The Erasmus+ training course “Wellness Beyond Stereotypes,” held in Cefalù, Sicily, in June 2023, was a powerful and timely project for youth workers from across Europe. It focused on the deep connection between physical and mental wellness, social inclusion, and the impact of stereotypes. Participants explored how health education, physical activity, and sport can be used not only to promote healthier lifestyles, but also to create a more inclusive society where young people can express themselves freely and grow with confidence. In a world where sedentary habits, malnutrition, exclusion, and rising discrimination continue to impact youth, this training offered new tools and strategies to act locally with a global mindset. The experience became a moment of reflection, learning, and inspiration for all participants.
For the Italian youth worker from Associazione Progetto Europa, the training came at an important time. In May 2023, many social issues were affecting youth in Italy. In smaller towns and rural areas, young people were increasingly disconnected from community life. Digital addiction and sedentary lifestyles were making both physical and mental health worse. Many youth were experiencing anxiety, low energy, and lack of motivation. At the same time, stereotypes about gender, ethnicity, and body image were visible in schools, sports clubs, and online spaces. Some young people were afraid to take part in sports because of bullying or fear of judgment. Others felt isolated due to language barriers or economic problems. Youth from migrant backgrounds or with disabilities often faced exclusion. Even though Italy had several national campaigns promoting sport and wellness, many of them did not reach those most in need. Youth workers often wanted to help but did not always know how to connect wellness with inclusion and diversity.
The training in Cefalù changed that. From the first day, the atmosphere was welcoming and inclusive. The sessions were interactive, combining knowledge about health and sport with real-life experiences. One activity asked participants to reflect on their own eating habits and how food traditions shape identity. Another session focused on movement and physical expression, where youth workers explored how different bodies move, feel, and communicate. For many, this was the first time they talked about nutrition and exercise in connection with self-image, stereotypes, and cultural expectations. The training also included open discussions about how sport can include or exclude. Participants shared stories of discrimination in schools and teams, but also how inclusive practices—like using cooperative games or adapting rules—can make every young person feel welcome. These lessons were deepened by the international exchange. Listening to stories from Greece, Germany, and North Macedonia helped the Italian youth worker see new ideas and similarities across borders. A strong message appeared: health and inclusion are not separate—they support each other.
Inspired by the training, the Italian youth worker returned home and proposed a local project called “Wellness Is for Everyone.” The project aimed to bring inclusive wellness education to high schools in the region of Campania. Working with Associazione Progetto Europa, the youth worker designed a six-week workshop cycle for students aged 13–17. Each week had a different focus, such as “Healthy Eating Without Shame,” “Movement for All Bodies,” or “Myths About Masculinity and Sport.” The workshops combined group conversations, simple movement games, and small reflection tasks. A nutritionist from the community was invited to speak in a way that young people could understand. A local coach trained in inclusive fitness also led some outdoor sessions, where students explored physical activity not as competition, but as joyful movement and connection.
The response from the youth was very positive. Many students said they had never talked about wellness in such a personal and open way. Some shared how they were tired of being told to “eat better” or “exercise more” without understanding why or how. Others explained how they felt shy in sport class because of their weight, gender identity, or background. The project created a space where students could ask questions, learn new things, and support each other. Teachers also noticed changes. Some students began eating breakfast before school for the first time. Others started walking to school with classmates as a small way to stay active. In one school, a group of girls asked to start a weekly dance break during break time, which the school accepted. A student council even created a mini campaign to spread messages about healthy living and self-acceptance.
The project also had an impact beyond the classroom. After seeing the success of the workshops, the local municipality asked the youth worker to present the results at a youth health forum. As a result, more schools showed interest in adopting the model. A local parent group invited the youth worker to speak at a community center about how families can support healthier habits without pressure or shame. The project was shared online, and a few organizations in other cities contacted Associazione Progetto Europa to ask for support in starting similar initiatives. The experience showed that with the right methods, even small efforts can grow and connect people who care.
The youth worker also noticed personal growth. The training in Cefalù had helped build confidence in using creative and emotional methods, something that now became central to daily work. The support from the international group continued after the project through messages, video calls, and shared resources. Knowing that others in different countries were also taking steps to fight stereotypes through sport and wellness was encouraging. It felt like being part of a quiet but strong movement.
Looking into the future, Associazione Progetto Europa plans to turn “Wellness Is for Everyone” into an annual program. They hope to train more volunteers, including young people, to become peer educators. The goal is to not only run workshops, but also create a youth-led podcast about health, identity, and daily life. There are also ideas to build an outdoor wellness trail near the school where students can do short exercises, walk, or relax during breaks. The long-term plan is to link wellness education with civic engagement, helping youth understand their rights to health, inclusion, and dignity.
This journey reminded everyone involved that change starts with small, human steps. One conversation, one workshop, one walk to school can start a bigger shift. Youth have the power to question norms, speak about their experiences, and support each other in building new habits. They do not need to be perfect or strong—they just need space, respect, and real support. Projects like “Wellness Beyond Stereotypes” show that youth work is not only about fixing problems—it is about building something better together. In Italy and across Europe, young people are ready to move forward, breathe deeper, and live well—without stereotypes holding them back.