SYWOR

Categories
All News Poland

Creative Integration in Poland: Paint & learn and Eco-bag workshops

Creative Integration in Poland: Paint & learn and Eco-bag workshops

As part of the Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience (SYWOR) project, Fundacja Nowy Staw hosted two creative local seminars this summer in Nasutów, Poland — offering youth and community members a space to connect, relax, and express themselves through art.

Paint & Learn – 26 July 2025

The first workshop, Paint & Learn, welcomed participants of all skill levels to explore painting on canvas in a friendly, small-group setting. All materials were provided, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in creativity without barriers. The event offered not only artistic expression but also time for conversation, coffee, and informal exchange. This relaxed atmosphere encouraged participants to try something new, discover hidden talents, and enjoy quality time together.

Eco-Bag Painting – 2 August 2025

One week later, the Eco-Bag Painting integration workshop brought participants back to Nasutów for a colorful and environmentally friendly creative session. Guided by facilitators, attendees learned fabric painting techniques and designed unique tote bags with motifs inspired by nature, personal passions, and imagination. Alongside the artistic activity, the event fostered integration and community spirit, giving participants the opportunity to meet new people and share ideas. 

Both events were free of charge and open to anyone aged 15+, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. They formed part of SYWOR’s mission to strengthen community ties, promote intercultural understanding, and create safe spaces where creativity and social connection go hand in hand.

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Georgia

Local Seminar in Rustavi, Georgia: Introducing youth to learning, travel, and the SYWOR Project

Local Seminar in Rustavi, Georgia: Introducing youth to learning, travel, and the SYWOR Project

As part of the Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience (SYWOR) project, the Georgian Youth Development Association organized a local seminar in Rustavi, Georgia, on May 31, 2025.

The event brought together local youth for an engaging session led by GYDA’s project manager, Nika Gogoladze. The main focus of the meeting was to introduce young people to fully funded learning and travel opportunities, while also encouraging their involvement in youth-led initiatives across Europe.

During the seminar, Nika presented the mission and activities of GYDA, highlighting both short-term and long-term international mobility programs. These programs offer young people the chance to gain new experiences abroad, develop leadership skills, and become more active citizens.

A key part of the session was dedicated to the ongoing 36-month project Stronger Together, co-funded by the European Union. Through open discussion, participants learned about the goals of SYWOR, its emphasis on resilience-building, and the importance of cross-border collaboration among youth workers. The meeting also served as a space for young people to ask questions, express their interests, and explore how they can become more engaged in local and international projects.

This seminar in Rustavi is another example of how the Stronger Together project continues to connect, inform, and inspire youth across the region — one city at a time.

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Georgia

Linguistic support in Georgia: Empowering youth workers through english language training

Linguistic support in Georgia: Empowering youth workers through english language training

As part of the Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience (SYWOR) project, a four-month English language course is currently taking place in Georgia.

The course began on February 24, 2025, and is designed specifically for youth workers who are actively involved in supporting displaced young people. A total of 13 participants are attending the A2-level course, which is facilitated by a certified English language teacher. The sessions combine online lessons via Zoom and individual in-person support to ensure an inclusive and flexible learning process.

The primary goal of this linguistic support activity is to empower youth workers with basic English communication skills needed for participating in international trainings, building partnerships, and accessing global opportunities. For many participants, this course represents their first structured language learning experience connected directly to their professional role in youth work.

The course is ongoing and already showing promising results. It demonstrates how even basic linguistic support can serve as a gateway to wider cooperation, learning, and advocacy — helping youth workers feel stronger, more connected, and more prepared to lead change in their 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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Georgia

Self-awareness Workshop held in Chiatura, Georgia

Self-awareness Workshop held in Chiatura, Georgia

As part of the Stronger Together project, a local workshop on self-awareness was held in Chiatura, Georgia. The session was organized by Mariam Dogadze and brought together 17 young people aged 14 – 17. Some participants were internally displaced youth (IDPs) who had experienced difficulties due to conflict and resettlement.

The purpose of the workshop was to help young people better understand their emotions, personal values, and to build a safe space where both displaced and local youth could reflect, connect, and grow. It was also a way to support inclusion, build empathy, and encourage young people to feel more confident and engaged in their communities.


Activities

The three-hour session included several creative and reflective exercises:

  • Intro сircle & Icebreaker
  • A group talk about being your true self “Who am I when I’m not trying to fit in?” 
  • A writing activity to express hopes and goals “Letter to my future self”
  • A drawing task to show personal values
  • An art session to picture what emotional safety means to them
  • A chance to share thoughts and feelings at the end

The atmosphere during the workshop was calm and thoughtful. Many participants said it was their first time speaking openly about their feelings and dreams in a safe setting. One young person said:

“After this session, I realized I’m not alone.”

This showed how important it was for them to feel connected to others. Many felt more confident, supported, and motivated to stay in touch and help each other in the future.

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Turkey

ThinkACT Türkiye: Fostering linguistic competence and EU policy literacy among youth

ThinkACT Türkiye: Fostering linguistic competence and EU policy literacy among youth

As part of the Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience (SYWOR) project, the ThinkACT initiative was implemented in Türkiye to empower young people through structured language development and civic education. Led by the European Integration Group (EIG), the program provided a unique platform for young leaders to enhance their English proficiency while engaging with the political realities of the European Union.

Program design and objectives

ThinkACT was specifically designed to promote english language acquisition in a thematic and practice-oriented context, particularly among politically active youth, including those from displaced or disadvantaged backgrounds. Throughout the five-month program, participants not only improved their communication skills but also deepened their understanding of EU institutions, policy frameworks, and global responsibilities.

The initiative combined:

  • Academic language development
  • Simulated political decision-making
  • Structured debate formats
  • Exposure to real-world challenges through a European lens

The program addressed a series of high-priority topics relevant to youth and EU governance, including:

  • The structure and function of EU institutions and political party groups
  • Migration and asylum policies with a focus on the experiences of IDPs
  • Climate change and the European Green Deal
  • Data privacy and cybersecurity in the EU digital space
  • The future of European integration and foreign policy priorities

A major highlight of the program was the session on April 6, which focused on “The Future of Europe” and the pivotal role of youth in shaping long-term policy directions. Participants exchanged ideas on inclusivity, sustainability, and cross-border cooperation, reflecting on the evolving role of the EU in global governance.

The program concluded with ThinkACT 2025, a high-level simulation event held on June 11 at Boğaziçi University. The event convened over 75 youth leaders for a full-day simulation of the European Parliament, where participants presented draft policies and engaged in structured negotiations on migration, climate, and digital transformation. The closing also marked the beginning of the editorial phase for a joint youth journal, where participants will publish analytical articles and policy reflections developed during the program.

Impact and outlook

ThinkACT successfully met its dual objective: enhancing participants’ linguistic capabilities in English while promoting active civic engagement in EU-related topics. It also created an inclusive learning environment for both local students and youth with displacement backgrounds—strengthening peer support networks and intercultural understanding.

As part of the broader SYWOR initiative, this program demonstrates the power of combining non-formal education with political literacy to prepare the next generation of leaders. The European Integration Group remains committed to scaling this approach and continuing to support youth participation at both local and European levels.

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Ukraine

Body mapping for emotional awareness: A creative workshop in Bila Tserkva, Ukraine

Body mapping for emotional awareness: A creative workshop in Bila Tserkva, Ukraine

As part of the Stronger Together project, a local workshop titled “Body Mapping: Where do I feel my emotions?” took place in Bila Tserkva, Ukraine. The event gathered 22 young participants aged 15–20, including both local youth and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The goal was to explore emotional awareness through creativity and body-based reflection, while also encouraging communication in English.

The session offered a safe and creative space where participants could identify their emotions, express themselves through art, and connect with others in a supportive environment. Many participants had never experienced this kind of self-reflection before, especially through artistic and body-centered methods.

The event was facilitated by Yuliia Lynova and Liliia Stepchenko. Preparations included organizing a safe venue in partnership with NGO “Kebet”, gathering creative supplies such as paper, markers, magazines, and emotional cards, and developing calming visual and musical materials to enhance the atmosphere.

The workshop began with a short introduction to the concept of body mapping and emotional awareness. Participants then joined an icebreaker called “Emoji emotion guess,” followed by a check-in using weather metaphors to describe their emotional state and where they felt it in their body (e.g., “cloudy in my chest” or “sunny in my heart”). During a guided meditation, participants scanned their bodies while paying attention to physical and emotional sensations. They were then invited to silently recognize one dominant feeling and gently touch the part of the body where it lived.

The main part of the workshop was a hands-on Body Mapping session, where each participant created a life-sized outline of their body on large paper and used colors, drawings, and magazine cutouts to show where they felt emotions like joy, fear, anger, or love. This was followed by a short coffee break and a closing Reflection circle. In pairs and as a group, participants shared how they experienced the process, what emotions stood out, and what surprised them.

Many young people expressed personal insights and said it helped them better understand themselves.

At the end of the session, participants completed a short written reflection by answering three questions:
🔹 What did you enjoy most today?
🔹 What would you change or add next time?
🔹 What should we avoid in future workshops?

The results of the workshop showed strong emotional engagement and personal growth. Out of 22 participants, 18 joined the final reflection circle, and around 42% of the group were IDPs. The feedback revealed that participants learned how to recognize and name their emotions, gained experience in creative self-expression, and felt safe sharing their thoughts.

The activity also contributed to integration in the community. While the event was open to all youth, priority was given to internally displaced participants, creating a shared space of mutual support and empathy. Throughout the session, participants listened to one another, shared personal stories, and connected regardless of their background.

This local initiative is another example of how the Stronger Together project helps young people develop self-awareness, emotional resilience, and meaningful connections — one workshop at a time.

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Georgia Moldova Poland Turkey Ukraine

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Ukraine

Mission Completed: “English for Youth Workers” – A Transformational Journey of Growth and Connection

Mission Completed: “English for Youth Workers” – A Transformational Journey of Growth and Connection

In a world where international cooperation and youth engagement go hand in hand, effective communication is key. That’s why Young Agents of Change, launched “English for Youth Workers” — a free 3-month linguistic support program tailored specifically for youth workers within the framework of the SYWOR project (Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience).

From day one, this wasn’t just an English course. It was an empowering space for youth professionals to grow, network, and gain confidence in using English as a tool for collaboration, advocacy, and international engagement.

From First Step to Confident Voice

The program kicked off with a lively first session where participants:

  • Got to know each other and shared their learning goals;
  • Identified key vocabulary and situations relevant to youth work;
  • Practiced speaking through interactive exercises focused on real-life scenarios.

Each week, participants gathered for classes that combined professional terminology, practical grammar, and role-based dialogue, preparing them for everything from writing project proposals to presenting ideas at Erasmus+ events.

As the weeks went on, over 20 sessions and several Speaking Clubs created a vibrant, supportive atmosphere where participants discussed youth-related topics, shared experiences, and most importantly — found their voice in English.

Why It Mattered — In Their Own Words

“This course was a real breakthrough in my professional English vocabulary. Now I’m not afraid of ‘guidelines’ or ‘applications’ — I can confidently speak to international partners.”

Volodymyr, participant

“English for Youth Workers is an amazing investment into future international projects. It opened a whole new level of communication for me.”

Yuliia, participant

“It wasn’t only about language skills — it was about building confidence, discovering new opportunities in the humanitarian field, and meaningful networking.”

Victor, participant

“Learning English means better youth work. This course boosted the quality of my professional work and was also a joyful and warm experience with like-minded people.”

Anna, participant

More Than a Course — A Community

By the end of the program, the outcomes were clear: stronger language skills, professional growth, and the creation of a supportive community ready to take on new international challenges. The course helped participants break down language barriers and prepared them to confidently engage in Erasmus+ programs, international training, and cross-border initiatives.

Special thanks go to our inspiring facilitator Anna Nikonenko, whose energy, dedication, and empathy turned weekly lessons into a truly transformative experience.

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Moldova

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More
Categories
All News Ukraine

Empowering Youth Workers: The Launch of “English for Youth Workers” in Ukraine

Empowering Youth Workers: The Launch of “English for Youth Workers” in Ukraine

Breaking Language Barriers in Youth Work

Language barriers often prevent youth workers from fully participating in international training and mobility programs. To bridge this gap, the “English for Youth Workers” course was launched as part of the SYWOR (Stronger Together: Strengthening Youth Workers and Organisations for Displaced Youth Integration and Resilience) project. This initiative provides linguistic support, helping youth workers — especially those from rural areas — enhance their professional skills and expand international opportunities.

About the Initiative

The course is designed to strengthen the capacity of youth workers by improving their English proficiency through specialized training. By equipping them with essential language skills, participants gain the ability to:

✅ Effectively engage in international projects and collaborations.

✅ Communicate confidently with global partners.

✅ Provide better support for displaced youth.

Beyond language learning, the training incorporates key areas relevant to youth work, such as trauma-informed care, intercultural communication, and resilience-building, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to address challenges in their communities.

Program Overview

The free, three-month course offers a dynamic and interactive learning experience that includes:

🎯 Online sessions covering grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills.

🎯 Engaging activities, including case studies, group discussions, and real-world simulations.

🎯 Conversational clubs, where participants practice speaking in an informal setting.

🎯 Practical assignments, allowing youth workers to apply their language skills in professional contexts.

🎯 Key topics, such as project development, donor reporting, intercultural and crisis communication, and working with displaced youth.

🎯 Additional language support tailored to participants’ needs.

🎯 Certificate of achievement for successful completion.

First Session Highlights

On February 2025, the first session of “English for Youth Workers” took place, bringing together motivated youth workers eager to improve their language skills. During the session, participants:

✅ Got to know each other and defined their individual learning needs.

✅ Discussed key course topics with the trainer and explored professional terminology for youth work.

✅ Completed practical exercises to develop their communication skills.

This session marked the first step in helping youth workers gain confidence in using English, empowering them to engage in international collaborations and better support displaced youth.

Building a Stronger Youth Work Community

The SYWOR project focuses on creating a strong, international community of youth workers, ready to take on new challenges and opportunities. Successful participants of the course will have the chance to join Erasmus+ events and international training programs, further expanding their knowledge and networks.

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.

MORE NEWS

sywor image
Read More
3
Read More
IMG_0149
Read More