It’s not about Boys vs Girls, Erasmus+ Youth Exchange, Berlin, Germany.
Date: 6th-14th September 2024
Location: Oranienburg, Berlin, Germany
Introduction
Gender inequality remains a persistent issue affecting our daily lives. Despite global efforts, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, we are witnessing an increase in inequality, especially for women and girls. The European Commission has acknowledged this and launched a Gender Equality Strategy in March 2020 to create a fairer Europe.
Project Objectives
Our Erasmus+ Youth Exchange aimed to raise awareness among young people about gender inequality. We sought to:
Promote inclusivity: Educate young people about the social consequences of gender inequality.
Encourage economic equality: Highlight gender inequalities in the economy.
Improve education: Bring attention to the impact of gender inequality on learning.
Promote health and wellbeing: Share information about the effects on mental and physical health.
Encourage democratic engagement: Stimulate active participation in democratic processes.
Activities
Throughout the week, we organised interactive sessions, such as role plays and presentations from experts. We explored various perspectives and visited a local university, which helped us understand gender issues from an academic viewpoint.
Participant Profile
Six participants from each of eight different countries (Germany, Italy, Turkiye, Spain, Hungary, North Macedonia, St. Maarten, and the Netherlands), aged 16 to 30, came together for eight days from diverse backgrounds, enriching the discussions and learning experiences.
Impact
Participants learned to think critically about gender inequality and were equipped with the tools to drive change. By engaging in community conversations, they challenged existing norms and raised awareness.
Conclusion
This Youth Exchange was an inspiring experience that not only equipped participants with knowledge and skills but also encouraged them to become advocates for gender equality. Together, we strive for a fairer future for everyone.
Story of participant Andrea, an International student who represented the Netherlands.
“My experience at the Berlin Erasmus+ Youth Exchange was incredibly impactful. As a native English-Spanish bilingual, I felt well-equipped to engage with the program's content and connect with fellow participants. The opportunity to practice my German in a progressive context, converse with the Spanish team in my other native tongue, and even use some Catalan added a vibrant cultural dimension to the experience. Building a shared language extended beyond gender equality discussions to encompass the joy of language learning and cultural exchange. This, combined with the workshops and discussions, solidified my commitment to advocating for gender equality and contributing to a more inclusive society.”
IT’S NOT ABOUT BOYS VS GIRLS, Erasmus+ Youth Exchange
2023-1-DE04-KA152-YOU-000143062
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