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Creative Wave

2026-1-SK02-KA152-YOU-0003971512026Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: SK|CZ|ES · Grant: €31,466
Creativity, arts and culturePhysical and mental health, well-beingReception and integration of refugees and migrants

Objectives

By implementing the Creative Wave: Visual Arts Natural Co-Lab project, we aim to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive non-formal education space where young people aged 18–30 from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Spain—especially those with fewer opportunities—can meet in an international group, experience meaningful collaboration, and strengthen their competencies through creative processes in contact with nature. From a youth work perspective, the project responds to the needs of young people from rural areas and socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds who have limited access to quality cultural activities and often experience social isolation, stress, and low self-confidence when engaging in international opportunities. Our intention is to enhance their personal development and mental well-being so that participants do not become merely passive recipients, but active co-creators who allow themselves to be carried by a free creative flow. The project places a strong emphasis on activities related to visual arts, which are designed as an inspiring laboratory open to absolutely everyone, regardless of previous experience, talent, or artistic performance. The goal is not a perfect result, but the very process of discovery, experimentation, and authentic self-expression, which breaks down internal barriers and the fear of evaluation. We want to develop the key competencies of young people, particularly creativity, communication and teamwork skills, the ability to collaborate in an international environment, and the capacity to present their own ideas through visual language. At the same time, we aim to boost their self-confidence by providing space for young people to take initiative and, in certain parts of the program, step into roles with greater responsibility under the mentorship of experienced youth workers. A vital objective is also practical inclusion and social integration, specifically for young refugees from Ukraine, through sensitive facilitation, building a safe environment, and creating equal opportunities for group involvement. Within the project content, we bridge visual creation with environmental sustainability, allowing participants to gain concrete experience with more ecological approaches, working with natural materials, and reflecting on the impact of their own decisions. Part of our goals includes supporting well-being and healthier habits, as staying in nature, slowing down, and immersing oneself in the creative flow—combined with a break from digital overload—creates conditions for stress reduction and strengthening internal stability. Overall, we want to ensure that young people take away the experience that international cooperation and creativity are accessible to them, gain competencies applicable in life, and feel motivated to bring new impulses and self-confidence back to their communities after the exchange ends.

Project partners (3)