In November 2024, youth workers from across Europe gathered in Benalmádena, Spain, for the Erasmus+ training course Empowering Youth Workers for Gender Equality and Mental Health Awareness. The project brought together individuals and organizations who are passionate about building inclusive, empathetic, and healthy communities. Representing Change Makers from Hungary, one youth worker joined the program with the hope of finding new ways to connect equality and emotional well-being in youth work. The week-long experience turned into a journey of understanding, collaboration, and personal growth.
The Erasmus+ program has long been known for its ability to connect people from different cultures and backgrounds under shared European values. This particular training focused on two pressing topics in modern society—gender equality and mental health awareness. Both are essential for the empowerment of young people and the creation of fair and caring communities. The project aimed to strengthen youth workers’ ability to challenge stereotypes, support young people’s mental well-being, and integrate equality-based approaches into their professional and personal lives.
The Local Context in Hungary
In Hungary, conversations about gender equality and mental health are often met with hesitation. While awareness of these topics has been growing, stigma and misunderstanding still remain strong. Many people find it difficult to talk openly about mental health, fearing judgment or a lack of understanding. The same is true for gender equality, which can be seen as a sensitive or even controversial issue in some communities.
Before the training, Change Makers had already been working with young people through workshops on leadership and inclusion. During these activities, it became clear that many participants were struggling with emotional stress, self-doubt, and anxiety, often linked to societal expectations around gender roles. Boys were taught to suppress emotions and “stay strong,” while girls often faced pressure to meet social standards of behavior and success. These invisible expectations limited self-expression and contributed to feelings of isolation among young people.
Hungary, like many European countries, is facing a rise in mental health challenges among youth. Schools and local organizations do not always have the tools or professionals to address these issues effectively. It was this gap—between awareness and action—that the participant hoped to bridge by taking part in the Erasmus+ project in Benalmádena.
The Training Experience in Benalmádena
The training course offered a refreshing and interactive approach to learning. Each session encouraged participants to think critically, share personal reflections, and experiment with creative tools for inclusion. From the first day, it became clear that the training was not just about theory but about human connection and empathy.
The workshops used non-formal education methods such as role-playing, storytelling, and group reflection. One of the most powerful activities was an exercise on stereotypes, where participants explored how gender expectations influence daily decisions and emotions. Through these exercises, they realized that gender norms are not fixed—they are learned behaviors that can be changed through awareness and education.
The topic of mental health was addressed with great care and openness. Trainers guided participants through discussions on stress management, emotional intelligence, and burnout prevention. These sessions encouraged participants to reflect on their own mental health as youth workers—a topic that is often overlooked but essential for sustainable work in the social field.
The local context of Spain added another layer of learning. Participants visited community organizations in Benalmádena that focus on youth empowerment and mental health support. One center provided art therapy programs, allowing young people to express their feelings through creativity rather than words. Another local initiative used sport as a method to build self-esteem and teamwork among teenagers. Seeing these projects in action gave the Hungarian participant new ideas for future initiatives back home.
The intercultural environment of the training made it even more impactful. Participants from different countries shared their cultural perspectives on equality and mental health. These exchanges showed that, while the challenges might differ, the need for inclusion, empathy, and understanding is universal. The friendships and connections built during the training reminded everyone that social change is stronger when people collaborate beyond borders.
Post-Project Action in Hungary
After returning to Hungary, the representative of Change Makers felt inspired to turn the learning from Spain into practical action. Together with the NGO’s team, they launched a new initiative called “Safe Space Hungary.” The project was designed to create open and inclusive environments where young people could discuss emotions, equality, and mental health without fear of stigma.
The first step was to organize interactive workshops in schools and youth centers. These sessions focused on emotional awareness, stress management, and gender sensitivity. Using the same non-formal methods from Benalmádena, the workshops encouraged participants to share personal experiences and reflect on how social expectations affect their well-being. The team also trained local youth workers on how to recognize emotional distress and respond with empathy and care.
Another important aspect of “Safe Space Hungary” was peer support. Young volunteers were trained to become “youth listeners,” creating a network of students who could provide emotional support to their peers and guide them toward professional help when needed. The project also collaborated with psychologists and educators to ensure that the approach was both educational and supportive.
Impact on Youth and the Community
The results of “Safe Space Hungary” quickly became visible. Young people began to feel more comfortable expressing emotions and talking about stress, relationships, and identity. In schools where workshops were held, teachers reported that students showed more respect and understanding toward one another. Conversations about mental health became more natural, and discussions about gender equality were met with curiosity rather than resistance.
Youth workers who participated in the training sessions reported feeling more confident when addressing sensitive topics. They learned to balance professionalism with empathy, understanding that supporting young people’s mental health requires patience and open-mindedness. The project also inspired several local organizations to include mental well-being activities in their regular programs.
The community’s response was positive. Parents appreciated that their children were learning about empathy, self-care, and equality in a safe environment. Municipal representatives also expressed interest in extending the project to more schools in the region, recognizing its contribution to a healthier and more respectful youth culture.
For Change Makers, the project became a cornerstone of its mission. It proved that youth work can have a deep and lasting influence when it combines education, emotional support, and social awareness. The organization decided to integrate gender equality and mental health into all future programs, making them permanent priorities in its youth strategy.
Reflection and Future Vision
Looking back, the Empowering Youth Workers for Gender Equality and Mental Health Awareness training in Benalmádena was more than just a professional experience—it was a turning point. It helped participants understand that equality and well-being are not separate topics but two sides of the same goal: to ensure that every young person feels valued and supported.
The participant from Change Makers returned home with a renewed belief that real change starts with small, consistent steps. When youth workers listen, care, and lead by example, they inspire others to do the same. The project reminded everyone involved that mental health and gender equality are essential parts of building an inclusive and peaceful future.
The long-term vision of Change Makers is to continue creating spaces where young people can grow without fear or limitation. The lessons learned in Spain continue to guide their work—reminding them that inclusion begins with empathy, and that every voice, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference.