Summary of the Youth Exchange
The theme of Solidarity still needs to be promoted among young people. Still we are in times where can be seen great social and economic disparities between people. Also can be seen the ever-increasing fear of young people, which and thus a growing need – to define ourselves against those who are different, which leads not only to rejection others, but often also to hate speech in both the online and offline world.
This Youth Exchange "Exploring Solidarity" is going not only to bring different young people from abroad together but also let them experience solidarity so that their personal attitudes towards others begin to change.
that it only takes a little to bring good among the people in your community;
to be sensitive to others around you, to their needs and their situation, and to learn how to respond with solidarity to them;
sharing and practising solidarity in every single moment of the exchange;
visiting some places with people in need to bring solidarity also to them;
moments of fun, games and getting to know each other and our beautiful countries;
everyday spiritual programme (worship, testimonies, teaching etc.).
Elizabete Mežule
Came to Slovakia as an ESC volunteer almost two years ago, and now lives here and works in V.I.A.C. – Institute for youth support and development as a coordinator of international volunteers. Elizabete also organises different Erasmus+ youth exchanges and trainings which brings a lot of amazing opportunities to meet very different people.
Who can participate?
at the age from 13 to 22 from participating countries;
who are interested in the topic;
who can speak English at a conversational level.
From the group leader we expect:
active support of young people in the preparation part and within all the duration of the youth exchange;
aking responsibility in solving the problems that may occur in the group;
taking part in the common meetings according to the schedule.
reading all the information carefully;
communicating timely with the organisers;
preparing adequately for the youth exchange according to the instructions;
taking actively part in the full duration of the activities;
to participate in the evaluation process after the youth exchange;
to participate in sharing the results and outcomes of the youth exchange after the youth exchange is over.
The Youth Exchange will take place in village Zuberec in guest house Chata Primula. Zuberec is a part of Orava - rural region with a majority of people living in small villages.
The accommodation will be in shared rooms of between 2 and 4 people. Showers and toilets are shared. The sheets and towels will be provided. The course is residential, so we will stay together in the venue for the whole time.
This guesthouse offers agrotourism activities like stay in the farmer's yard with a tasting of cheese products. Place surrounds with beautiful environment – there are lot of opportunities for recreation, exploration, relaxation, enjoyment of natural beauty, hiking, nature walks, barbecue on the outdoor fireplace.
First of all you need to arrive on 15th (Wednesday) of May, but depart on 21st (Tuesday) of May. And we recommend two options:
Take a flight to Krakow;
From Krakow bus station take a bus to Dolný Kubín and get out in Nižná.
As you exit the Krakow's airport you need to get to Krakow Main Bus station. And on the stations upper floor you can take Flix Bus to Dolný Kubín.
Take a flight to Vienna or Bratislava;
From Vienna or Bratislava take a bus to Dolný Kubín and get out in Nižná.
Take a FlixBus to Dolný Kubín. Ask the driver to let you out in Nižná.
3. From Nižná take a bus to Zuberec, Chata Primula.
Check bus departure times. There is a direct bus to Novot', others are changing in Lokca or Zákamenné.
! Please download traffic app "CP" or visit their site to check all timetables of Slovakia's public transport !
To receive reimbursement of travel expenses (plane/bus/train) we need you to deliver us following documents:
Invoice of your flight tickets, originals of bus or train tickets (invoice received from the airline/bus company if you buy the tickets online or from the travelling agency if you buy the tickets via an agency);
Boarding pass (from both ways). We suggest to take a screenshot of boarding pass, because it isn't always sent to an email.
*Please note that that travel costs will be reimbursed only for those who:
stay for the whole period of the youth exchange;
who fills the final report after the youth exchange is over;
actively participate in sharing the results and outcomes of the exchange after the exchange is over.
Beakfast, lunch, dinner and coffee breaks are all included. Also individual eating habits of participants will be taken into account, but don't be afraid to try Slovak traditionals!
It is the participant's responsibility to obtain full insurance for themselves. This includes travel insurance, medical insurance or European Health Insurance Card.
The place is strictly non-alcoholic, so we kindly ask you to respect it.
Please prepare presentation (together with all group) of your country, culture, habits which:
is interactive (other participants must be involved);
must NOT be boring – be creative as much as possible.
In the programme of the exchange every group will have creative workshop to create small presents for people in need. Your group will lead the workshop for other participants to teach them how to create those gifts.
Please choose together with your group what do you want to create and send us the list of materials you will need for it, so we can arrange it before the exchange.
Please for making gifts choose any technique you want but that you are also able to teach others (it means no too complicated and taking too much time). For the workshop you will have maximum 1,5 hours.
Please bring some national food, treats or some souvenirs for all participants (all costs are on your side).
The youth exchange will include outdoor activities. Please pack clothes which are also suitable for outdoor activities. And also be prepared that it can be colder here in Slovakia, or it may rain here.
On 8th of May at 17:00 (Slovak time, GTM+2)
There is going to be an online meeting with all participants and group leaders before the activity takes part here in Slovakia. There we will meet each other and also clarify what is needed to be prepared.