TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Diana Kovačić
AIM: Creating a space to explore the Polish approach in the context of cultural activities, to exchange approaches and challenges among participants, and to encourage new organizations to take part in the program.
OBJECTIVES: Get to know concrete practices, methods, and tools that were developed by Polish organizations which create cultural projects: Understand how youth work can inspire and support when it comes to create cultural projects; Get to know how to create and implement a valuable cultural project; Learn from each other by sharing experiences and expertise on the topics and aspects mentioned above; Become aware of how the European Youth programmes could be used to work on the topic.
- to show how culture-related projects are implemented in Polish organizations
- to carry out networking activities for organizations participating in the event
- to encourage new organizations to implement their own projects
26 representatives of cultural and youth organisations from various European countries, including both EU and neighbouring regions. The group included professionals working in cultural institutions, NGOs, and grassroots organisations active in youth participation, social inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and creative education. Participants represented a wide spectrum of experience — from emerging youth leaders to experienced project coordinators — which contributed to rich exchanges of perspectives and practices throughout the visit.
The methodology was built upon the principles of non-formal education, experiential learning, and intercultural dialogue. All sessions were designed to ensure active engagement, creativity, and meaningful reflection. The trainers used a balanced mix of interactive, analytical, and reflective methods to foster collaboration, empathy, and deep learning among participants.
Each activity served a specific learning purpose and contributed to the overall objectives of the visit: Icebreakers, creative networking ("Poncho", speed dating), Creative thinking, analytical observation and (self)reflection (This is not a....this is...), junk journaling, street art intervention, World Café, Gallery of good practices.
Based on prepared (online) evaluation form as well as oral feedback from the participants, the Study Visit successfully achieved its objectives by combining learning, inspiration, and intercultural exchange in a creative and inclusive way. The programme provided participants with valuable insights into the Polish and European cultural scene, as well as practical ideas for applying Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps opportunities in their own contexts.
The diverse learning formats - from study visits and creative workshops to reflection and peer exchange - allowed participants to gain both professional knowledge and personal inspiration. The event strengthened their motivation to design collaborative initiatives and to integrate inclusive and sustainable practices into their everyday work. The event served not only as a professional development opportunity, but also as a powerful reminder of the role culture and youth work play in building inclusive, empathetic and connected European communities.
Design and implementation of the programme in cooperation with the preparatory team
Facilitation of the event in Krakow (22-26 of September 2025)
Design and implementation of the event evaluation
Reporting of the event.
Diana Kovačić showed excellent teamwork, intercultural awareness, and methodological competence, effectively leading a diverse team of professionals from various European countries. Her facilitation style was engaging, well-organized, and always centred on the participants.
I fully recommend Diana Kovačić as an experienced international trainer with strong expertise in non-formal learning, creative methodologies, and design thinking in youth and cultural education.