Lecce, Italy | 14–20.09.2024
From the 14th to the 20th of September 2024, young participants from across Europe gathered in the sun-drenched city of Lecce, Italy, for an energizing Erasmus+ youth exchange titled Sport for Inclusion and Health. This inspiring project was designed to promote well-being, social inclusion, and environmental awareness through sports, sustainable living, and community-building activities.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in a wide range of dynamic workshops and outdoor sessions. These non-formal educational activities encouraged them to explore the connection between physical health, social inclusion, and sustainability. From team-building exercises to creative expression through art and discussion, the project fostered a strong sense of unity and self-reflection.
Set amidst the beautiful natural surroundings of Lecce, the exchange included camping, physical challenges, and interactive games, all tailored to strengthen group cohesion and raise awareness on key societal issues. Participants also explored topics such as zero-waste lifestyles, critical consumption, and inclusive sports methodologies.
– To support young people in expressing themselves creatively through sustainable alternatives and lifestyles.
– To raise awareness about inclusive sports methods that foster teamwork, tolerance, and social connection.
– To promote zero-waste principles and conscious living habits through hands-on activities and discussions.
– To boost confidence, communication skills, and intercultural understanding among youth.
Anastasia:
It was an experience which I remember for many reasons. The most important reason for me is the people I met and we became friends. All the participants were very friendly and we became a good team. We exchanged experiences, thoughts and opinions on various subjects and found we had a lot in common. One other reason was the organizers, who were helpful and tried to find a solution to any problem we had. Finally, they made creative sports and activities and they tried to get us out of the box and to bring us closer to nature.
Maria:
I initially feel lucky to have met all these unique and amazing people and to have developed such close relationships with them, as well as to have been given the opportunity to understand the value of sport inclusion and teamwork. Although I am a person who does not exercise at all, after a week of this wonderful experience, I reconsidered my relationship with exercise and sports. It gave me the motivation to incorporate physical activity into my daily routine.
Katerina:
I learned the transformative power of sports in bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and fostering a sense of community. It taught me the importance of inclusion, teamwork, and empathy, while also highlighting the mental and physical health benefits of staying active. From this experience, I will keep the values of diversity, respect, and resilience.
Vicki:
At first I was pretty anxious, not knowing what to expect, since I am not really a sporty person. All the activities and sports were very inclusive to people with not a lot of athletic skills and all the other participants made their best effort to work all together and enjoy ourselves! Being in nature definitely helped our minds and bodies destress from our everyday lives and the camping life made us connect more with ourselves and the other people altogether.
Maria:
It was truly an unforgettable experience for me that I will always remember. The sports and activities were very interesting, and we had the freedom to make decisions together with the organizers without any pressure. Additionally, this program provided an opportunity for me to meet wonderful people with whom I would like to keep in touch afterward. All participants worked together and cooperatively without discrimination.
This project brought together more than just sports and learning it built friendships, fostered self-growth, and encouraged a deeper connection with nature and community. The powerful mix of physical engagement and meaningful reflection made Sport for Inclusion and Health a transformative journey for every participant.
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