Embracing the Unexpected: My Erasmus+ Journey in Spodnje Vrtiče

 Embracing the Unexpected:
My Erasmus+ Journey in Spodnje Vrtiče

#Erasmus+ #Slovenia #Turkey #Romania #Latvia #Poland #SpodnjeVrtiče

Life often presents us with unexpected opportunities, and it's our response to these moments that can shape our futures in remarkable ways. This past summer, as I found myself with some free time and a yearning for something new, I stumbled upon a golden opportunity – an open slot in the Erasmus+ project called "Advocate!" held in the charming village of Spodnje Vrtiče, Slovenia, from September 4th to September 11th, 2023.

With only two spaces left and mere hours before the application deadline, I took a leap of faith and signed up, not fully realizing the profound impact it would have on my life. As I recount my journey in this blog post, I invite you to join me in exploring the transformative power of embracing the unexpected.

The Journey Begins: Arrival and First Impressions

As participants from five different countries embarked on this adventure, our paths converged in Spodnje Vrtiče. Whether we arrived by bus, plane, or car, the excitement in the air was palpable. I'll admit that I was a bit nervous at first, but that feeling quickly evaporated when I realized I was surrounded by a fantastic group of individuals.

One of the remarkable aspects of our project was its setting amidst the natural beauty of Spodnje Vrtiče. Despite the week's busy schedule, the serene environment made it feel like home, and time flew by as we enjoyed each other's company.

Photo by: Alissa
The photo shows the landscape of Spodnje Vrtiče, there's a blue bicycle in the middle. 

Cultural Exchange and Bonding

"Advocate!" brought together participants from Latvia, Turkey, Poland, Romania, and, of course, Slovenia, each representing their unique culture. To foster understanding and camaraderie, we celebrated our diversity through cultural nights. These events were a blast, filled with country-specific music, dancing, and bonding that transcended borders.

While I didn't learn much about Slovenian culture during the project, I had the privilege of diving deep into the rich traditions, music, and beverages of Romania, Turkey, Poland, and Latvia. It was a colorful tapestry of experiences that expanded my horizons.

Highlights of the Project Activities

The heart of the project lay in exploring fundamental human rights, discussing rights in various contexts, breaking down stereotypes, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities. We delved into research on the protection of human rights in our respective countries, honed advocacy skills, and were inspired by examples of impactful advocacy.

The themes of the project were not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply meaningful, leaving all of us with valuable insights and a shared sense of purpose.

Building Lasting Friendships

With English as our common language, communication flowed effortlessly among participants. One unique tradition we developed was our own version of "Marco Polo," a playful reminder of our vibrant group dynamic.

What truly made this experience unforgettable was the depth of connections we formed. In just one week, we transformed from strangers into a cohesive and supportive team. It was a testament to the power of collaboration when people come together with open hearts and minds.

Challenges and Growth

Undoubtedly, with 33 participants, things got lively at times. Our "Marco Polo" game was just one example of how we navigated the occasional chaos. Personally, this project provided me with opportunities to enhance my communication, teamwork, and creative skills. It also opened my eyes to the daily challenges faced by blind individuals, deepening my empathy and understanding.

Memorable Moments and Lessons

Among the myriad memories, one moment that stands out is when a fellow participant courageously shared her experience of living with a severely disabled person. Her story touched my heart and profoundly transformed my perspective.

The Impact on My Future Goals

Participating in "Advocate!" has left an indelible mark on my personal and professional journey. I believe it will contribute to my growth as a compassionate and effective advocate for human rights. I eagerly look forward to the possibility of joining similar projects in the future.

Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

To all my readers, I leave you with this: Follow your dreams and embrace the opportunities that come your way. Life has a remarkable way of surprising us when we dare to say "yes." Thank you to everyone who was part of this incredible project. Your kindness and camaraderie made it an unforgettable week. I hope we stay connected and cross paths again in the future. With love and gratitude to you all!

The photo by ODTIZ Institute Facebook site
The photo shows photograph of all the participants of the Erasmus + project "Advocate"




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