In September 2023, a unique Erasmus+ training course took place in Yerevan, Armenia, under the title “Youth in Action: Fostering Peacebuilding, Conflict Resolution and Employability Skills.” The project brought together youth workers from different European countries with the goal of strengthening their ability to support young people in facing today’s global challenges. Through learning, sharing, and exchange, the program focused on three important areas: peacebuilding, career readiness, and cross-cultural cooperation. For a youth worker from Bulgaria, representing the NGO International Connection, the experience was not only a professional opportunity, but also a personal turning point in how to connect with youth and build inclusive communities through peacebuilding.
In Bulgaria, many young people face uncertainty and disconnection. Although the country has made progress in areas like education and infrastructure, social challenges remain. In small towns and underrepresented communities, youth often feel ignored and excluded from decision-making. There are also ongoing tensions between ethnic groups, and young people from minority backgrounds sometimes experience prejudice or lack of access to the same opportunities as others. These situations make it difficult for them to imagine a better future or feel empowered to take initiative. Before the training in Armenia, the youth worker noticed growing frustration and silence among young people. Even though some were active online or in social media, they lacked the tools and spaces to communicate openly, resolve conflicts, or work together across cultural lines. This made the themes of the training especially relevant for Bulgaria.
The training in Yerevan opened a new door. From the first day, it was clear that this was not just another workshop. Participants from all over Europe came together in a shared space where cultures, experiences, and values met with respect. The youth worker from Bulgaria found the sessions on non-violent communication and reconciliation particularly eye-opening. These methods showed how simple conversations, when guided with care and attention, could build bridges between people who might not otherwise meet. The group learned techniques for active listening, empathy, and problem-solving. These tools were not only theoretical—they were practiced daily through roleplays, simulations, and discussions about real-life situations.
One of the most inspiring parts of the course was the visit to Armenian NGOs that worked with youth in communities affected by past conflict. These local groups used education, art, and civic engagement to support young people in building peaceful futures. The stories shared by these young Armenians—some of whom had grown up in difficult environments—showed the power of resilience and creativity. It became clear that peacebuilding is not only about stopping violence but also about creating systems where every voice is heard. This message stayed in the heart of the Bulgarian participant. The friendships made during intercultural evenings and informal conversations added another layer of connection. Participants learned from one another not only in the classroom, but also through music, food, dance, and shared dreams.
Returning to Bulgaria, the youth worker felt a strong responsibility to act. The experience in Armenia gave new motivation and fresh ideas. With support from International Connection, a new project called “Peace Lab Sofia” was developed. The aim was to create a space where young people could explore peacebuilding and cultural understanding through workshops, dialogue circles, and creative activities. The project started small, meeting twice a month in a local community center. Each session focused on one theme, such as conflict transformation, teamwork, or cultural identity. Young people from different backgrounds—including Roma youth, students from rural areas, and refugees—joined the sessions. They came not only to learn, but also to share their own stories and find common ground.
The results of “Peace Lab Sofia” began to show quickly. Participants started to feel more confident in expressing themselves. A few took initiative and created small projects in their schools and neighborhoods, such as peer support groups and classroom mediators. Others brought back what they learned to their families, helping younger siblings or friends understand the value of open communication. Local educators also became interested in the project and asked for training so they could use similar methods in schools. One of the sessions attracted the attention of a city council member, who later invited the youth group to present their ideas for improving youth participation in local decisions. This moment showed how much impact one training could have—spreading from an international setting to a community, then growing into a platform for real change.
For the youth worker from Bulgaria, this journey was deeply meaningful. The Erasmus+ training in Yerevan did not only teach new skills, it helped build a new mindset. It showed how peace is not something distant or complicated—it is something that can be built every day, with every conversation, every action, and every young person who believes in it. Working with youth in Sofia and surrounding areas, the message from Armenia remains alive: that even in the face of difficulty, people can choose dialogue, respect, and hope.
Looking ahead, the team at International Connection is now planning to expand “Peace Lab Sofia” to other cities in Bulgaria. They also hope to host their own international training, bringing the methods learned in Yerevan to a new group of youth workers. The goal is to keep creating spaces where young people feel safe, included, and inspired to shape their own futures. Youth today face many challenges, but they also carry the power to create something better.
Through projects like Erasmus+ and the commitment of passionate youth workers, the vision for inclusive and peaceful societies becomes more than a dream. It becomes a daily practice. It becomes real.