SYWOR

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Driving Transnational Youth Impact: SYWOR Project Reaches Milestone Mid-Term Review

Driving Transnational Youth Impact: SYWOR Project Reaches Milestone Mid-Term Review

On the 4 May, the SYWOR project reached a critical juncture as NGO Young Agents of Change and its international partners convened an online mid-term evaluation meeting. Marking the exact midpoint of the project’s implementation lifecycle, the session served to rigorously analyze the strategic milestones achieved across five countries, assess measurable community impact, and calibrate future operational frameworks to maximize sustainable outcomes.

In alignment with our core mission to champion youth empowerment, sustainable development, and social cohesion, the SYWOR initiative continues to build robust pathways for young citizens across Europe and the Eastern Partnership. By focusing on cross-border capacity building and systematic advocacy, this transnational cooperation ensures that the next generation is not merely a passive beneficiary, but the central force driving community transformation. Today’s mid-term evaluation proved that despite changing geopolitical and social climates, the consortium’s collaborative infrastructure remains highly resilient and impactful.

Measurable Impact and Key Achievements

The comprehensive data aggregation presented during the session demonstrated exceptional operational velocity and high target compliance, validating the efficiency and strategic resource allocation of the project:

  • Accelerated Direct Engagement: The initiative has successfully mobilized 633 direct participants across targeted youth demographics. This accounts for over 80% of the absolute project benchmark of 790 individuals, achieved well ahead of the concluding operational phases.
  • Exponential Digital Advocacy: Through targeted media campaigns and structured digital communication strategies, public awareness regarding youth rights and inclusion reached approximately 189,000 individuals, fostering extensive civic discourse online.
  • Exemplary Project Governance: International partners evaluated the operational synergy and structural coordination of the project at an outstanding 9 and 10 points out of 10, explicitly recognizing the high professional standard of coordination maintained by the leadership team.

Strategic Horizons: Inclusivity, IDPs, and Future Implementations

With the foundational metrics successfully secured, the second half of the SYWOR implementation cycle will shift towards deepening qualitative impacts and scaling institutional sustainability. A primary focus of the upcoming phase is the strategic reinforcement of inclusivity frameworks, specifically optimizing outreach and support mechanisms for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and marginalized youth cohorts who require tailored socio-civic integration.

The consortium solidified an ambitious operational roadmap for the upcoming months, focusing on several high-impact benchmarks:

  • Analytical Accountability: Comprehensive preparation and finalization of the formal project mid-term progress report for institutional stakeholders.
  • Knowledge Management: The publication of a comprehensive methodological handbook designed to serve as a sustainable open-access resource for regional youth workers and civil society organizations.
  • Transnational Mobility: Execution of the highly anticipated youth exchange program in Sakartvelo, focusing on intercultural dialogue and peer-to-peer capacity building.
  • Capacity Building & Action: Deployment of specialized grassroots information campaigns alongside an intensive professional training seminar scheduled in Turkey.

About the Project

The course was part of the SYWOR project, implemented by Young Agents of Change in collaboration with:

The project is funded by the European Union and aims to strengthen youth workers and organizations involved in supporting displaced young people through capacity building and cross-border collaboration.

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Multiplier Events in Poland and Moldova: strengthening practical youth work for displaced young people

Multiplier Events in Poland and Moldova: strengthening practical youth work for displaced young people

In November and December 2025, SYWOR multiplier events were organised in Poland and Moldova, bringing together youth workers, NGO representatives, educators, and social workers to explore practical approaches to supporting displaced young people.

Both meetings focused on presenting and testing the SYWOR Handbook for youth workers, encouraging participants to translate theory into everyday youth work practice and adapt tools to local realities.

Multiplier Event in Moldova

On 13 December 2025, an SYWOR Multiplier Event was held in Chișinău to present and disseminate the newly developed Handbook for Youth Workers on working with displaced youth.

The event gathered 38 youth workers from across Moldova, including participants from Chișinău, Bălți, Cahul, and other regions. The diverse participation reflected a shared commitment to strengthening youth work practices in response to the ongoing needs of displaced young people from Ukraine.

Structured learning and hands-on practice

The day began with registration and informal networking, followed by an introduction to the Erasmus+ KA2 SYWOR project and discussion of the current situation of displaced youth in Moldova.

A guided walkthrough of the handbook allowed participants to explore its structure, core methodologies, and the Romanian translation, ensuring accessibility for local professionals. The session clarified how trauma-informed care and cross-cultural communication are embedded within the SYWOR framework.

The central part of the day was the interactive workshop “Tools in Action.” Participants tested specific resilience-building exercises from the handbook, experiencing them not only as facilitators but also as participants. This practical format helped youth workers better understand how to apply the tools in real settings.

In the afternoon, a panel discussion addressed challenges and opportunities related to integrating displaced youth within Moldovan communities. The round-table session on implementation strategies encouraged participants to reflect on how to integrate the handbook’s methods into their daily work.

Multiplier Event in Poland

On 20 November 2025, Fundacja Nowy Staw (Poland) organised a multiplier event under the theme: «Stronger Together: Building Belonging and Empowerment for Displaced Youth». The meeting gathered 20 participants and focused on reflection, discussion, and practical application of ideas presented in the SYWOR publication.

The event opened with an introduction to the SYWOR project and the objectives of the meeting, followed by a presentation of the SYWOR handbook for youth workers.

Three thematic discussion blocks structured the day:

  1. Sense of belonging and identity
  2. Support, relationships and community
  3. Empowerment and practical tools

Strengthening local youth work across borders

Although organised in different contexts, the multiplier events in Poland and Moldova shared a common purpose: ensuring that SYWOR resources do not remain theoretical outputs but become practical instruments for youth workers on the ground.

By combining structured presentations, thematic discussions and hands-on workshops, both events strengthened professional skills, encouraged local adaptation of tools and reinforced cooperation between organisations working with displaced young people.

About the Project

The course was part of the SYWOR project, implemented by Young Agents of Change in collaboration with:

The project is funded by the European Union and aims to strengthen youth workers and organizations involved in supporting displaced young people through capacity building and cross-border collaboration.

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SYWOR Staff Meeting in Lublin: From reflection to action

SYWOR Staff Meeting in Lublin: From reflection to action

The SYWOR staff meeting of partner organisations, held in Lublin, Poland, brought together youth workers from five countries for an intensive exchange of experience, reflection, and joint planning to support displaced young people in local communities.

The first moments of the meeting were about connection. Before discussing projects or policies, participants took time to get to know one another, build trust, and create a working atmosphere where openness felt natural. When organisations began sharing their experiences from Ukraine, Turkey, Georgia, Moldova, and Poland, the room filled with stories, — about young people affected by displacement, about youth workers navigating limited resources, and about communities learning how to welcome newcomers. Despite different national contexts, many challenges overlapped, making it clear that cooperation across borders is necessary.

A strong emphasis was placed on intercultural learning and the idea of belonging. Through discussions and creative group work, participants explored what concepts such as culture and “home” mean for refugees and IDPs. These conversations helped deepen understanding of what young people leave behind. It is not only about moving from one place to another, but about losing familiar routines, languages, and support systems, while trying to adapt to new ones. These reflections helped youth workers rethink their approaches and better understand what young people need the most.

Another important part of the meeting was dedicated to organizational development. Partner organizations reflected on their own sustainability, looking at values, activities, and resources. This process led to the creation of concrete action plans, with each organization defining steps to be implemented in the upcoming 6 months to strengthen their work with displaced young people.

The human aspect of youth work was addressed during a workshop on trauma-sensitive and inclusive practices. Together with a psychologist, participants discussed crisis situations, emotional resilience, empathy, and communication methods such as motivational dialogue and reflective listening. The session emphasised the importance of caring not only for young people, but also for youth workers themselves.

The meeting concluded with reflection on the future of the SYWOR project. Partners shared their vision for the next year, building on the action plans developed during the meeting.

About the Project

The course was part of the SYWOR project, implemented by Young Agents of Change in collaboration with:

The project is funded by the European Union and aims to strengthen youth workers and organizations involved in supporting displaced young people through capacity building and cross-border collaboration.

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Local seminars in Chișinău, Moldova: Twisted stories & Club for girls

Local seminars in Chișinău, Moldova: Twisted stories & Club for girls

As part of the Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience (SYWOR) project, two local seminars were held in Chișinău, Moldova during June and July 2025. 

«Twisted Stories» – Critical Thinking Through Interactive Storytelling

The seminar took place on 20 June 2025 in Chișinău with 14 teenagers aged 14–17 and was facilitated by Valeria Zolotari.

The seminar invited teenagers to explore the impact of choices through interactive storytelling. Using scenarios that presented dilemmas and multiple outcomes, participants practiced analyzing situations, generating options, predicting consequences, and reflecting on responsibility.

The session followed a structured agenda, including three story-based activities, each focusing on different aspects of decision-making and consequence analysis. Group reflection at the end helped consolidate learning and encouraged participants to connect personal responsibility with teamwork and empathy.

Key results:

  • Improved ability to justify decisions and explore alternative outcomes.
  • Stronger teamwork and communication in problem-solving.
  • Increased awareness of how choices affect others and build responsibility.
  • Safe psychosocial space (PSS) that encouraged openness and empathy.

Although some participants were initially hesitant to share, energizers and interactive methods helped create trust. By the end, all participants engaged actively and reflected on the importance of thoughtful decision-making.

Club for Girls: «The Girl and Her Dreams / My Boundaries – My Strength»

The second seminar was held on 18 July in Chișinău with 14 girls aged 13–17, all displaced from Ukraine and was facilitated by Iulia Voscalevschi.

The Club for Girls seminar focused on empowerment, resilience, and self-discovery. Designed specifically for Ukrainian girls displaced by war, the event combined creative and reflective activities to strengthen confidence and inspire future-oriented thinking.

Through trust-building exercises, sharing circles, and a visualization activity on canvases, the girls explored their strengths, dreams, and the steps needed to achieve them. The session emphasized the importance of boundaries, personal resources, and peer support.

Key results:

  • Girls identified personal strengths and areas for growth.
  • Creative visualization made dreams more concrete and motivating.
  • Planning activities helped translate aspirations into realistic steps.
  • Taking canvases home served as a daily reminder of motivation and resilience.

Feedback showed that the artistic format was especially impactful: many girls said the workshop helped them “see their dreams with their own eyes,” while the supportive group atmosphere provided encouragement and inspiration.

Impact

Together, these two seminars highlighted how SYWOR activities foster resilience, inclusion, and self-expression among young people, especially those affected by displacement. 

Whether through critical storytelling or creative visualization, the sessions gave participants practical tools to strengthen decision-making, self-awareness, and emotional wellbeing — laying the foundation for more confident and connected communities.

About the Project

The course was part of the SYWOR project, implemented by Young Agents of Change in collaboration with:

The project is funded by the European Union and aims to strengthen youth workers and organizations involved in supporting displaced young people through capacity building and cross-border collaboration.

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Stronger Together: A Transformative Youth Work Training in Moldova

Stronger Together: A Transformative Youth Work Training in Moldova

📅 May 25 – June 1, 2025

📍 F’estival, Moldova

Recently, a vibrant group of youth workers returned from a week-long international training course “Stronger Together” held in the scenic location of F’estival, Moldova. The training was part of the SYWOR project (Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience), co-funded by the European Union.

Over the course of seven intense days, participants from Ukraine, Moldova, Turkey, Georgia and Poland came together to exchange experiences, explore innovative youth work practices, and deepen their understanding of how to support displaced youth and young people with fewer opportunities.

Core Topics Explored

  • Designing inclusive and impactful activities for youth from vulnerable groups.
  • Tools and strategies for integrating displaced youth into new communities.
  • Creating emotionally safe environments and offering meaningful emotional support.
  • Increasing youth engagement and participation using practical, resource-based approaches.

Strengthening the role of youth work in building social cohesion and community resilience.

Methods and Activities

The training embraced non-formal education methods including:

  • Interactive workshops and role-playing scenarios based on real-life youth work challenges.
  • Intercultural teamwork to foster empathy and cooperation across contexts.
  • In-depth discussions on ethical dilemmas in youth work.
  • Co-creation of original youth workshops tailored to local realities.

Field visits to inspiring local initiatives in Chișinău: the Sunflower Center and the office of MilleniuM Training and Development Institute, offering real-life examples of community-based youth support in action.

Community & Impact

Beyond skill-building, “Stronger Together” succeeded in something just as essential — forming a strong, supportive professional community. For many youth workers, this was a space of solidarity, shared understanding, and mutual learning — values that lie at the heart of inclusive youth work.

Participants left not only with new tools and knowledge but with a renewed sense of purpose and concrete ideas for integrating what they’ve learned into their home communities.

About the Project

The course was part of the SYWOR project, implemented by Young Agents of Change in collaboration with:

The project is funded by the European Union and aims to strengthen youth workers and organizations involved in supporting displaced young people through capacity building and cross-border collaboration.

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Empowering Youth Workers through Language: Free English Course Launched in Moldova

Empowering Youth Workers through Language: Free English Course Launched in Moldova

As part of the SYWOR Project (Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience), the MilleniuM Training and Development Institute, a prominent Moldovan NGO, has successfully launched a Free English Course tailored specifically for youth workers from NGOs and Youth Centers in Moldova. This initiative aims to enhance communication skills and empower youth workers to engage confidently on an international level. 

Goals and Vision

The course is designed to provide participants with essential tools to improve their English proficiency, boosting their confidence in international communication. By equipping them with relevant language skills, the course paves the way for effective cross-border collaboration and professional growth. The initiative is not just about learning a language; it is about building a resilient community of empowered youth workers prepared to face new challenges and seize global opportunities.

Course Highlights

The course is structured to ensure maximum engagement and personalized learning, featuring:

  • Three lessons per week, combining online and offline sessions to accommodate diverse learning preferences.
  • A small group setting with a maximum of 15 participants, fostering a more interactive and supportive learning environment.
  • Practical exercises focusing on developing conversational skills and enhancing communication confidence.
  • In-depth discussions on professional vocabulary relevant to youth work, enabling participants to communicate more effectively within their field.

Empowering Participants: The First Lesson 

The first lesson marked an inspiring start, where participants:

  • Introduced themselves and shared their personal goals and language needs.
  • Explored the key topics of the course, including essential vocabulary for youth work.
  • Engaged in interactive activities designed to build conversational skills and foster a sense of community among youth workers.

The journey has just begun, and participants are excited to expand their vocabulary, improve their speaking skills, and gain the confidence needed to engage in international dialogues. This program is set to enhance their linguistic abilities while strengthening their professional network within the youth work community.

Expanding Horizons and Global Opportunities

As the course progresses, participants are eager to apply their new language skills in real-world scenarios. They are preparing to:

  • Participate in Erasmus+ events and other international training sessions.
  • Engage in global collaborations and represent their organizations on international platforms.
  • Foster cross-cultural dialogue and contribute to building a more inclusive and interconnected community.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Mission

Following the success of the Free English Course, MilleniuM remains committed to empowering youth workers and fostering international collaboration. Participants who completed the program are now equipped with valuable language skills that will enable them to contribute more effectively to youth work at both local and international levels.

This initiative has set the stage for continued growth, encouraging participants to take on new challenges, engage in global conversations, and lead positive change within their communities.

Together, we are building a resilient community of youth workers, equipped to create a better tomorrow!

Stay Connected

Follow our updates to hear more inspiring stories from our participants and learn about future opportunities within the SYWOR project!

The “English for Youth Workers” course is part of the “Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience (SYWOR)” project, implemented by Young Agents of Change in partnership with:

🔹 Georgian Youth Development Association 

🔹 European Integration Group

🔹 MilleniuM Training and Development Institute

🔹 Fundacja Nowy Staw

The project is co-funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed belong solely to the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority is responsible for them.

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Kick-off Meeting of the “SYWOR” project

Kick-off Meeting of
the “SYWOR” project

On November 25, 2024, the first kick-off meeting of the international project “Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience” (SYWOR) took place, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. This meeting laid the foundation for successful collaboration among partner organisations and set the stage for the implementation of key activities over the next 36 months.

Highlights of the kick-off meeting

During the meeting, the project coordinators and representatives from all partner organisations gathered to outline key objectives, discuss the implementation plan, and allocate responsibilities. Key topics covered included:

Strategic planning 

Partners reviewed and discussed the project’s roadmap, outlining the specific tasks and steps required for successful implementation over the three-year period.

Essential documentation

Participants were introduced to critical project documents, including the official guidelines, financial regulations, and the visual communication strategy to ensure consistency in messaging.

Communication and collaboration

The team established mechanisms for regular updates, including periodic meetings, progress reports, and internal communication channels to facilitate smooth cooperation.

Visibility and dissemination

A comprehensive strategy for project dissemination was developed, focusing on increasing visibility on social media, engaging target audiences, and sharing key achievements.

The project is implemented by Young Agents of Change in collaboration with the Georgian Youth Development Association (GYDA), European Integration Group, MilleniuM Training and Development Institute, and Fundacja Nowy Staw. It is co-funded by the European Union.

Next steps

With the kick-off meeting successfully completed, the project partners will now proceed with the first phase of activities, including conducting needs assessments, developing training materials, and organising capacity-building workshops for youth workers. The project will also work closely with displaced youth to co-create solutions that address their specific challenges and aspirations.

As SYWOR progresses, we will continue to share updates, success stories, and key insights through our social media channels and website. 

Stay tuned for the latest news and developments!

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