Can you imagine spending a week at the South of Spain, meeting new people from all over the Europe, deepening your knowledge on environmental topics through non-formal education and all of it for free?
In days 19-27 of April 2023 I had such opportunity in city of Málaga, being a participant of Youth Exchange „Green way is my way” founded by Erasmus+ programme. Participants from Poland, with people from other countries like Germany, North Macedonia, Turkey, Lithuania, Bulgaria and Spain spent their week in capital of Andalucía, discussing environmental topics, comparing their experiences and learning from each other. Among us we could find people working with environment on the professional level as well as beginners in the field. I learned a lot about the ways how to be more „green” and how to lead an eco-friendly lifestyle, also, how our methods and ways look different, depending where we come from. I, as a participant, took part in organising activities, met fantastic, competent people, and was able to talk with a leader of a near eco-village. Those experiences changed the way I see environmental challenges we face and made me more mindful about them.
In free time, I have been getting to know each other, spending time together and learning about other cultures. I’ve been getting tanned, savouring the sea and beautiful weather. Spanish culture, food and traditions are magical and made those memories even more joyful and colourful.
This experience was life-changing, I’ve learned a lot, met friends that I’ll keep in touch with for a long time, changed the way I treat Earth as my home. I am very grateful for this and hope that it’s not my last Youth Exchange.
Hania Papiernik – participant of the exchange
