By implementing the project “Healthy Moves, Erasmus Grooves”, we want to create an innovative approach in youth work that combines movement, dance and sport with creativity and intercultural dialogue. Our ambition is to show that youth work does not need to take place only in classrooms or through seminars, but that the body, music and movement can be equally powerful tools for learning, inclusion and personal development. What do we want to achieve? First, the project aims to highlight the link between physical activity and mental health. Today’s young people face increasing challenges connected with a sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition and high levels of stress. The consequences of this are the rise of obesity, which directly affects the health and self-confidence of young people. In addition, young people who struggle with weight problems often become victims of bullying, mockery and negative stereotypes. Through this project, we want to give youth workers a new perspective, how to use creative forms of movement (dance, rhythm, play) not only for improving physical health, but also as a method for fighting stigma, building self-confidence and promoting inclusion. Second, we want to build the capacity of youth workers for inclusive practices. One third of the participants in the project will be young people with fewer opportunities (economic, cultural, educational or geographical barriers). Our goal is to develop methods and approaches through which every young person can feel equally valued, regardless of their background or personal challenges. This is a key value in youth work and directly corresponds to the Erasmus+ priorities for inclusion and diversity. Third, we want to encourage intercultural dialogue and the development of European awareness. Through the exchange of experiences and cultural expressions, youth workers will learn from each other, discover new methods and build a common European identity. Dance and movement are universal languages that need no translation, and this is exactly what will help to build bridges between participants from different countries. Specific objectives from the perspective of youth work practice: - Developing knowledge and skills: Youth workers will gain practical knowledge of how dance and movement can be used to promote healthy habits and strengthen self-confidence among young people. - Fighting stigma and bullying: The project will teach youth workers how to create activities that reduce discrimination and prejudice against young people with different body shapes or weight. - Inclusive practices: New methods will be developed that enable active participation of young people with fewer opportunities, through adapted workshops and a peer-support approach. - Intercultural cooperation: Youth workers will strengthen their capacity to design programs that promote cultural diversity and European values. - Integration in daily practice: Dance, movement and sport will be encouraged as regular tools in youth work, within workshops, campaigns and local activities. - Creative results: By creating a handbook, video materials and digital campaigns, the project will ensure that its results remain applicable beyond its duration. What will youth workers gain? The project will help participants enrich their youth work practice with new methods and tools. They will develop greater confidence in using arts and movement as educational methods, learn how to create safe and supportive environments for young people, and strengthen their empathy, motivation and group facilitation skills. After the project, they will be able to provide higher-quality and more innovative work with youth in their communities. Wider effects The project is not limited to the participants themselves. Through dissemination, public events and online campaigns, we will raise awareness about the importance of movement, dance and a healthy lifestyle, but also about the problem of bullying and stigma connected to obesity. The results will be available at a European level, allowing other organizations, youth centers and schools to use the methods developed in the project. Through this, “Healthy Moves, Erasmus Grooves” will contribute to making youth work more innovative, more inclusive and more sustainable. It will encourage youth workers to see their role not only as educators, but also as community builders who help young people live healthier, feel accepted and have the courage to reach their potential.