Between 23 and 26 October, another initiative took place in Braga as part of the second phase of the SPEAK OUT project, Local Changemakers Training. The event brought together almost 40 dedicated volunteers from the Erasmus Student Network across Europe. The aim of the training was to equip them with knowledge and tools to challenge stereotypes, combat disinformation and engage in building more open, intercultural and inclusive local communities.
ESN Poland was represented by six volunteers: Wiktoria Świder (ESN-EYE Łódź), Maria Dzida (ESN AGH Kraków), Filip Franowski (ESN UAM Poznań), Dominika Mikołajczak (ESN UKSW Warsaw), Marta Pliszka (ESN SGGW Warsaw) and Julia Szydzikowska (ESN 3city). In addition to them, other Polish volunteers who are actively involved in ESN sections across Europe also took part in the training. Their diverse experiences, perspectives and motivations greatly enriched the discussions and collaborative activities throughout the event.
During the three intensive days, participants took part in sessions exploring the concept of the local community, the challenges and stereotypes it may face and the ways to address them. They also had the opportunity to develop their event management skills, from the initial idea and logistical planning, through organisation, to detailed evaluation of results. As part of practical workshops, they worked in multicultural teams to design their own initiatives, drawing inspiration from previous projects carried out across Europe.
The volunteers left sunny Portugal with their heads full of ideas, renewed motivation to take action, greater social awareness and a strong sense of belonging to the ESN community.
“Meeting so many people from different parts of Europe, with diverse perspectives, opportunities and experiences, showed me what a privilege my surroundings are, my country, my local community and my ESN section, but also how much there still is to improve, how many more people can be reached and encouraged to take action together. I’m returning home motivated, inspired, full of ideas for new initiatives that I hope will touch people’s hearts and above all, with the belief that a big impact on others often starts with small things.”
The SPEAK OUT project continues to inspire and empower young leaders, providing them with the tools to make a difference in their communities. For many of them, this was not just another training trip, it was a call to action and a reminder that each of us can make an impact, as long as we choose to act.