Put On The Outdoor Lenses

Reconnecting Youth with Nature for Growth and Action

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, many young people find themselves disconnected from nature. To address this issue, Put on the Outdoor Lenses was an immersive youth exchange that brought together participants from Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Spain. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Mezőberény, Hungary, this eight-day program encouraged participants to step outside their comfort zones, embrace the outdoors, and engage in meaningful cultural exchange.

By utilizing non-formal and interactive methods, including outdoor games, sports, environmental workshops, and cultural visits, the mobility fostered teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills among young people. The exchange provided a welcoming and inclusive environment that inspired personal growth and empowered participants to make positive contributions to their communities.

During the mobility

The mobility kicked off with activities designed to help participants connect and build confidence. Speed Dating allowed for quick, lively introductions, easing initial nervousness and promoting interaction in English. Theater techniques encouraged creativity while exploring Youthpass competencies, and the group co-created and signed shared rules and expectations, fostering unity and responsibility. 

As the program progressed, participants engaged in teamwork and creative tasks, such as designing imaginary countries and presenting them to the group. They explored Erasmus+ and volunteering opportunities, and ended the day with a vibrant Hungarian cultural night featuring folk dances and local dishes.

Nature, Creativity, and Environmental Action

Outdoor activities brought participants closer to nature, with games, a scenic hike, and the chance to capture the beauty of their surroundings through photography. These photos inspired poems, drawings, and stories, creating a space for self-expression. The evening was capped off with a movie screening of Hereditary, giving everyone a chance to relax and bond further.

A commitment to environmental action was demonstrated through a street cleanup in Mezőberény, where participants turned collected trash into art projects, showcasing creativity and teamwork. Workshops on sustainability, water conservation, and recycling deepened their understanding of eco-friendly practices. The day concluded with an intercultural night, highlighting the cultures of Romania and Slovakia.

Sports, Community Engagement and Reflection

The group also participated in sports and traditional games, like football and the Hungarian game Meta, where they not only had fun but also gained leadership experience by facilitating sessions themselves.

Community engagement was a key focus as participants visited Békéscsaba, where they presented their cultures, addressed local environmental issues, and introduced Erasmus+ to young people. Despite the language barriers, they adapted and communicated creatively, completing their tasks successfully before relaxing in a nearby park.

The final days allowed for reflection and creativity, with participants summarizing their week through projects like collages and interviews. They were inspired to share their experiences and lessons learned with others, especially after a session on dissemination strategies led by facilitator Atti. The program wrapped up with heartfelt reflections, and participants departed with Youthpass certificates and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to bring the values of outdoor exploration, cultural exchange, and environmental stewardship back to their communities.