Training course " We care"

Aims & objectives

This Training course named "We Care," focused on mental health. A topic of increasing significance due to war, pandemic and rising social and financial insecurities. It aimed to teach youth workers about mental health and support systems both nationally and within the EU. We wanted to explore different ways to help youth workers and Educators with their mental well-being and create a checklist based on the best methods for future exchanges. By emphasizing the importance of listening to young people and understanding their mental health struggles early on, the training aligned with our organizations' goals of supporting youth and promoting their well-being. Overall, it aimed to raise awareness and provide practical tools to help youth workers in their work with young people to navigate mental health challenges.

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

For this Training course we had 25 youth workers above 18+ years old from Spain, France, the Netherlands, Romania and Germany.

Training methods used & main activities

In this Training course, I carefully selected non-formal learning methods to address the sensitive topic of mental health. To begin, I used the "work in pairs" method, where participants discussed their views on mental health with each other. Then, I organized a "Living Library" activity, where participants visited different tables with people discussing various mental health topics, allowing for open dialogue and questions. Lastly, I facilitated a filming and photography session, where participants created videos or pictures representing mental health in ways they chose, using any materials they wanted. These methods encouraged active engagement and creativity while respecting the sensitivity of the topic.

Outcomes of the activity

The training activity aimed to destigmatize the topic of mental health and create a safe environment for participants to share and reflect. The success of the training was evident through the openness of participants each day, indicating that our goals were being achieved. Daily evaluations were conducted to ensure clarity and closeness with participants. Additionally, an online evaluation form was distributed at the end, with participants' feedback confirming that our aim of providing a space for young people to speak up was achieved.

Please find below a link to the activity :
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cyk_FzSudCR/?igsh=NGJ2dHozYzkxcjdn&img_index=1

Your tasks and responsibilities within the team

As part of the trainers' team, I was responsible for preparing for the Training course. This includes organizing all logistical aspects, preparing materials, and coordinating arrival logistics. Throughout the Training, I welcomed participants, led team-building activities, and organized city tours. In addition, I facilitated workshops introducing the topic and led the planned workshops for each day. I also facilitated Youthpass workshops and coordinated intercultural nights. My responsibilities extended to conducting evaluations to ensure the program's success. I was responsible with my other colleague for the whole program.

I worked on this training for 3 days as a full time trainer.