Week of Learning, Culture, and Connection: Erasmus+ Study Visit at INPRO

The beginning of November 2024 brought a wave of international energy to INPRO in Rzeszów, Poland, as we welcomed participants from various countries for an Erasmus+ study visit. The week was filled with meaningful discussions, inspiring workshops, cultural discoveries, and most importantly—human connection.

Day One: Icebreakers and First Impressions

We kicked off the week with a series of get-to-know-each-other activities designed to break the ice and build trust among the participants. It was a warm and curious crowd—each person eager to learn about others’ interests, backgrounds, and motivations for being here.

“The participants seemed genuinely curious about one another,” said one of our volunteers. “We created a space where people could share their hobbies, educational paths, and even some quirky facts. It set the tone for an open and welcoming environment.”

Antonis, another volunteer, shared his own reflections:
“I was just as curious as they were! You could sense that everyone was bringing something unique to the table—it made the whole atmosphere feel very dynamic.”

Workshops That Spark Ideas

Throughout the week, INPRO hosted several workshops that tackled important youth and community topics. One standout session focused on Levels of Youth Participation, where participants explored different degrees of involvement in their communities. They discussed the importance of meaningful engagement, shared their personal stories, and brainstormed ways to foster inclusive environments back home.

“One of the participants said during the reflection: ‘It inspired me to create a youth space in my town!’ That was such a powerful moment,” shared our team.

Another highlight was a workshop on Bloom’s Taxonomy, which encouraged participants to think more deeply about how learning happens—and how we can design activities that truly engage and challenge young people.

Antonis added,
“It was exciting to facilitate this kind of workshop. We used Bloom’s Taxonomy as a tool to reflect on how we plan educational experiences. It really clicked with a lot of participants who work with youth in their communities.”

Beyond the Office: Discovering Rzeszów and Its Innovations

Of course, it wasn’t all workshops! Nearly every day, the group explored different locations around Rzeszów—from the grand halls of Łańcut Castle to innovative spaces like Space4Youth and the Podkarpackie Centre of Innovation. These excursions provided not only cultural enrichment but also fresh insights into how creative spaces can empower and connect young people.

“Whether it was a workshop or a coffee break, the exchange of ideas was constant and inspiring,” one volunteer noted. “Seeing these innovative places really opened our eyes to what’s possible when creativity and community come together.”

Participants also had the chance to relax and connect during informal gatherings like the Open Café at Urban Lab, where stories flowed as freely as the coffee.

Antonis shared,
“That Open Café felt like a living room full of new friends. People laughed, exchanged contact info, and started dreaming up future collaborations.”

The Power of Networking

Networking was a natural part of the entire experience. From casual coffee chats to deep conversations during workshops and trips, participants were constantly building bridges with one another.

“The first coffee break on Day One felt too short—we all had so much to say!” laughed one volunteer. “Everyone brought such different experiences, and it was amazing to see them connect over shared challenges and passions.”

Antonis added,
“Many were curious about each other’s NGOs and projects. It was like planting seeds for future partnerships. The potential that came out of these conversations was incredible.”

This Erasmus+ study visit wasn’t just a week of workshops and tours—it was a vibrant exchange of cultures, ideas, and aspirations. It left everyone, hosts and participants alike, feeling motivated and recharged.Want to be part of our next adventure?
Follow us on our social media or visit www.goinpro.org to learn more about our programs and upcoming opportunities.