«Our Erasmus+ Youth Exchange experience in Croatia was much more than just a project, it was a week that reminded us of the power young people have when they come together with a shared purpose. Mission Empowerment: Say, Do, Change gave us the space, the tools and the motivation to grow not only as individuals, but as active citizens who want to shape a better future.
Throughout the week, we explored meaningful and relevant topics such as active citizenship, human rights and sustainability. We talked openly about the challenges young people face in our home countries, from social inequality and limited opportunities to low youth participation. What surprised us most was realizing that although we come from different places and cultures, we are often facing the same struggles and sharing the same hopes. This understanding created a strong sense of unity and common purpose among us.
The activities were highly interactive and engaging. Through discussions, teamwork, role-playing and creative workshops, we learned how our voices can be heard and how ideas can be transformed into real action. Step by step, we built confidence, communication skills and a stronger belief in our ability to make a difference, even through small initiatives that can have a big impact when driven by cooperation and determination.
Equally important was everything that happened outside the workshops. We discovered each other’s cultures, shared stories, laughter and traditions, and created friendships that crossed borders. We formed powerful connections that will last long after the project ended. By the end of the week, we didn’t just leave with new knowledge, we left as a community.
We would also like to warmly thank our facilitators for their guidance, support and positive energy throughout the project, as well as the hosting organization in Croatia for their excellent hospitality and for creating such a welcoming and inspiring environment for all of us.
This experience helped us grow as people and as engaged, responsible young citizens. It reminded us that the future is not something distant or abstract, it is something we actively build every day through our choices, actions and voices. We returned home inspired, motivated and ready to carry this energy forward. Because change starts when we believe in it. Say. Do. Change.»
Γιώργος, Γιάννης, Σταύρος και Παναγιώτης
«I participated in the youth exchange “Mission Empowerment: Say, Do, Change!”, which took place in Đakovo, Croatia, from 1 to 9 December 2025, within the Erasmus+ Programme. The project brought together young people from Armenia, Croatia, Georgia, Greece, Portugal and focused on active citizenship, youth participation, and the promotion of European values through non-formal education.
During the exchange, I had the opportunity to meet young people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, build new friendships, and exchange perspectives on the political and social realities of each participating country. Through discussions, simulations, and practical activities, we shared experiences about how young people engage in civic life in our societies and the challenges we face as active citizens. I enjoyed the activities, as they were engaging, creative, thought-provoking and distinct from each other.
This experience was particularly inspiring, as it motivated me to reflect on my own role in society and encouraged me to take more initiative as an active citizen. The project strengthened my understanding of democratic participation and showed how small, youth-led actions can contribute to positive change at local and international levels. Most importantly, it was mad clear to me that active citizenship can be even the smallest action and it does not have to be something that only needs to be big, in order to change something.
After the project, I also shared the experience and its key messages in another youth exchange programme, contributing to the wider dissemination of its values and impact. Overall, Mission Empowerment: Say, Do, Change! was a meaningful learning journey that empowered me, connected me with others, and inspired me to remain actively involved in civic and social life.»
Σοφία
Civil Education and Training Platform – Hellas 