career opportunities available to students for their future endeavors. The hosting partner for this enlightening week was ETIC School. Attendees not only had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions but also participated in various activities aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding and exploring potential career paths.
Beyond the work-related activities, the participants also had the chance to explore the vibrant city of Lisbon and its surrounding towns and villages. It wasn't all business; there was ample time for cultural exploration and sightseeing, allowing everyone to experience the beauty and history of the region. The event welcomed participants not just from Portugal but also from Romania, Turkey, and Ireland, creating a truly international and enriching exchange of ideas, experiences, and cultural immersion.
On the first day, students kicked off the event with an engaging icebreaker activity that not only brought loads of fun but also helped boost their confidence and encouraged mutual acquaintance. They had the chance to get acquainted with ETIC School, its students, as well as the various facilities and equipment it offers. Additionally, they showcased the projects they had been diligently working on in the lead-up to this meeting, focusing on professions that were once considered endangered but are now emerging as promising career prospects. Following these presentations, students were grouped together, forming teams that comprised individuals from different countries, providing them with ample time to deepen their connections and get to know each other better.
On Tuesday morning, students embarked on an educational visit to the Museum of Communications, located right next to ETIC School. Here, they had the opportunity to delve deeper into the profession of a TV Reporter. In this engaging activity, students were tasked with crafting a news story and presenting it in a professional TV studio setting. These presentations were recorded for future reference and reflection.
Moreover, during their visit to the museum, students also had the chance to explore another profession - that of a museum director. They learned about the career journey of Patrícia Candeias, gaining valuable insights into the path she had taken to achieve her current role. This presentation proved to be particularly impactful, as it
underscored the importance of one's choices and highlighted the fact that life sometimes leads us down unexpected paths, different from those we initially envisioned.
In the afternoon, we embarked on a captivating visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa. The overarching theme of this visit was 'ONE PLANET, ONE OCEAN.' Here, students had the incredible opportunity to witness the majesty of the Oceanário's central aquarium, boasting an astonishing 5 million liters of saltwater.
In addition to this immersive experience, students attended a presentation by Margarida Fernandes, shedding light on a distinct profession - that of being a biologist. Margarida eloquently explained that a biologist is a scientist who delves into the study of organisms and their intricate relationship with the environment, inspiring students with the wonders of the natural world and the vital role biologists play in understanding and preserving it.
On Wednesday, the 21st, the students dove headfirst into a day of dedicated work. They began their day by receiving a comprehensive project briefing, outlining the objectives, challenges, and the collective vision they were tasked with.
Armed with their newfound knowledge and creative energy, the students teamed up to work collaboratively, brainstorming ideas, and strategizing on how to bring their project to life. The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm and determination as each team harnessed their unique skills and perspectives to contribute to the project's success.
Throughout the day, the students demonstrated their problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and a strong sense of teamwork as they took important steps towards realizing their shared goals. It was a day where inspiration met action, setting the stage for the innovative projects that would soon take shape as a result of their hard work and dedication.
Thursday was a day dedicated to culture, leisure, and exploring the beauty of Lisbon and its surroundings. On this day, students and teachers embarked on a memorable journey together by bus. They embarked on a scenic route that took them from Lisbon to the fantastic Carcavelos Beach, which graces the shores near Lisbon. From there, their adventure led them to the iconic Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where they marveled at breathtaking coastal views.
The day continued with a visit to the enchanting town of Sintra, known for its historic charm and magnificent architecture. Exploring the quaint streets and impressive landmarks, they soaked in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
As the day unfolded, everyone enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to connect with each other outside of the formal setting. It was a day filled with laughter, cultural exploration, and a deeper understanding of the people involved. By the end of this enjoyable excursion, participants returned to Lisbon, their hearts and minds enriched by the experiences of the day.
The final day marked the culmination of the students' hard work and dedication. It was a day of presentations, where each team had the opportunity to showcase the projects they had diligently developed. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as students and educators gathered to witness the fruits of their collaborative efforts.
Subsequently, the day concluded with an awarding ceremony, during which certificates of participation were presented to each country. This ceremony celebrated the dedication and collaborative spirit of all the teams, emphasizing the sense of unity and shared accomplishment among the participating nations. The certificates served as a meaningful token of the experiences gained and the international connections forged during the event.
We had an incredible week in Lisbon, bringing together students and teachers from Romania, Portugal, Ireland, and Turkey. It was the culmination of a project that held significant importance, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the students as they navigate their career paths.
The week was incredibly fruitful, exciting, and unforgettable. We not only achieved our project goals but also forged meaningful connections and friendships that will last a lifetime. This unique experience has not only broadened our horizons but has also enriched our lives, showing us the value of international collaboration and the power of shared knowledge and experiences. As we bid farewell to Lisbon and the project, we carry with us the memories of a week that has forever changed us and the friendships that will continue to thrive across borders.
The European Commission’s support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
project 2020-1-RO01-KA229-080037_5