Future of Inclusion

Set against the vibrant and cosmopolitan backdrop of Budapest, the Future of Inclusion training course brought together youth workers from Hungary, Lithuania, Portugal, Slovakia, Romania and Czechia. The city’s dynamic energy and inclusive charm provided the perfect environment for this transformative journey, fostering creativity, collaboration, and growth.

Over the course of the learning days, participants delved deep into the principles of diversity and inclusion, as the basis of impactful Erasmus+ projects. The training enriched not only strengthened their grip on these vital concepts, but also empowered them with practical skills in project writing, organizational management, and teamwork.

The program began with a session on online security, a crucial topic for youth workers who rely heavily on digital tools to optimize their workflow. This workshop equipped participants with practical knowledge about safeguarding their devices, recognizing online threats, and using digital tools responsibly. In the days that followed, the focus shifted to inclusive project writing and management. The trainer meticulously designed sessions that were both educational and engaging, blending theory with hands-on practice. Some standout activities were:

Mission Impossible: Learning Through Real-World Challenges

Participants embraced hands-on learning during the Mission Impossible session, where they tackled a series of creative tasks rooted in real-world experiences. They engaged with locals to discuss pressing community issues, organized a flash mob, and even conducted short interviews with individuals facing fewer opportunities. These challenges not only reinforced their understanding of inclusion but also highlighted the importance of empathy in their work.

Methods Palette: Exploring Non-Formal Education Techniques

In a session named Methods Palette, participants teamed up in pairs to explore and present non-formal education methods such as Photo Voice, City Quest or Living Library . Each duo crafted short, engaging presentations and facilitated three-minute workshops, inviting their peers to experience these methods firsthand. This exercise encouraged reflection on the diverse modalities of learning, their strengths, and the contexts in which they shine.

The training wasn’t just about acquiring knowledge—it was about building a community. The shared experiences, collaborative tasks, and vibrant discussions, accompanied by through explanations provided by the trainer, fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among the participants. By the end of the course, they weren’t just a group of individuals; they were a cohesive team, ready to bring the spirit of inclusion to their respective communities.

The Future of Inclusion training course proved to be a view-changing experience, equipping youth workers with the tools, insights, and motivation to prioritize diversity and inclusion in their work. As they left Budapest, each participant carried with them not only the lessons learned but also a renewed passion for creating inclusive opportunities and making an impact within the Erasmus+ framework. Together, they are ready to shape a future where inclusion isn’t just a concept but a way of life.