24–31 July 2024 | Youth Exchange
From 24th to 31st July 2024, young people from various European countries gathered in the charming town of Gimigliano, Italy, for the Youth Exchange “EU Food Traditions.” Co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, this initiative brought together participants passionate about food, culture, and community engagement. The project aimed to explore the importance of nutrition education, promote healthy lifestyles, and celebrate the cultural richness found in traditional European cuisines.
Throughout the week, participants immersed themselves in hands-on workshops, cultural exchanges, and local interactions. A key highlight was learning how to prepare traditional Italian pasta from local women, an experience that not only taught culinary skills but also built bridges between generations. Participants also had the chance to share their own food customs, broadening everyone’s understanding of how cuisine shapes identity and community.
Daily intercultural evenings offered a unique platform to exchange stories, flavors, and traditions, strengthening the bonds among participants and fostering a deep appreciation for diversity. The atmosphere was one of warmth, curiosity, and connection a true reflection of the values promoted by the Erasmus+ Programme.
Antonios:
“I am always in love with the people of Gimigliano. There are so warm people that are always say ciao to us. The project was very very interesting because we learned how to listen to each other and most important how to make traditional pasta.”
Ioanna:
“It was a very beautiful experience, from which I learned many new things. I met very sweet and welcoming people, as we had the opportunity to meet and talk to the locals. I also learned many interesting things about the traditions of the locals.”
Nina:
“The project in Gimigliano really surprised me. I loved every second of it there, talking, meeting new people, making pasta and having a lot of fun activities. I really liked the people there, I felt very welcomed and it really warms my heart when I think about it. The vibe in the project was wonderful and I loved it.”
Maria:
“It was a fulfilling experience! We learned a lot of things about food traditions in different European countries and the cultural heritage connected to them! We also had the chance to interact with the locals of Gimigliano and their lifestyle which was more than exciting. We would like to thank Go Alive for this opportunity!”
Evan:
“From this project I learned a lot. It was my first time in Italy and my first time participating as a group leader for my national group, so I had to learn the ropes of how to communicate ideas effectively and manage my team’s questions and requirements.”
– Inspire young people to develop awareness of the importance of nutrition education.
– Broaden participants’ understanding of healthy lifestyles, including eating habits.
– Provide a space for discussion and sharing of best practices among participants.
Stay tuned for more unforgettable learning experiences with GO Alive!
