This summer from 22nd to 28th June, 36 young people from Romania, Macedonia, Georgia, and Spain came together in Slovakia for a week-long youth exchange focused on one powerful theme: Understanding Cultural Differences in Relationships. In the beautiful location in Ladonhora, the project brought together 6 participants and 1 team leader from each of the four partner organizations:

• Puzzles (Romania)

• VCS (Macedonia)

• Umbrella (Georgia)

• Casa de la Juventud Guadalcázar (Spain)

Throughout the exchange, participants engaged in a rich program of activities aimed at deepening intercultural understanding, fostering empathy, and strengthening personal connections.

Why This Topic?

Relationships are at the heart of our daily lives—whether romantic, friendship, or professional. But how we build and maintain those connections is often influenced by the cultural norms we grow up with. Young people today are more connected than ever, yet many still struggle with misunderstandings in cross-cultural communication—especially in friendships, online spaces, and international projects. That’s why we chose to explore:

• How different cultures express emotions and affection

• The role of personal space, gender norms, and emotional boundaries

• Communication styles and conflict resolution across cultures

• How traditions and customs shape the way we relate to others

Our goal was to raise awareness, empathy, and intercultural competence among youth, equipping them with tools for better understanding in our diverse world.

What Did We Do?

Each day, a different national team took the lead, running workshops on sub-topics like communication styles, relationship types, emotional connection, and traditions. The learning was hands-on and creative, including:

• Interactive workshops led by the youth participants

• Role plays and simulation games to explore real-life cultural scenarios

• Country presentations focused on cultural values and relationship norms

• Art-based reflection sessions using drawing, theatre, and storytelling

• Outdoor team-building activities and hiking, including a survival challenge

• Final evaluation and group reflection to wrap up the week

A Taste of Home, Shared Abroad

One of the most heartwarming traditions during the exchange was the intercultural dinner nights. Each evening, one country hosted the entire group, preparing a traditional dinner that introduced everyone to their local flavors and hospitality. Without leaving Slovakia, we “traveled” through Romania, Macedonia, Georgia, and Spain—sharing not just meals, but stories, laughs, and unforgettable memories.

By the end of the week, it felt like we weren’t just participants in a project—we were one big international family. Through food, storytelling, games, and deep conversations, we discovered that while cultures may differ, our desire for connection, respect, and understanding is universal.

This project was supported by the Erasmus+ program. 

Team KERIC

Matilde Comparini,

ESC Volunteer from Italy

2024/2025