This was the first Erasmus+ project we have hosted. In 2018 we took a small group on an exchange to Greece, and we could see what an impact it had on the young people. As a result, the Tokko Executive Manager (since retired) decided to create an opportunity for young people from across Europe to take part in this Erasmus European exchange. We wanted to add value to our work with a cross-section of young people in Luton, most of whom are disadvantaged. The words “fewer opportunities” are a reality in this city. Young people’s horizons are limited and most of them have never had the chance to travel or make friends internationally. This project would open a window on the world for them as well as for our organisation. During the Covid crisis were also thinking about how to add extra value to young people’s lives and give them hope for the future as they emerged from lockdown. We got a group together at TOKKO and raised the idea of a youth exchange, which was enthusiastically received by the young people. We asked them to come up with ideas for the project – themes, activities, places to visit, possible countries to be involved, the learning and outcomes they would like to get, and so on. We asked them what they thought would be the best thing about an exchange project, and their answer was: “Meeting new people, Understanding other cultures, Building relationships with other young people across Europe”. The project would be an opportunity for England as the hosting country, and for our young people to facilitate and support the larger group whilst simultaneously developing on their own planning and social skills. The design of the project was based on the ideas of the young people. The project objectives were: - To develop team working and communication skills - To give participants more self-confidence - To create links between the project partners and also between the participants - To encourage intercultural learning and curiosity - To promote and disseminate the benefits of international youth projects (Erasmus+) - To increase participants’ understanding of social and environmental issues We did achieve these objectives and more.