At the end of May, youth workers and partners from seven European countries came together in Liège for the ACT-YOU study visit, part of a wider Erasmus+ project focused on inclusion and accessibility in youth work.
The week offered time for learning, reflection, and meaningful exchange across different national and cultural contexts. Through workshops, local visits, and informal moments, participants explored how youth work can better support young people with fewer opportunities. Liège’s schools, youth centres, and associations provided inspiring examples of inclusion in action.
In her blog, Selma, who has participated in the Study Visit, shared her personal perspective on the experience.
From 25 to 31 May 2025, Liège welcomed participants from Belgium, Slovenia, Albania, Norway, Romania, and Bulgaria for the ACT-YOU Study Visit – part of an Erasmus+ project focused on inclusive youth work and participation.
Even though I live in Liège, this experience helped me discover new places and meet inspiring people I would not have known otherwise. It was a mix of learning, sharing, and laughter.
We were lucky to have good weather, which allowed us to fully enjoy the programme – especially since most of the activities were visits. We explored several organisations doing meaningful work for inclusion and accessibility. IRHOV, the school for visually impaired youth, showed us how specialised education can support independence. At the Coordination Socio-Culturelle de Sainte Marguerite and La Baraka, a youth space in the neighbourhood, we saw how local initiatives bring young people together. At Compagnons Bâtisseurs and La Lumière, we explored how volunteering and support services can empower individuals.
We also took part in workshops on non-formal education, inclusion strategies, and the Erasmus+ programme’s focus on youth with fewer opportunities. It was interesting to compare how these ideas are put into practice in different countries, and we had plenty of opportunities to exchange best practices with one another.
Our loyal companions Ahmet and Angélique were not just there for the Belgian team, but for everyone. They made people feel welcome and safe at every step.
This week wasn’t just about information. It was about connection. We shared food, conversations, and moments of reflection. We felt the value of being together across countries, languages, and experiences.
It was meaningful, it was fun, and it reminded me how much we all gain when we build projects that truly include everyone.
– Selma Zengin