TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Vika Matuzaite
Aims of INSIDE OUT programme:
- The Inside Out model aims to support young peoples’ identity exploration in relation with life experiences, the development of self-awareness & solidarity and supports young peoples’ sense of agency. Our priority goal in this programme is to support all young people in achieving a high quality of life in an equitable world.
- The Inside Out programme aims to equip youth workers with a solid youth development method to guide young people in their identity development.
It was an intercultural group, composed mainly of EU citizents. The main requirements for attending this TC were:
- Above 18 and proficient in English;
- Active in youth work on a regular basis;
- Sensitive towards the topic and motivation to collaborate with young people with different backgrounds;
- Willing to learn new ways to work on identity development of young people;
- Passionate about and willing to learn new skills in the field of youth work, socio-educational work with young people;
- Willing to work in a non-hierarchical and peer based way together with colleague youth workers and young people from different countries.
The methodology in this training is based on experiential learning and non-formal education, aiming to create an atmosphere where participants can learn from each other (peer learning) and feel empowered to share their experiences, reflect and critically examine their practice. A specific focus will be given to the critical theory, its practical outcomes and their transferability to youth work.
After the training course partcipants:
1. were able to empower other youngsters in their direct environment and were more able to use the underlying philosophy, approach and framework actively.
2. understood better and could apply the right attitude and the power of listening and asking questions to create the space for youngsters to be themselves and find their own answers. They are also able to hold the space for not-knowing.
3. understand group dynamics, ensure balanced participation and are able to improvise based on the needs of the group.
4. knew how to use their open, curious attitude towards themselves to connect with the group they are guiding and provide personal examples. They were aware of how their own convictions, beliefs and character can work for as well as against them in guiding the group;
5. knew how to support their target groups in a more compassionate and critical ways, not putting so much emphasis on personal responsibility.
I was one of two main organisers of the activity, during the TC I worked as a full time trainer, designing the overall programme, choosing specific methods and adapting them to the needs of the group throughout the whole TC. working in collaboration with other international trainer.