From Caterpillar to Butterfly

Aims & objectives

The training aimed to support youth workers in accompanying young people through processes of personal transformation, self-awareness and empowerment.
The objectives were to strengthen participants’ competences in facilitating non-formal and experiential learning focused on identity, emotions, resilience and life transitions, using holistic, creative and embodied approaches. The training addressed the need for youth workers to work with inner change processes as a foundation for social engagement, participation and well-being.

Target group & international/intercultural composition of the group & team

The activity involved 27 youth workers from 8 countries: Italy, Romania, Hungary, Sweden, Greece, Spain, Estonia and Germany. The project included 16 participants with fewer opportunities, facing social, economic and/or geographical obstacles

Training methods used & main activities

The training was fully based on non-formal and experiential learning, following Kolb’s experiential learning cycle and integrating structured reflection and transfer. Methods included ice-breakers and group-building, expectation setting, daily reflection and debriefings, mentorship meetings, peer-to-peer support, simulations and practical exercises, self-directed learning elements, Open Space and presentations, and a final session on translating experience into competences using Youthpass.

Outcomes of the activity

Participants strengthened their capacity to support disadvantaged young people towards inclusion through more impactful and holistic non-formal education. Outcomes included improved ability to design adapted educational activities, increased motivation and competence in mentoring/guidance, and concrete follow-up intentions to implement local workshops and multiplying activities. The project also planned tangible outputs such as a booklet of good practices and a short project film to support dissemination and transfer.

Your tasks and responsibilities within the team

I worked as a coordinator, full-time trainer, co-facilitating the programme with two other trainers. My responsibilities included co-designing the learning flow, facilitating mindfulness-based, embodied and creative sessions, holding reflective and emotional safety spaces, supporting group dynamics, and contributing to evaluation and follow-up planning.

I worked on this training for 8 days as a full time trainer.