Between 5 and 10 July, the Belgian delegation of participants of “The Big Thing” project flew to Kamnik, Slovenia, to join the participants from Slovenia and Spain for a week of joint transnational training session. “The Big Thing” brings together young persons with disabilities from across Europe on national and transnational training sessions that will form them to start their professional path as trainers.
Kinga, our European Solidarity Corps volunteer who was in Kamnik with the rest of the participants, wrote a blog post detailing this exciting week of learning and bonding.
What a time! I am so glad to be part of an amazing team for “The Big Thing” project. Last week, as a member of the Belgium national team, I participated in the first international training in Kamnik with participants from Slovenia and Spain.
It was a fantastic opportunity to work with inspiring people on team building, communication, and inclusion. Thanks to the various activities and exchange of experiences, I learned a lot about the challenges faced by people with auditory and physical impairments and how to create an accessible and inclusive environment in the learning process.
The first day began with a warm welcome from the host organization, during which the trainers introduced the agenda and logistical details for the program. Following the introductory session, participants engaged in a team-building activity in mixed pairs, held in the nearby green areas. This activity was well-received, as it provided a relaxing environment to break the ice and connect. Since the project involves working with people with different disabilities, each national group focused on identifying accessibility needs and generating suggestions for savoir-vivre with other participants and trainers. This session was particularly insightful, allowing participants to voice their specific requirements and contribute to a more inclusive environment. The final session of the day involved a unique “Ikebana” activity, where participants worked in mixed groups to enhance their communication skills.
On the second day, after the evaluation session, a cooking activity began. Participants were divided into mixed groups to prepare a meal together. This hands-on activity was highly effective in enhancing communication and cooperation skills, as space and resources were limited. We had a lot of fun throughout the day, especially during the coffee break, when we could finally taste our baking. The day concluded with a session dedicated to exploring participants’ personal talents, hobbies, and passions, setting the stage for further sharing and collaboration in the upcoming days.
The third day focused on collecting and cataloging the various talents, hobbies and passions of the participants. The activity transitioned from individual reflections to a plenary discussion, ensuring that everyone’s contributions were acknowledged and considered. The participants then moved into mixed groups to begin designing workshops centered on shared passions. This session was comprehensive, requiring groups to define workshop objectives and identify the skills and competencies to be acquired.
The fourth day was devoted to implementing workshops, and it was my favorite part of the entire training. My group prepared activities related to the language learning process. We appreciated the exchange with Deaf participants because, for most of us, it was the first opportunity to learn about their perspective. I especially enjoyed the improv workshop, where I could try out my acting and comedy skills.
The final day was dedicated to reflection and evaluation of the previous day’s activities. The program concluded with a heartfelt closing activity, where participants shared their wishes for one another. This session was emotional and uplifting, marking the end of an enriching experience and the beginning of new connections and—dare I say it—friendships.
The project broadened my knowledge regarding different disabilities and gave me the opportunity to meet wonderful, inspiring, and fun people. I am really looking forward to the next international training in Spain this fall.
