Together We Click

Although known as a quaint and peaceful place, this September, Labanoras echoed with chatter and laughter as participants from Lithuania, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Portugal and Romania came together to explore the themes of inclusion, accessibility, and diversity during “Together We Click”.

The first two days were devoted to bringing the young people closer through icebreaking and team-building activities. As a result, participants not only learned each other’s names, but also uncovered shared passions and common aspirations for a brighter future.

During the following days, the mysteries and dilemmas that the topic of inclusion and diversity holds were unraveled. In this process, everyone took an active role in the search for answers, exploring ideas with curiosity and care. Sessions were varied, creating a well-rounded foundation. For example, the intricate discussions, debates, and roleplays helped the participants base their understanding of the topic not only on concrete facts, but also on empathy. Furthermore, by learning the sign language alphabet, exploring texts written in Braille, and reflecting on the challenges faced by others, young people discovered how society and daily life can be made more accessible . Beyond accessibility, ways in which stereotypes take root in our world were also thoroughly analyzed, uncovering hidden biases and recognizing the many forms that discrimination can take.

All sessions, which were based on non-formal education methods, were both educational and fun. In addition, for the purpose of deepening the learning, reflection sessions were held each evening, offering space for participants to process the knowledge and emotions of the day.

In complement to the workshops, cultural nights allowed everyone to step into each other’s worlds. The young people listened to stories of distant homelands, tasted traditional foods, and learned folk dances – experiences that promoted mutual understanding and revealed how culture shapes livelihoods. These nights also aided in enriching each participant’s general knowledge, helping them become more informed about the diversity of Europe and promoting open-mindedness.

Participants arrived in Labanoras hoping to explore inclusion and diversity, and in the end, they left not only with those hopes fulfilled, but also with new international friendships, cherished memories, and a renewed determination to make the world a better place, one step at a time. Consequently, they returned home as well-informed advocates of inclusivity, able to recognize injustices, challenge stereotypes, and promote accessibility.

Facing the final task proved the hardest for participants – saying goodbye. In those final moments, heartfelt hugs, whispered thanks, and promises to see each other again someday were exchanged. Though their paths diverged, each carried with them a piece of Together We Click, proving that connections made in sincerity can outlast even the longest of distances.