TRAIN UP: A Week of Learning, Sharing and Growing Together in Latvia

27/10/2026

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From 18–24 October 2026, Rēzekne, Latvia, became a meeting place for learning, cooperation and intercultural exchange during the Erasmus+ training course “TRAIN UP”, organized by the European Association “World-Our Home”.

The project brought together 35 participants from 8 countries: Latvia, Croatia, Italy, Romania, Hungary, Lithuania, Greece and North Macedonia.

Strengthening Youth Work Through Non-Formal Education

The main aim of TRAIN UP was to empower youth workers by strengthening their knowledge, practical skills and competences in non-formal education.

Throughout the week, participants took part in interactive workshops, group activities, discussions and practical learning sessions focused on facilitation skills, effective communication, teamwork and creating safe and inclusive learning environments.

Under the guidance of trainer Marija Driksna, participants explored different methods and tools that can be applied in their daily youth work. They had the opportunity to exchange experiences, share good practices from their countries, learn from one another and discover new approaches to engaging young people in meaningful learning activities.

Learning by Doing and Sharing Experiences

An important part of the training was learning through practice. Participants worked together, explored different facilitation techniques and developed their confidence in planning and leading non-formal education activities.

The international environment encouraged participants to look at youth work from different perspectives, learn from diverse experiences and strengthen their communication and cooperation skills.

Celebrating Intercultural Diversity

Beyond the workshops, TRAIN UP created valuable opportunities to build friendships and strengthen connections between participants from different cultural backgrounds.

The intercultural evening was one of the highlights of the week, offering participants the chance to present their cultures, traditions, and customs. These informal moments helped create a welcoming atmosphere, strengthen group bonds and build connections that can continue beyond the project.

By bringing together youth workers from eight countries, the project contributed to strengthening the quality of youth work and promoting inclusive, engaging and meaningful learning opportunities for young people.

Thank You for Being Part of TRAIN UP!

We would like to thank all participants for their active involvement, openness, creativity and willingness to learn and share. Special thanks go to our trainer, Marija Driksna, for guiding the learning process and to “Zeimuļs” for hosting our team in the East Latvian Creative Service Center “Zeimuls”! And thanks to everyone who contributed to creating such a positive and inspiring atmosphere.

The TRAIN UP journey may have come to an end, but the knowledge, ideas, friendships and inspiration gained will continue to grow and make an impact in youth work across Europe.