Are you between the ages 18-30 and passionate about human rights, gender equality, and making a real difference in your community? Join us for an inspiring Erasmus+ youth exchange that brings together young people from across Europe to raise awareness about violence against women, promote gender equality, and empower youth to take action.
- Date: 18. – 25. April 2025 (travel days are Fridays)
- Location: Riga, Latvia
- Profile of participants: 18-30 years old
- Registration: https://bit.ly/my_eu_project
Change Starts Now is more than a youth exchange—it’s a platform for empowerment, awareness, and activism. The project focuses on:
- Understanding and recognizing the many forms of violence against women
- Raising awareness on gender inequality and its societal impact
- Sharing youth perspectives and experiences across cultures
- Developing practical skills like leadership, public speaking, and collaboration
- Equipping participants with methods for activism and youth work
All activities are based on non-formal education methods, ensuring a participatory, inclusive, and creative learning environment.
Throughout the exchange, participants will take part in interactive workshops, group discussions, and creative sessions that explore how youth can challenge gender stereotypes and stand up against gender-based violence. There will also be time for intercultural evenings, informal networking, and discovering the beautiful city of Riga.
What Will You Learn?
During this youth exchange, you will:
- Understand the different forms of violence against women and girls, including physical, emotional, and cyber violence
- Reflect on and challenge gender stereotypes and societal norms
- Learn about human rights, equality, and intersectionality in the context of youth
- Build skills in teamwork, leadership, critical thinking, and public speaking
- Exchange experiences and ideas with peers from five different countries
- Discover creative methods for activism and community engagement
- Gain tools to design and implement local awareness actions
- Improve your English communication and intercultural skills
- Receive a Youthpass certificate recognizing your learning and participation
Venue and Travel Arrangements
During the youth exchange, participants will be accommodated in Hotel Tomo in shared rooms. Known for its stunning mix of Art Nouveau architecture, cozy cafés, and creative spaces, Riga is a dynamic city where history meets innovation. The city offers a welcoming atmosphere for young people, with plenty of green spaces, local markets, and cultural hotspots to explore. Whether you’re wandering through the charming Old Town or enjoying the views along the Daugava River, Riga is the perfect backdrop for learning, reflection, and connection with other changemakers from across Europe.
Practical Details
- Travel: Transport from Austria to the venue is supported. Participants are required to plan their travels in advance and upon approval from the hosting organisation Venus Women’s Rights Association book their tickets. Travel expenses are reimbursed after the youth exchange is completed and travel documents are handed over to the host.
- Costs: Travel costs are reimbursed up to 309 EUR. Accommodation, and meals during the program are covered (starting with dinner on 18.4.2025 and last meal is breakfast on 25.4.2025).
- What to bring: Typical Austrian snacks and sweets are welcome for intercultural evening!
The nearest airport is Riga International Airport (RIX), which is located approximately 10 kilometers southwest of the city center. From the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi, ride- sharing services, or public transportation. Bus No. 22 operates between the airport and the city center, providing a cost-effective and efficient way to travel.
Reimbursement Conditions
Please note that travel costs will only be reimbursed after the project ends, and only if:
- Participants submit all original travel documents and receipts
- Full participation in the programme and follow-up phase is respected
- Participants book the most economical travel option and receive approval in advance
Important note: Reimbursement process can take up to 4 months after the youth exchange.
Are you ready to take a stand and inspire change?
Apply now and become part of a powerful international community working for equality and human rights: https://bit.ly/my_eu_project