Erina:

 This project was also a personal challenge for me. During the creative activities, I was asked to participate in games and share my ideas. At first, I was very shy, but step by step, I had some confidence. I saw that people listened to me and respected me. That gave me courage, and it made me feel stronger. From this project, I take home several results. First, even if my English is still not very good, I improved a little and, more importantly, I am not afraid anymore to speak. Second, I built friendships with people from other countries, and even if we don’t speak the same language perfectly, we still manage to connect. And finally, I came back with the wish to continue with Erasmus+, to travel more, and to learn more. Looking back, “Get Together” was more than a project. It was a first step into something bigger: discovering cultures, making friends, and growing as a person. For me, it was the beginning of a journey, and I am grateful for the chance to be part of it.

Nolan:

I experienced what it really means to be together. Sharing meals, sitting in circles in nature, talking, laughing, and listening to people from different countries showed me how important inclusion and respect are. Even without speaking the same language, I felt welcomed. “Get Together” was more than just an exchange for me it was the first step in opening up to the world, pushing myself further, and realizing that growth starts when you leave your comfort zone.

Logan:

One photo I keep close to my heart illustrates this perfectly: several hands placed together on a paper where the word “together” was written. Simple but powerful. That word summarizes everything 

I experienced. No matter the color of our skin, our name, our country of origin, or our religion—we were together, equal, united. This exchange taught me never to underestimate the power of mutual respect. Each of us has an identity, a story, a culture that deserves to be heard and valued. Being inclusive is not just about tolerating others, it is about sincerely accepting and welcoming them, with all their differences.

Sophie:

Honestly, a week-long exchange was just right for my first experience. But when I got home, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia (like everyone else, I suppose). I received several heart-warming notes from the other participants in the envelope that had been stuck to the door on the last day. I think we need to take the time to regularly reflect on these good memories with gratitude in order to apply the lessons learned and embody the values promoted in our daily lives. I also realized how unfortunate it is to lack self-confidence as a young person when we have so much potential. Everyone has something to offer and our voices matter.

I would like to thank the facilitators and the other participants, my sending organization Bokra Sawa, Erasmus+ and the Italian National Agency who co-founded this project and the association I CARE who hosted it.