Welcome to GO Alive's Erasmus+ youth exchange “Be Present, Be Active”! We’re looking forward to have you join us in Eani Village, Kozani, Greece, a place rich in culture, history, and natural beauty!


Youth Exchange Objectives:

1. To introduce participants to mindfulness as a practical tool for understanding their reactions and behaviors and to explore civic engagement as a way to move from passive awareness to active and mindful participation in their communities;
2. To support participants in identifying automatic patterns and emotional triggers, particularly in stressful or provocative civic situations, and learning how to respond consciously and through grounding exercises;
3. To develop participants’ ability to practice mindful and active listening, enabling them to better understand others and identify real community needs through a grassroots approach;
4. To provide hands-on experience through simulations and real-life scenarios to develop participants’ ability to engage in debates and decision-making processes with empathy, awareness of biases, and the capacity to respond rather than react;
5. To strengthen participants’ confidence in expressing their opinions and speaking on civic matters, while maintaining emotional awareness and respectful communication in an everyday setting;
6. To support participants in transforming local concerns into realistic civic actions, encouraging initiative through concrete and achievable steps;
7. To support participants in creating a personal action plan that combines mindfulness practices with active civic engagement in their everyday lives, to encourage the long-term sustainability of these competences, enabling participants to continue applying mindfulness and taking initiative within their communities beyond the project;
8. To develop a basic understanding of the Erasmus+ programme, including its purpose, target groups, available opportunities, and the role of Youthpass in recognizing learning outcomes;


Profile of participants:

- Aged 18-30
- Gender-balance is encouraged in selection.
- Motivated to explore mindfulness as a tool for personal awareness and well-being, alongside civic participation, with a strong interest in applying these concepts in youth work and community activities.
- Possess at least a B2 level of English to engage fully in all aspects of the training and collaborative tasks.
- Maintain a close connection with their sending organization, ideally contributing actively to its mission, activities, or development.


Group Leader Profile:

- Aged 18+, no upper age limit
- Experience with youth work and facilitation
- Possess a working level of English


IMPORTANT


Lions in the night, lions in the day!

This is an alcohol-free project, alcohol consumption is as such not allowed on the project premises. This is because mindfulness, the topic of the exchange, takes an approach of awareness and reflection and is therefore opposed to any mind-altering practices. Participants are free to go out in the village during their free time; however, they are expected to fully participate in the program activities each day. Lions in the night, lions in the day!


Health and Suitability

We recommend that participants currently dealing with significant mental or physical health challenges carefully evaluate whether this program aligns with their current circumstances. While support systems are in place, the responsibility for maintaining personal well-being remains with the participant. Participants must inform us of any medical conditions or special requirements prior to arrival.


Attendance & Youthpass

All participants who take part of the project are expected to be present for the entire period of the program. At the end all participants will receive a Youthpass which certifies their participation on the project. Participants will get instructions and more information on the Youthpass during the project.




Optional Trips:

METEORA (Tuesday 02/06, 14€ cash)
Explore the breathtaking monasteries on the towering cliffs of Meteora, where nature and spirituality meet atop towering cliffs. Experience one of Greece’s most unforgettable and awe-inspiring landscapes.

IOANNINA + PARGA (Saturday 06/06, 19€ cash)
Ioannina: Famous for its historical sites, its central lake and numerous museums, this beautiful Greek town is full of memorable landscapes surrounded by rich cultural heritage.

Parga: This picturesque town is known for its beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, and historical sites like the Venetian castle. Bring your swim ware!

(book both trips for 30€)