“Crafted Stories” was a project where you didn’t just get together with others to write, it was a time when you really looked people in the eye to share a meaningful message. This experience helped us put down our screens and take a little time off. During those six days, we had the opportunity to disconnect from the noise and grabbed a pen to reflect and explore creative writing alongside supportive people and an inspiring environment. This project brought together people from four different countries to learn tools for self-expression and create something that wouldn’t just disappear into the depths of the internet.
“If you were to ask me about the expectations I had going into this project, I’d have to admit I don’t really have an answer. Over the years, I’ve discovered that when we don’t set expectations and are open to new challenges, incredibly beautiful things happen. Throughout the entire project, I found it fascinating to observe how different the people who came together were, but at the same time, how similar we all were. During our time there, we were able to challenge ourselves both in writing and in developing our presentation skills, and I found ourselves enormously inspired by our group’s courage. I really enjoyed how flexible our schedule was, and through that, we immediately created a sense of family and community.
I feel that my ability to see and notice people and their differences has definitely grown. I learned that self-expression is totally free and that you can create and write in various forms. One thing that was definitely important to me was having the right, supportive people and situations that bring out our creative, inspiring, and courageous selves. I would like to find opportunities in the future to meet more people like this and continue putting my thoughts into poetic form.
Throughout the entire project, we shared so many beautiful moments together that it’s hard to pick just one. I definitely want to highlight the Estonian cultural evening, because even though we’d had a very long and tiring day, our energy in the kitchen clicked perfectly, and we supported one another. Another moment I’d like to highlight was the last night, when one of the participants led an ecstatic dance. I loved seeing how all the participants let themselves go completely and enjoyed the music and its effect on their bodies. I’m so glad I took part in this project, and I’m grateful that I was given this opportunity.“
Krete Saluste
“When I found this project, I was fascinated by its goals and the ideas it offered to the participants. I had wanted to write my own story for a long time, but I had always found excuses not to do it. However, when we arrived at Das Nest, I felt that I had come to the right place, with a great environment for creativity and bringing my craziest ideas to life.
I had the opportunity to hear other people’s stories, share my own stories with them, and learn something new. I especially enjoyed our writing session, when I could spend time on my own and reflect on what really matters to me. It was a productive week, and I can say that I achieved a good result in the end. I can say that I am very proud of my work. I am grateful to the organizers for giving us the opportunity to go to the city and present our own stories on stage. I feel that this project had a meaningful ending with a tangible outcome.
During those six days, we became like one big family with participants from all over the world. I think many things would not have happened without the people who were there. We had an amazing group of creative people who were ready to face challenges and were not afraid to be open-minded.
This project was not only about developing physical and technical skills, but also about self-discovery and reflection. I feel satisfied with this experience, and I believe I have improved my soft skills.”
Daria Demidova
“Before the youth exchange I expected to meet new people, take time off, get away from my daily thoughts, and reflect on myself: what do I want to do with my life? Those expectations definitely got fulfilled, because I truly got time to think about me. I saw so many different people on the youth exchange and all of them were so courageously and truly themselves. This gave me so much inspiration to just follow my own desires and beliefs.
I feel like the project gave me a sense of freedom and ability to deeply reflect, which is absolutely great. I feel like I emotionally grew to become an accepting person, and I plan on continuing doing so.
I’ll definitely remember forever the special last night of the project. It was also San Juan night, so the organizer made us the traditional Galicia witch-expelling ritual. Besides that, saying goodbye and really feeling the connections we had made during those six days. And I won’t forget the Italian wedding we had on Italian cultural night.”
Hanna Loora Pulst
“When I stumbled upon the call of participants for this project, I wasn’t looking for any youth exchanges to join, as my June looked quite busy already. However, after reading the infopack, I was mesmerized. From the start this project seemed well thought out and more personal than many I’ve seen before. I’m glad to report this turned out to be true, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity!
My favourite part was definitely creating together with other participants. People were not only crafting for the fanzines, our final project, but also during free time. It was really common to have little groups sitting outside, just painting and chatting during breaks. With only 20 participants in total, the atmosphere felt really cozy and comfortable.
I’m now inspired to further explore the form of fanzine. Although I had heard and created some before, seeing and hearing all the ideas from other participants made it even more alluring! It’s such a nice way to express yourself through combining different art forms. And the feeling of finally completing something and holding it in your hand is almost addicting. So addicting I’m tempted to call my friends and have a small crafting session together!”
Kirke Relve
Before the youth exchange, I expected to meet new people and have a good time. The most interesting part for me was communicating with participants from different cultures. It was great to hear their stories, exchange ideas, and work together during the activities.
One moment I will always remember is spending time together in the evenings, talking, laughing, and getting to know everyone better. Overall, this youth exchange was a valuable experience. I am grateful for the opportunity and would definitely recommend it to others.”
Luka Mark Reppo