TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Richárd Kiss
The training aimed to strengthen youth workers’ competences in inclusion, accessibility, and intersectionality. It addressed the need for practical tools, reflective spaces, and deeper awareness of privilege, identity, and systemic barriers in youth work. The activity was aligned with the EU Inclusion & Diversity Strategy and the organisations’ commitment to fostering accessible, equitable learning spaces and cooperation across Europe.
The course brought together youth workers and professionals from multiple European countries, representing diverse cultural, social, and professional backgrounds. Participants’ experience ranged from newcomers to EU projects to those with decades of expertise, which created a rich ground for peer learning. The international trainers’ team also reflected this diversity, ensuring multiple perspectives and practices were embedded in the process.
The methodology was rooted in non-formal education and experiential learning. Key approaches included: identity mapping (“Puzzle of Life”), intersectionality reflection with the Power Flower, World Café discussions, a Human Library, and an accessibility treasure hunt in the streets of Athens. The programme also featured a self-directed “Intersectionality Learning Festival,” embodiment and grounding exercises, peer support groups, and future-planning tools. This variety balanced theory, practice, and personal reflection.
The training strengthened participants’ capacity to integrate inclusion and accessibility in their daily practice, and offered concrete tools for working with diverse groups. Participants reported transformative personal growth, stronger awareness of privilege and systemic barriers, and the ability to apply methods directly in their youth work. Networking and future collaboration opportunities were also fostered. Evaluation results and participant reports confirmed the programme’s high impact, with unanimous recommendations. Documentation included the accessible Athens route guide, participant dissemination reports, and detailed feedback.
I worked as a full-time trainer, responsible for co-designing the programme, facilitating sessions on personal identity, intersectionality, and accessibility in practice. I guided daily reflection groups, co-facilitated the Learning Festival, and ensured accessibility measures such as real-time descriptions, inclusive materials, and multiple learning formats. I contributed to adapting the flow based on participants’ needs, and supported both the group process and individual learning journeys throughout the course.