TC Reconnection to the basics

TC Reconnection to the basics

The training course for youth workers, Reconnection to the Basics, took place from July 19 to 26, 2026, in Latvia. The program was held at two locations: in the peaceful surroundings of the Debesu Bloda guesthouse in the Ogre district, and on the last day, in the capital city of Riga. Youth workers, mentors, and other individuals active in the field of youth work from various European countries gathered for the training.

The main objective of the course was to reconnect with oneself, the surroundings, and nature through non-formal education. An important component was strengthening our well-being and our ability to build meaningful relationships in both personal and professional life. The course was based on the idea that if we want to support young people in their personal growth, we must first learn to take care of ourselves.

The program was filled with workshops, outdoor activities, and sharing experiences. A crucial part was also creating space for slowing down, recharging, and reflection. In our daily lives, we often dedicate a lot of energy to work and responsibilities, forgetting to also think about ourselves and our needs. Each day, we could observe whether our perception of the surroundings changed during the training, what we gained from individual activities, and what we would like to bring into our personal lives. This reflection, in particular, helped me realize the importance of regularly taking time for myself and pausing.

One of the activities that left the biggest impression on me was when we had to be alone in silence in nature for almost two hours.

In addition to education, the training was also a great opportunity to build new relationships. Every day, we had a multicultural snack and afternoon tea, during which each participant brought a small refreshment typical of their country and shared it with others. We also dedicated one evening to traditional dances from each country. Thanks to these moments, we had the opportunity to get to know new cultures and other participants.

I brought home, above all, new motivation to continue working on myself, to educate myself, and to pass on the acquired knowledge and experience.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the project organizers for their excellent work, pleasant atmosphere, and for creating a safe environment for reflection and relaxation.