From 23rd to 30th September 2025, young people from CEGE took part in the youth exchange “A Story of Us”, hosted in the picturesque mountain town of Bușteni, Prahova County, Romania. The project brought together young participants from Bulgaria, Romania, North Macedonia, Spain, and Croatia, with the goal of promoting inclusion, developing soft skills, and enhancing digital competences.

About the project

The exchange explored how stereotypes and “single narratives” shape our perspectives, often fueling the “us versus them” mentality. Through non-formal learning methods such as debates, theater of the oppressed, intercultural activities, and workshops on media literacy and fact-checking, participants learned to challenge biases and build more inclusive attitudes.

The experience

The days were filled with team-building sessions, creative storytelling, and intercultural sharing. Participants reflected on social and digital challenges, explored empathy and critical thinking, and developed skills to create digital stories as tools for combating prejudice. Beyond the structured sessions, the vibrant atmosphere of Bușteni and the hospitality at Vila Doi Ponei created an environment of connection, openness, and growth.

Our participants shared their impressions:

• Viktor Hovsepyan: “I made great memories and I am very glad that I attended this project. It helped me to be more mindful and I am glad that I could exchange experiences and opinions with people from different cultural and social backgrounds.”
  
  

• Radoslav Bratovanov: “One of the main things is that I can feel myself more understanding of people’s situations as well as I feel more confident when I talk in front of a crowd. The activities were very good and enjoyable. One of the best moments were during some of the activities as well as during the free time.”
  
  

Why it matters

For CEGE Association, this exchange was a valuable opportunity to empower young people to become more inclusive, reflective, and digitally aware. By working together across cultures, participants not only gained new competences but also forged friendships and networks that will continue beyond the project.

We are grateful to the hosting organization Egal Acces Association and to the Erasmus+ Programme for making such meaningful experiences possible.

Stay tuned for more stories from our projects and discover how youth exchanges shape active, empathetic, and empowered European citizens.