Moldova Follow Up

Follow-Up and Future Actions – Moldovan Participants of PEHELLI 4ALL

After returning from the Youth Exchange in Cyprus, Moldovan participants of PEHELLI 4ALL initiated impactful follow-up activities in Chișinău, Soroca, Orhei, and Stăuceni. Through interactive workshops and personal storytelling, they inspired dozens of young people to reflect on peace, well-being, and their role in shaping healthier communities. These activities blended non-formal education tools with deep personal reflection, showcasing how Erasmus+ can spark transformation at both individual and community levels.

The Moldovan team plans to continue promoting Erasmus+ opportunities by organizing regular info sessions in schools and youth centers, collaborating with local NGOs, and creating digital content that highlights the benefits of youth mobility. They also aim to build a national informal network of PEHELLI 4ALL alumni to support peer learning, share practices, and co-develop new youth-led initiatives focused on health, peacebuilding, and civic engagement. Their ongoing commitment ensures that the values of the project—peace, empathy, and healthy living—will take root and grow across Moldova, empowering more young people to engage, express, and evolve.

Follow Up Activity 1

On July 8, at one of the youth centers in the capital, we carried out the local follow-up activity for the project Youth Exchange – Peace and Healthy Lifestyle for All. The event was attended by young people and youth workers.

We began by presenting the non-governmental organization SENSE: who we are, what we do, our mission, and our values. Then we introduced the Erasmus+ programme, but first, we interacted with the participants to find out what they already knew. We discovered that, among those present, only two had heard about Erasmus+ projects, and just one had participated before.

We explained what the Erasmus+ programme offers, its categories, how a youth exchange takes place, what it includes, the benefits it provides, and what the Youthpass certificate is.

Next, we carried out a practical activity: we used a backpack with a buckle-closed flap, on which participants wrote down their fears, worries, concerns, and reservations about the programme.

We brought the discussion to life by sharing our own experience from this youth exchange: creative activities, self-discovery and reflection exercises, sports activities. We shared impressions and highlighted the joy of representing our country in an international and culturally diverse context. In turn, we discovered traditions, songs, dances, costumes, and customs from other countries, and we tasted their traditional dishes.

We answered the participants' questions regarding possible obstacles, fears, and concerns. After that, we returned to the backpack and invited them to erase, with a marker, those fears and reservations that had been dispelled through our presentations and answers. In their place, we asked them to write down the expectations they have from an Erasmus+ project.

We concluded the activity with a reflection session called Circle of Trust. All participants sat in a circle, held hands, closed their eyes, and took deep breaths to distance themselves from everyday thoughts. Each participant then shared one word that expressed their current state. The answers included: knowledge, experience, inspiration, joy, interest, curiosity, and motivation.

We opened our eyes, applauded each other in gratitude, and ended the session. The words shared by the participants reflect that our activity brought a positive change to their lives: more information, greater confidence, new knowledge, and opportunities for the future.

Follow Up Activity 2, Information Session: Opportunities for a healthy lifestyle, energy, and peace

Facilitator: Victoria Voica, Cristian-Vasile Digori, Irina Rachieru

Date: July 2nd , 2025
Location: Youth Friendly Health Center (Youth Clinic), Orhei

As a follow-up to the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange "Peace and Healthy Lifestyle for All (PEHELI 4ALL)" held in Cyprus, the participant organized a local information session to disseminate key learnings and create meaningful conversations around healthy lifestyles, personal energy, and peace-building. This session aimed not only to share experiences but also to inspire action and reflection among youth and community members in Orhei.

Promoted via a Facebook event, the session attracted 11 participants (8 females and 3 males), who actively engaged in both the educational and experiential parts of the event.

Agenda

Overview of the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange: PEHELI 4ALL

Interactive Workshop 1: How do you see peace? – using modeling clay. Energizers to boost attention and engagement. 

Interactive Workshop 2: Reflecting on your timeline – personal journeys to health and peace Q&A Session about Erasmus+ opportunities and community involvement. Each activity was designed with purpose and care to promote engagement, self-reflection, and dialogue, while emphasizing non-formal education as a tool for change.

Key activities and their impact

a) Introducing Erasmus+ and SENSE NGO: The presentation of SENSE Association helped participants understand how NGOs can create meaningful change through youth work. Sharing the goals and methodology of the PEHELI 4ALL Youth Exchange provided context and credibility, reinforcing the idea that international exchanges lead to personal growth and expanded worldviews.

b) Energizer: "Head, shoulders, knees, bottle": Facilitated by Victoria, this activity served both as a fun moment and as an exercise in focus, agility, and coordination. It energized the group and helped participants become more comfortable with each other.

c) Workshop: What does peace look like?: Led by Irina, this hands-on workshop used modeling clay as a medium for self-expression. With calming music in the background, participants translated their inner sense of peace into visual forms. At the end, they shared their creations, leading to heartfelt discussions about what peace means personally and socially. This moment created a shared emotional connection among participants, nurturing empathy and mutual respect.

d) Energizer: "Hi-Ha-Ho": A playful yet strategic game facilitated by Victoria. It reinforced the group's energy and attentiveness, reminding everyone that learning can also be joyful.

e) Workshop: My life timeline: Cristian guided participants in reflecting on key life events that shaped their journey toward peace and a healthy lifestyle. This introspective activity sparked deep reflection and dialogue about the choices we make daily and their cumulative impact on our well-being. Many committed to continue working on their timelines at home, recognizing it as a powerful tool for self-awareness and growth.

Importance and meaning of the activity

Participants were deeply involved, with many sharing personal stories and insights. They appreciated the balance between discussion, creativity, and movement. The safe, inclusive atmosphere encouraged openness and trust. By the end, even though a few had to leave, those who remained took part in a group photo, capturing the spirit of learning and connection that the session fostered. 

This dissemination activity demonstrated the power of youth-led initiatives to inspire community change. By bringing global learning into a local context, the facilitators empowered participants to see themselves as active agents of peace and well-being.

Moreover, using non-formal education methods helped break down barriers, encouraged self-reflection, and fostered interpersonal connections. The session not only spread information but created a space for transformation — emotionally, intellectually, and socially.

Follow Up Activity 3: Information Session: Erasmus+ Pehelli 4All – On Peace and Youth Opportunities

Facilitator: Dimicenco Victor

Date: June 22nd , 2025
Location: Classroom provided by the local high school "Dragoș-Vodă"

This follow-up activity was organized as part of the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange "Peace and Healthy Lifestyle for All (PEHELLI 4ALL)" held in Cyprus. The goal of the session was to share personal experiences from the project, promote the core messages about peace and a balanced lifestyle, and encourage young people to get involved in international opportunities like Erasmus+.

It was promoted through posts on social media and other local networks, in result activity gathered 14 youths

Agenda

  • The SENSE Organization – Mission and Values

I introduced the NGO SENSE, the sending organization for the project, explaining its work in promoting peace, healthy lifestyles, and youth empowerment through non-formal education.

  • What Is a Youth Exchange – Erasmus+

I presented the concept of a Youth Exchange within the Erasmus+ program — what it involves, who can participate, and how it benefits young people both personally and professionally.

  • My Experience in the Erasmus+ Project PEHELLI 4ALL

I shared my own journey during the project in Cyprus, highlighting the intercultural exchanges, learning experiences, and personal growth moments I encountered throughout the exchange.

  • Why I Encourage Everyone to Apply for an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange

I concluded by encouraging all young people to explore Erasmus+ opportunities. These projects are inclusive, educational, and transformative. I emphasized that anyone can benefit, regardless of previous experience.

Each activity was designed with purpose and care to promote engagement, self-reflection, and dialogue, while emphasizing non-formal education as a tool for change.

Key activities and their impact

To open the session in an engaging and lighthearted way, we started with an energizer called "Medusa" — a simple yet effective non-formal game that helped participants relax, connect, and prepare for the activities ahead. This game set a positive tone for the meeting and encouraged laughter and interaction.

After the energizer, we reviewed the agenda in an informal and participatory manner. Rather than presenting it in a rigid format, I introduced each topic in an open discussion style, encouraging questions and comments from the participants. This approach created a relaxed atmosphere and allowed everyone to feel included and heard.

Importance and meaning of the activity

The session created space for discussion, curiosity, and reflection. Beyond presenting the Erasmus+ program, I emphasized the importance of peace in our daily lives — both inner peace and peaceful coexistence within the community. Participants left the session feeling more informed, inspired, and motivated to explore similar opportunities for themselves

By using personal storytelling and non-formal learning methods, I was able to inspire young people to believe in themselves, seek personal growth, and value peace. Erasmus+ is not just about travel; it's about transformation — and this session helped plant the seeds for it here in Stăuceni.

Follow Up Activity 4: Information Session: Opportunities for a healthy lifestyle, energy, and peace

Facilitator: Ciobanu Alexandru

Date: July 7th , 2025
Location: Regional Youth Council from Soroca

This follow-up activity was organized within the Erasmus+ youth exchange project "Peace and Healthy Lifestyle for All (PEHELLI 4ALL)," held in Cyprus. The goal of the meeting was to share personal experiences from the project, to convey key ideas about harmony and a healthy lifestyle, and to motivate young people to actively engage in international initiatives such as the Erasmus+ programme.

The activity was promoted through social media posts and other local channels, and was attended by 10 young people.

Agenda

  • General presentation of the Erasmus+ youth exchange: PEHELI 4ALL
  • Interactive Workshop 1: What is a Youth Exchange – Erasmus+
  • Interactive Workshop 2: My Life Timeline – Personal Reflections on Health and Peace
  • Q&A Session on Erasmus+ Opportunities and Civic Engagement

All activities were carefully designed to encourage direct involvement, individual introspection, and open communication, highlighting the role of non-formal education as an effective tool for change and development.

Key Activities and Their Impact

a) Presentation of Erasmus+ and SENSE Association

Presenting the work of the SENSE Association helped participants understand the importance of youth organizations in fostering social transformation. Clarifying the project goals and implementation methods of PEHELLI 4ALL provided both a framework and motivation, showing how international experiences support personal growth and openness to new perspectives.

b) What is a Youth Exchange – Erasmus+

I presented the idea of youth mobility within the Erasmus+ programme — what this type of project involves, who is eligible to participate, and how it supports personal progress and professional development.

c) My Experience in the Erasmus+ PEHELLI 4ALL Project

I shared my own experiences during the mobility activity in Cyprus, highlighting valuable learning moments, authentic connections with young people from different cultures, and the positive impact the experience had on my self-esteem, flexibility, and openness to diversity. This educational journey helped me broaden my personal horizon and better take advantage of international opportunities.

d) Workshop: My Life Timeline

Participants were encouraged to reflect on key moments that shaped their path toward inner balance and a harmonious lifestyle. The exercise prompted honest introspection, helping them become more aware of their daily choices and their impact on well-being. Through guided questions and idea-sharing, the activity created a safe space for self-analysis and personal expression. Many participants expressed a desire to continue this practice in their daily lives, recognizing its contribution to personal development and clearer life priorities.

e) Why I Encourage All Young People to Apply for an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange

The session ended with a call for active involvement, motivating young people to explore the valuable opportunities offered by the Erasmus+ programme. These projects are accessible, educational, and have a significant impact on both personal and professional development. I emphasized that such experiences are available to everyone, regardless of prior experience or background. Each moment of the activity was thoughtfully designed to stimulate participation, critical thinking, and open communication, promoting non-formal education as an essential tool for personal and social transformation.

Importance of the Activity

The session held in Soroca provided a favorable environment for dialogue, curiosity, and deep reflection. Beyond providing information about the Erasmus+ programme, we emphasized the importance of peace in daily life — both internally and in harmonious community relationships. Participants left better informed, more confident, and more motivated to seek and take advantage of international opportunities. By sharing my personal experience and using non-formal education methods, I managed to inspire young people to believe in their potential, aim for personal development, and view peace as a value that can be nurtured daily. Erasmus+ is not just about mobility and discovering new cultures, but also about a profound shift in mindset — and this session planted the seeds of that change right here in Soroca.

Dissemination Links for online promotion of the project 

Evaluation Paragraphs from Participants 

Irina Rachieru

This youth exchange was incredibly well-organized, offering a perfect balance between structured learning, personal development, and intercultural exchange. From day one, the facilitators created a safe, inclusive, and engaging space that encouraged us to explore important topics such as inner peace, emotional well-being, healthy lifestyles, and cultural awareness. Each session, whether it was through creative arts, outdoor exploration, emotional reflection, or playful energizers, felt meaningful and carefully curated.

One of the greatest strengths of the activity was the variety of methods used: from SMART goal-setting and emotional mapping to theater, yoga, yoga, journaling, and blindfold painting, we were constantly invited to step out of our comfort zones in a supportive way.

The intercultural evenings and team-led energizers strengthened group cohesion and made learning fun. The added value of this project lies in how it helped us grow emotionally, physically, and socially, while also fostering a sense of unity across cultures. If I were to suggest one improvement, it would be to allow a bit more downtime for reflection between intense sessions. Overall, I deeply appreciated the energy, creativity, and care that went into every part of the experience, it was truly transformative!

Voica Victoria

When I left for Cyprus to join the youth exchange "Peace and Healthy Lifestyle for All", I didn't know exactly what to expect. I wanted to learn something new, meet people from other countries, and step out of my daily routine. But the experience was much deeper than I imagined.

From the first day, I felt like I was in a safe and friendly space. The activities were carefully planned, with meaning and balance – between learning, reflection, movement, and creativity.

We practiced yoga, painted with our eyes closed, wrote in journals, laughed, stayed quiet, and listened. We explored our emotions, our limits, and the desire to live more consciously and in balance.

For me, it was a moment of reconnection. I allowed myself to slow down, breathe differently, and be truly present. I realized that I don't need to have all the answers – I just need to be willing to search, with patience and openness.

This experience felt like a breath of fresh air – it brought me clarity, peace, and the courage to stay close to myself, no matter the context.

Dimicenco Victor

My first Erasmus+ project has truly changed my daily perspective.

It inspired me, taught me valuable lessons, and helped me build meaningful new connections. From the very beginning, I felt the strong sense of responsibility shown by the host organization in Cyprus, Acpelia, who made sure everything ran smoothly.

I was also lucky to be part of a very united national team.

The topics explored during the sessions — such as inner peace, conflict management, and healthy living — helped me strengthen my connection with myself. The way these sessions were delivered felt incredibly human and engaging, which allowed us to dive deep into the themes.

From yoga and hiking to forum theatre, everything was part of a truly transformative process.

Marina Conovca

Sometimes, the greatest things happen when least expected.

I joined the Moldavian Team one month before the departure to Cyprus, and never have I ever had no idea what to expect from this project. Nevertheless, the experience was as meaningful as it could be.

From the first step in Cyprus, I could feel the warmth of the hosting organization, Acpelia (and of the sun), that welcomed us on the path towards a peaceful and healthy lifestyle. The facilitators were lovely, constantly helping the participants enjoy the process and understand the topics. The wide range of team building and activities helped us, the youth, be engaged with the present and be fresh for each new topic. From art to physical exercise, we've experienced it all.

It was a breath of fresh air, as I am living quite a busy life. Yet, most of all, I felt safe and connected, wanting to experience this again more than ever.

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