International Seen & Heard Festival

The study visit offers opportunities to learn from practice, make new contacts, and reflect on how quality volunteering and youth engagement can strengthen organisations and empower young people across Europe. Organised in connection with the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, this study visit brings together participants from selected countries to explore inspiring European Solidarity Corps volunteering initiatives and Solidarity Projects.

Participants' profile

This study visit is open only to participants connected to Solidarity projects and volunteering activities implemented in Austria, Czech Republic, Egypt, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, and The Netherlands. The limited geographical scope ensures the participation of volunteering organisations, solidarity project teams and former volunteers connected to the International Seen & Heard documentary.

Objectives

• By participating in the International Seen & Heard Festival Study Visit you will
• discover how volunteering changes lives and strengthens communities across Europe.
• Visit Irish volunteering organisations and solidarity projects, meet the people behind their work, and explore different approaches to promote youth engagement and solidarity.
• Exchange experiences with participants from other countries, discuss common challenges, and learn from each other's successes.
• Experience the screening of the International Seen & Heard documentary film. The film celebrates young people and organisations who take action, support their communities, and help build a more inclusive and connected Europe.
• Connect with policy makers during the movie screening
• Use these stories as a starting point for reflection, discussion, and to develop new ideas.

Safety & accessibility 

In this event, we follow the principles of a safe space. We strive to ensure that everyone is met as their own self and that no one has to fear discrimination or harassment. We expect you to respect the same principle. 

Our activities are accessible to people with different abilities. If you need an accessible room, an accessible transport, to bring a personal assistant with you or other kind of support, we will provide it for you. We also respect the diets and food allergies of all participants. Please tell us about your individual needs beforehand, so we can support you in your participation. 

Methods and methodology

Study Visit and Movie Screening

The study visit is based on non-formal learning methodologies and experiential learning, therefore it will ask for a high level of participants' involvement during the event. Participants are expected to arrive in Dublin on 2 December 2026 before 17:00 and depart no earlier than after lunch on 5 December 2026.

Composition of the team

The Study Visit is organised by Léargas and supported by SALTO ESC, in collaboration with a Preparatory Team comprising key stakeholders and National Agencies. The programme will be facilitated by Rachel Kelly, Dave Kelly, and Niamh Smith, members of the Léargas Trainers Panel.