„Tolerance or ignorance? II” Erasmus+ youth exchange in Slovakia
Between November and December 2019 I’ve been participating in Erasmus+ project “Tolerance or ignorance?II” which took place in a Stará Lesná village. It was my first visit in Slovakia. It’s pretty similar to my country, but also different, with unique atmosphere.
As usual, the Erasmus+ project
gathered people from different parts of the globe to integrate between young
people. I had an opportunity to meet new friends from Slovakia, Italy, Turkey,
Ukraine and Belgium. Of course, there was also my polish dream team.
The main topic was about cultural
diversity, stereotypes, dignity and respect. Each group had to prepare
presentation on specific subject. I’ve learned a lot of new valuable things such
as Islam in Turkey, conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which was something
special, because there were guys among us, who fought on the front line – a
real soldiers. Each country had something special to share. I can admit, that
from every youth exchange I got something different.
Except presentations, each country
had to prepare cultural evening. It was a great time to have some national
dishes and snacks, try dances and sing songs.
Another activity was creation of
workshops for young people. In mixed groups we prepared some games based on our
main topic. After practice we could go to schools in Poprad and Košice to run
our workshops.
Our goal was to learn children about
stereotypes, cooperation and about differences between countries. As one of
the group leaders I can say it was really useful experience. Working with youngsters
is not an easy task – in each school children were acting differently. Sometimes
they were more brave and curious, sometimes they were shy or quiet. However, I
think we made a great job together!
But don’t you think, that there were
only workshops and presentations! We had quite a lot of free time. As I wrote
before – Slovakia is close to Poland - literally and figuratively speaking. We
have a lot in common, like landscapes, architecture and very similar languages.
But there is some kind of atmosphere, it is difficult to describe – you have to
feel it by yourself.
There are many things that I've loved
about this country. High Tatra mountains make a great impression – beautiful
views and sound of the waterfalls. Food and restaurants. I am really glad, I
could discover such many places in a short time. Also local people, that I met were super nice and hearty.
The time was moving so fast when I
was there. At the one of our last days we celebrated Christmas, giving each
other presents. We even had our own Santa Claus!
It is important to know, that world
needs more tolerance than ignorance. People I met will always remind me that.
It was a great time and now it is in my memories. I am sure I will go back to
Slovakia in the future.
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