NL 23–29/4/2026

«SHIFT» TC

Ommen, the Netherlands,

“shift” can be seen as a transformational learning experience focused on interpersonal skills

This program offered critical reflection, fresh approaches to working with groups, a present and connected mindset, ownership of learning, trust-building and guidance, confidence in navigating uncertainty and change . Core aim of “shift “is not to deliver “better” workshops, but to strengthen your ability to recognize learning as it happens. The focus was on tools and approaches that helped identify learning in simple situations, adapt activities to the real needs of young people, and make meaningful interventions when it matters most.

It was a training course in the frame of ERASMU+ youth . The Greek group of Unesco club of Serres express below their experiences

Articles-Testimonials

– NL “SHIFT” training (UNESCO CLUB OF SERRES & STITCHING IMPACT)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There is something special about being placed in an environment where you’re constantly learning, challenged to step out of your comfort zone and surrounded by people who slowly become a part of your daily life. That is exactly what this training became for me.

Upon my arrival at Olde Wechte I had a feeling of confusion, uncertainty and thought I was lost in everything. This experience was totally new for me and a few things on the first days didn’t sit right. I was really confused as to why we’re doing specific things but then something changed. After learning the fundamentals, we started practicing, discussing, reflecting and putting the knowledge into work in a really fun way. We started getting closer together and every day that was passing by I felt like I was changing in a good way. Not only learning, but also practicing made everything sink in and feel natural to do. Seeing our weak points, our strengths and areas of improvement made us have a clear image of our goal. This was exactly what our facilitators achieved. Not only make people learn, but for them to have an interactive experience with what they want to learn so they can put it in their daily lives.

Seeing our facilitators speak so confidently and naturally, I thought it was just them; that they weren’t stressed or anything, but rather that they were great at it. Through the days I learnt that being a facilitator comes with lots of responsibilities and aspects to explore; body language, voice tone, preparation, engagement, ways of preparing a workshop right, adapting to the group and environment and controlling your emotions. After learning and practicing all of this I feel like every young person could benefit from a program like this one. We all more or less have to work with people at some point in our lives and learning how to adapt to environments, be a good leader and adjust are really useful skills for one to have. No matter what they do for a living, I think this knowledge can apply to many if not all the fields.

What makes experiences like this one special is not only the knowledge you gain, but the way that they change you without even realizing at first. Somewhere between the workshops, reflections, laughter and challenges, I left not only with new skills but with a stronger sense of confidence in myself and my abilities. This training showed me that learning becomes far more meaningful when people are encouraged to actively experience things rather than simply listen to them. The skills and lessons I developed throughout this week are things I know I will always carry with me both professionally and personally.

Artemis Tsatsaroni

The April of 2026 made me want to freeze the time. When you’re swimming in happiness, you forget to come up for air.

I traveled to Ommen, in the Netherlands, for a training course so unforgettable that it could only be considered a truly unique Erasmus+ project.

It was called «Shift», and in just seven days it taught us how to become the best facilitators we could be.

Seven days that felt like seconds to me.

People from six different countries came together there with one common goal: to become youth workers through connection, impact, and above all, cooperation.

It was not easy at all, but nothing is impossible for young people, is it? That’s why Shift brought together people full of dreams, thirst for knowledge, and dedication.

«Shift» was not just another Erasmus+ program, but a week full of intense learning. A truly exemplary project. One workshop followed another, and time seemed far too short to contain so many ambitions and desires. Yet we made it. Sometimes lying on the grass of Olde Vechte, dizzy from the sun, and other times jumping over high ropes.

In the end, we all understood what communication, teamwork, and above all, what reflection truly mean.

After all, personally, what I will keep most, is my own impact from this experience. I will keep the people who embraced me , they were the real sunshine of Ommen, the ones who warmed my heart. We might not have spoken the same language, but during those seven days, I am certain we saw the world through the same eyes.

But in the end is this what truly matters? It is definitely the only thing that matters. Always.

Angeliki Chalkia (Greece)

For one week, we learned, shared, reflected, laughed, exchanged ideas, and connected with people from different countries and backgrounds.

Through workshops, activities, and many inspiring conversations, we explored the facilitator’s role, learned how to design meaningful trainings, and discovered more about teamwork, communication, and the power of non-formal education.

One part that I found especially valuable was exploring our personal virtues and learning how we can use them in difficult situations while facilitating groups. We also got encouraged to discover and develop our own personal style as trainers and facilitators, which made the whole experience feel even more authentic and empowering.

What I will remember the most is not only the knowledge we gained, but also the feeling of connection, openness, and support that this experience created. It reminded me how important it is for young people to have spaces where they can express themselves, grow, and feel included.

I’m truly grateful for everything this project gave me – new skills, new perspectives, unforgettable memories, and wonderful people that I’m happy to have met along the way. (https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7458493150119096320/ )

Maria Grigoriadou