Beyond the Limits! introduction

Beyond the limits! Introduction

The "Beyondthelimits" training took place from August 8th to 17th in Slovakia. Its goal was to develop the leadership skills of youth workers, social workers, and youth leaders. The educational activities also strengthened their competencies for better cooperation, communication, and problem-solving related to youth work.

The first day of the Beyondthelimits training began with the obligatory introductions of participants, trainers, and the environment of the Jahodná resort. After presenting the project goals, indicators, and expected outcomes, participants were invited to present their expectations as well as the contributions they bring to the project activities. Despite the limitations related to COVID-19, we managed to gather a strong group of youth workers and youth leaders from Hungary, Poland, Romania, Italy, and, of course, Slovakia. Right on the first day, it was confirmed that the topic of leadership and teamwork is important and necessary for youth work. Afternoon activities began with intensive team building and getting to know the local community. Participants were invited to interact with a local children's camp and its leaders. This was followed by activities focused on working with Youthpass, with an emphasis on the differences between developing a Youthpass and conducting reflection leading to its development. We concluded the evening with reflection and informal storytelling.

The second day of the BeyondtheLimits training offered a closer look at the topic of leadership. The introductory activities were dedicated to evaluating the current level of participants' competencies, their perspectives, and experiences with the topic. After theoretical inputs presenting the skills and qualities of effective leaders, we explored several definitions and approaches to team leadership /Situational and Behavioral Theory; John Alexander, Skills of Effective Leaders; Yvonne Roberts/. The emphasis was primarily on the competencies needed for leaders working with youth. This was followed by activities allowing participants to reflect on their already acquired competencies and those they still need to acquire for youth work. Afternoon activities were dedicated to an introduction to group work and teamwork. This was followed by getting to know the city of Košice through an enjoyable City Quest. In it, participants in smaller groups had to complete many tasks in which they interacted with the local population. The final reflection allowed for a closer consideration of how to design similar activities for young people.

Beyond the Limits is funded by the Erasmus+ program, administered by Iuventa – Slovak Youth Institute.