Don’t stop me now – It’s time to pop the bubble.

In an enchanted castle in Neumarkt in der Steiermark, 41 young people gathered from July 15th to 25nd to disconnect from their devices and to exchange ideas, and learn from each other.  The Erasmus+ youth exchange brought together 41 young participants from Austria and five partner countries including Croatia, Denmark, Malta, Spain and Slovenia, aged 17 to 27.

The main topic of the project was to identify the bubbles that shape our world, question them and “pop their bubbles”, understand how they are shaped, to explore the effects of social media, polarization, and personal biases, how to expand their views beyond that and gain deeper understanding of our society. 

During the project the participants gave up their phones going through a digital detox for 4 days, while their every day was filled with engaging discussions, and non-formal learning methods, games and exploring the nearby region. Together they reflected on their own bubbles, they exchanged ideas and developed skills on respectful communication and dialogue. None of the participants felt left out from the world during the disconnection days while they created stronger bonds between them, exchanged food culture through a cultural brunch, cooperated to walk blindfolded, teamed up and explored the nearby village in a treasure hunt, creating a spirit to carry into each of their communities.

Attending the Young European Federalists seminar in Styria was one of the best experiences of my life. I arrived feeling shy and unsure, but I left with a heart full of new friendships and unforgettable memories. For the first time, I opened up to people from all over Europe and discovered how much we share. I even tried things I never imagined I would dare to do, and it felt amazing! This seminar truly changed the way I see myself and others. – Inés 

Participating in the Erasmus exchange was an unforgettable experience that I truly enjoyed. It gave me the opportunity to acquire valuable new skills and build lasting connections across cultures. What stood out most was the incredible variety of activities and the full schedule that kept every day exciting and meaningful. – Patricia