MIND THE MOUNTAIN

SUMMARY

JOETZ has years of experience in organizing camps and leisure activities for young people, both in Belgium and across Europe. With Mind the Mountain, we want to bring this experience into a youth exchange that focuses on connection, shared experiences, and personal reflection.

The mountain is at the heart of this project—not just as a physical environment in Norway, but as a symbol. Just like climbing a mountain, young people today face different obstacles in their lives. Through this exchange, participants are invited to explore these challenges in a supportive and international group, while enjoying the outdoors together.

This project is about finding a balance: between adventure and relaxation, between being active in nature and simply enjoying time with others. Participants will spend time hiking, discovering the Norwegian landscape, and taking part in outdoor activities, but also sharing stories, cultures, and perspectives with peers from across Europe.

Rather than focusing on concrete learning objectives, Mind the Mountain creates space for informal moments—around a campfire, during a walk, or in group conversations—where participants can reflect, connect, and grow at their own pace.

THROUGH THIS YOUTH EXCHANGE PARTICIPANTS WILL

• Spend time in nature and get familiar with basic outdoor skills such as: fire-making, navigation, outdoor cooking, basic first aid, backpack management

• Explore teamwork and communication through shared challenges in outdoor settings. 

• Learn how to use nature as a tool for mental well-being, both for themselves and the young people in their environment. 

• Experience the beauty of nature in Norway while taking part in accessible outdoor activities.

• Connect with young people from different European countries and cultures.

• Reflect on personal challenges and life experiences using the mountain as a shared metaphor. 

•  Enjoy a mix of group activities in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. 

• Create meaningful European memories through shared experiences and time spent together outdoors.

AIMS & OBJECTIVES

By learning to use outdoor environments effectively, participants will be able to experience engaging, safe, and meaningful group dynamics that enhance the development of young people. Through this youth exchange, we aim to: 

• Equip youth workers & youngsters with basic outdoor skills (e.g., fire-making, navigation, outdoor cooking, basic first aid, backpack management).

• Promote teamwork and communication by using nature as a setting for group dynamics.

• Increase awareness of outdoor education as a tool for inclusion, resilience and personal development.

• Strengthen mental well-being by exploring how nature can help balance stress, improve focus, and enhance group cohesion.

• To provide guidance, space & time for Belgian youth workers to develop outdoor activities for an international target group