TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Marzena Ples
The training course STEP IN was designed to empower youth workers with advanced skills in multicultural communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution. Its core aim was to strengthen participants' ability to navigate complex intercultural situations by equipping them with both theoretical insights and practical tools. The objectives included exploring the roots of different types of conflicts, promoting the use of Alternative Dispute Resolutions (ADR), developing effective communication and negotiation strategies, and fostering active youth participation in civil society. The training aimed to create a space where dialogue becomes an art of insight, empathy, and constructive action.
The course brought together a diverse international group of youth workers and trainers from various European and neighboring regions, each contributing unique cultural insights and experiences to enrich the learning process. Participants came from Armenia, Belarus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Norway, Poland, Spain, Ukraine.
The entire training was structured around a field game set in the imaginary land of Atlantis, where participants encountered a simulated real-life conflict scenario that required them to negotiate, mediate, and resolve disputes using a blend of advanced communication techniques. Alongside this immersive role-play, the programme incorporated interactive workshops, lectures, and group activities designed to promote hands-on learning and reflective discussion.
As a result of the training, participants significantly enhanced their skills in negotiation, mediation, and cross-cultural communication. They gained a deeper understanding of how cultural background shapes communication and learned to decode and respond to messages with greater sensitivity. Participants became more confident in managing complex group dynamics and resolving conflicts through peaceful means. The experience not only expanded their professional toolkit but also boosted their awareness of their role as mediators and dialogue facilitators in their communities. The training also laid the foundation for future international cooperation and project development among participants.
As a full-time trainer and co-designer of the programme, I was responsible for shaping the content and flow of the training course, ensuring it met the learning objectives while remaining engaging and relevant. I facilitated key sessions, guided participants through the Atlantis field game, and supported their learning through debriefings and reflection.
Marzena Plez is a true professional in her field. She is one of the people who stood at the roots of the Youth in Action programme (Erasmus+ programme) and has an impressive background in the field of project-based work. We’ve known each other for many years, and it was through projects that we first connected.
Marzena has extensive knowledge and experience in the field of non-formal education. She is both a creator and educator in various projects and has facilitated a large number of educational activities for youth workers. We have also had wonderful experiences working together - both in long-term and short-term projects. There were times when I worked as a trainer in her projects, and she also worked as a trainer here in Estonia.
Marzena is always full of fresh and creative ideas. She can take on various roles - from writing and coordinating projects to delivering them as a trainer. She possesses a wide range of skills and is truly a high specialist
I can wholeheartedly recommend Marzena as an outstanding expert in the field of non-formal education.