Through these projects, we aimed to support young people in growing into confident, capable, and active members of society. We helped them discover their strengths, explore opportunities, and develop skills for life and work. At the same time, we made sure they had safe spaces where they could express themselves and learn in ways that felt real and meaningful. We focused on encouraging young people to take initiative, get involved in their communities, and become more aware of their rights and options — both locally and internationally. Learning happened through games, teamwork, dialogue, and trying something new. Our work also aimed to break down stereotypes and promote tolerance. By bringing together young people from different backgrounds, including those facing social or economic challenges, we helped build understanding and respect. We listened to what they were interested in and shaped activities based on their needs. Objective 1: Inclusion of Young People with Fewer Opportunities A key priority was to ensure participation of youth with disabilities, from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ communities, and those new to international mobility — as in “I need to know: my body, my rights, my decisions” YE. We used accessible language, visuals, team leader support, and emotional check-ins. Projects like Culture in Your DNA and Games Laboratory were strong examples. We aim to improve impact tracking by collecting more quantitative data in the future. Objective 2: Competence Development through Non-Formal Learning and Safe Spaces All projects followed non-formal education principles: reflection, storytelling, arts, and games. Youthpass helped participants recognise their learning in digital literacy, learning-to-learn, cultural awareness, and initiative. Safe space was especially vital in the “I need to know: my body, my rights, my decisions” project, supporting open, respectful dialogue on sensitive topics. Objective 3: Strengthening International and Local Cooperation Projects were co-designed and delivered with local and international partners. Shared responsibilities (e.g. facilitation, outreach) deepened cooperation and led to lasting partnerships. Team leaders actively contributed — running energisers, team-building, or full sessions. In Culture in Your DNA, leaders from Estonia, Georgia, Portugal, Moldova, and Greece helped illustrate Europe’s cultural diversity. In Games Laboratory, participants themselves shared tools and practices, enriching the course through peer learning. Objective 4: Fostering Civic Responsibility and Entrepreneurial Thinking Participants led sessions, created tools, and launched follow-up actions. Many first-timers stayed active after the project. One example is Marem Uzhakova, who joined the youth club, co-facilitated Culture in Your DNA, mentored an ESC volunteer, and later led her own project as a facilitator. Her journey shows how Erasmus+ supports personal growth and leadership. Objective 5: Addressing EU Priorities — Sustainability, Digitalisation, and Visibility Sustainability: Projects used natural locations, local food, shared transport, and recycled materials. Digitalisation: We applied tools like Padlet, Miro, and Actionbound, and used hybrid formats and e-learning content. Visibility: Social media, partner channels, and creative formats helped us reach wide audiences with stories, visuals, and events. By learning and reflecting, we improved the quality of youth work and created opportunities that matter. These projects were steps toward lasting change.