Time Travel Meets Future Vision: Inside the Beyond the Times and Tales Youth Exchange at INPRO

Twenty-eight young people from Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland embarked on a unique adventure in Rzeszów, Poland, participating in the “Beyond Times and Tales” youth exchange program. Hosted by INPRO, the program blended history exploration with a vision for the future, using collaborative activities and friendly competition.

For many, this was their first or second international exchange, and excitement buzzed in the air. On Monday morning, February 5th, participants gathered in INPRO’s training room, ready to begin their week-long adventure. Traditionally, we started with icebreakers: memorising names, sharing perspectives, and creating a “constitution” with fun rules.

The workshops were energetic and varied. Participants explored Rzeszów through a Jewish history city tour game, transforming into history detectives. UrbanLab offered more intensive workshops, followed by cosy sessions back at INPRO.

Some activities stood out:

• A Kahoot quiz turned geography and city trivia into a competitive game. Winners became team leaders, choosing cities like London and Paris to imagine as they might be in 100 years without humans. Equipped with creativity and Canva, they brought their visions to life.
• Participants fearlessly took the stage, reenacting historical moments like the first Olympics or the moon landing. Their creativity and imagination shone through.

Despite the short program, friendships blossomed. Participants enjoyed each other’s company, debated freely, and listened attentively.

Four cultures were beautifully showcased during an international coffee break. Participants shared snacks from home and enjoyed warm conversations over cups of tea.

They actively participated in INPRO’s local activities, like the weekly Open Cafe at Urban Lab. They kindly shared feedback throughout the program.

The week culminated in a final workshop and goodbyes. Traditional energizers set the tone for active thinking. Games and brainstorming helped participants understand YouthPass, a program highlighting their acquired skills.

Before a final photo session, they traditionally wrote messages on each other’s backs.

“Beyond Times and Tales” was a resounding success. Young people from different countries connected, shared cultures, forged friendships and learned together. Leaving with lasting memories and stronger bonds, they demonstrated how understanding and collaboration can make the world a better place.

The project is financed by Erasmus+. If you want to learn more about INPRO’s programs, follow our social media channels or check our website constantly: https://www.goinpro.org/.