In Focus: An Erasmus+ Youth Exchange on the Power of Photography

Where is humanity headed? Is there a definitive answer to that question, or does it even make sense to ask? As a species that prides itself on problem-solving, we still face countless challenges. We use intelligence, tools, and sometimes both combined to create solutions. One such tool is the digital camera—for many, it’s a means of capturing memories; for some, it’s a profession. But here at INPRO, we recognized another dimension: photography as a force for awareness and change. And that’s how the idea of In Focus was born.

The Bigger Picture: Photography & the UN Goals

In 2015, the United Nations introduced 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a vision for a world without war, hunger, poverty, or inequality. Theoretically, achieving them would create a greener, fairer, self-sustaining world where everyone has a place. But looking at today’s reality, we see just how far we are from that ideal. Reaching these goals requires every tool at our disposal—including photography. If images have the power to tell stories and inspire action, why not use them to raise awareness for these global challenges?

The Birth of In Focus

After countless meetings, research, and careful preparation, In Focus: Uniting Cultures Through Photography Erasmus+ youth exchange came to life. Our goal was clear:
✔️ Teach youth exchange participants new photography skills.
✔️ Introduce them to the 17 SDGs.
✔️ Help them meet new people and make lasting friendships.
✔️ Create a meaningful, fun, and unforgettable experience.

We were excited but also aware of one challenge: our own inexperience. However, that’s something only practice can fix. Plus, we knew we could count on our more experienced colleagues and our coordinator.

Welcoming Our Guests

Participants arrived from five different countries: Poland, Ukraine, Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary. Over 25 young people, aged 19 to 27, joined us at the INPRO hostel, where we welcomed them. The first evening was about settling in, sharing a meal at a local restaurant, and getting to know each other.

Breaking the Ice & The Secret Friend Game

Monday marked the official start of In Focus. Each morning, we began with energizers—small, dynamic activities to shake off tiredness and build group spirit. These were led by INPRO volunteer Antonis from Greece, whose energy set a great tone for the entire week.

We also introduced one of our most beloved activities: The Secret Friend Game. Each participant was assigned a “secret friend” to whom they would secretly perform small acts of kindness throughout the week. At the end, everyone’s secret friend would be revealed. It was a simple yet powerful way to nurture connection and warmth among the group.

Photography Workshops & City Exploration

A key pillar of In Focus was learning photography, and INPRO volunteer Sihem from France, a professional photographer, led inspiring workshops. Her passion was contagious—she made everyone eager to participate, even those of us who weren’t initially interested in photography.

Later that day, Brian, Sihem, and Antonis guided the group through a city scavenger hunt in Rzeszów. It was a fun way for participants to explore their surroundings while bonding.

Connecting Photography & the 17 Goals

With so much fun and energy, it was easy to forget the deeper purpose behind the exchange. That’s why on Tuesday, I took a moment to remind the group of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. At first, they weren’t sure why we were discussing them, but the next activity made everything clear.

Each participant chose one SDG and had to take a photograph that represented their chosen goal. The results? Absolutely impressive. The photos were later presented at Open Café, where the broader INPRO community had the chance to see their work. This special edition of Open Café sparked deep conversations and meaningful social interactions.

The Blind Director Challenge

One of the most entertaining activities was The Blind Director, organized by Antonis. Participants formed groups, and one person—the “blind director”—had to direct a scene without seeing it, while the rest followed their instructions. The outcome? Hilarious and creative photos that we laughed about for hours.

Secret Friend Reveal & Words of Kindness

By the end of the week, our once-unfamiliar group had transformed into a warm, close-knit community. The final event was the much-anticipated Secret Friend Reveal. Seeing the gift table overflow with thoughtful presents was heartwarming—everyone had embraced the spirit of kindness.

We ended with one last activity: The Words of Kindness Exercise. Each participant wore a paper on their back, and everyone else wrote something nice about them. In the end, each person left with a sheet full of kind words—a simple reminder of the friendships and positive impact we had created together.

Final Reflections: More Than Just Photography

On the first day, I told the group:
“This week is not about becoming professional photographers or solving all of the world’s problems. It’s about spending quality, productive time together.”

Looking back, that statement perfectly describes the experience. We planned, executed, and now reflect on an exchange that was not without its challenges, but filled with learning, connection, and unforgettable moments.

There were moments of doubt and difficulties, but isn’t that what teaches us the most in the long run?