Stories from the Training Course "RELOCATION INTEGRATION AND SUPPORT FOR EMPOWERMENT - RISE"
Between 18th of July to 24th of July, youth workers from Bulgaria joined the Training Course "RELOCATION INTEGRATION AND SUPPORT FOR EMPOWERMENT - RISE" below you can find a few words from them.
Mila:
The training in Malaga was an incredible experience for me, both personally and professionally. It wasn’t just about learning new information; it was about truly understanding the importance of inclusion and integration, especially for students coming from different cities or countries. The sessions were very interactive, and we had the chance to discuss real-life situations, which made the learning process even more engaging.
One of the key things I took away from the training is the importance of making everyone feel welcome, regardless of their background. We talked a lot about the challenges that students face when they move to a new place, especially those who come from other countries. They often struggle not only with language but also with adapting to a new culture, new ways of doing things, and sometimes even a different education system. I realized how important it is for schools and universities to provide a support system that helps these students integrate smoothly.
In Malaga, we also explored different strategies for promoting inclusion. We learned that it’s not enough to just welcome new students on their first day; we need to create an ongoing environment of acceptance and support. One of the ideas that really stood out to me was the concept of peer support, where students are encouraged to help each other adjust and feel more comfortable. I believe this is a very practical approach that can easily be implemented in any school or university.
Another aspect of the training that I found valuable was the emphasis on communication. It became clear to me that open, honest communication is key to creating a more inclusive environment. Whether it’s through conversations, group activities, or events, we need to encourage dialogue between students from different backgrounds. This not only helps break down stereotypes but also allows students to learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives.
Overall, the training has inspired me to take an active role in promoting inclusion in my own community. I feel more confident now in organizing activities and discussions that will help raise awareness about the importance of integration. I believe that by working together, we can create schools and universities where everyone feels like they belong, no matter where they come from.
Aglika:
This summer, I had the chance to be part of an Erasmus+ project in Malaga focused on integration, and it was an incredible experience. The project brought together participants from various countries, all with the shared goal of promoting better integration in schools and communities.
Throughout the program, I learned so much about the challenges newcomers face when adapting to new environments and how we can help make that process smoother.
The workshops and activities were both informative and interactive, offering practical insights on how to build more inclusive and supportive spaces for students arriving from different places. We explored how peer support and community-building can play key roles in helping people feel like they belong.
What made the experience truly memorable, though, was the people I met. We quickly bonded, sharing stories, ideas, and experiences from our different backgrounds. The atmosphere was positive and collaborative, and by the end of the project, I had made lifelong friends. We also had time to explore the beautiful city of Malaga, which was a perfect bonus to an already enriching experience.
Overall, the project was not only educational but also a lot of fun. It left me feeling inspired to bring the ideas of integration back to my own community and schools, and to continue working toward creating more welcoming environments for everyone.
Vesi:
One of the most interesting things that happened to me this summer was the opportunity to participate in an Erasmus project in Malaga. Although we were from different countries, we were of the opinion that integration in universities and schools is extremely important for both mental health and socialization. The discussions and methods they taught us were very useful and we hope to be able to help as many people as possible with the activities after the project. In addition to serious work, there was a lot of entertainment, music, evening walks and long conversations. We also had the opportunity to explore Malaga and taste traditional cuisine. I am glad that I was part of this project.
Erika:
reflection on my time on project. My time in Rincon de la Victoria, Malaga was absolutely unforgettable. It wasn't just the beautiful surroundings, the beach days, or the walks around Rincon and Málaga. It was the people I met there who truly made it so special for me. Every conversation, whether brief or deep, added something unique to the experience. I bonded with some great people, sharing late-night talks, playing games, and telling stories that opened my
mind to new perspectives. The daily seminars were definitely a new thing for me. I learned so much about the challenges migrants face when starting a new life in a different country or even just a new city, which gave me a deeper appreciation for their resilience. It made me see the problem and made want to help battle it. Overall, this Erasmus project gave me memories, friendships, new insights, and a broadened understanding of the world around me. I am so grateful that I got the chance to experience all of this.
