Our Journey to “First Step First” – A Transformative Experience in Erasmus+
When we, as members of Asociația Nuclee, first heard about the “First Step First” seminar, we knew it was a chance to explore the endless possibilities Erasmus+ offers. As a relatively young organization based in Caracal, Romania, we’ve always been passionate about creating opportunities and fostering sustainable progress. Yet, navigating the complexities of Erasmus+ felt like an intimidating challenge. That’s why this TCA for newcomers felt like the perfect first step for us.
In September, we found ourselves in the vibrant city of Palermo, Italy, surrounded by other organisations from across Europe. From the moment we stepped into the seminar venue, the energy was palpable. The room was filled with people like us – enthusiastic but slightly apprehensive about where to begin their Erasmus+ journeys. The theme of inclusion and collaboration resonated deeply with us, reflecting our own mission to empower young people and strengthen communities.
Day One: Inspiration Takes Root
The first day set the tone for the days to come. Sicilian educational institutions shared their inspiring work in inclusion, showcasing projects that bridged cultural divides and provided opportunities for marginalized groups. Hearing their stories, we couldn’t help but think of the parallels to our own community in Caracal. These examples fueled our confidence – we realized that despite our limited experience with Erasmus+, we had the vision and passion to create meaningful projects.
Exploring Themes That Matter
Over the next few days, we delved into thematic workshops that brought us closer to the core of Erasmus+ opportunities. Each session felt like peeling back the layers of a complex yet beautiful program. The themes of social inclusion, civic engagement, and digital skills in inclusive learning weren’t just abstract ideas; they were actionable paths that aligned perfectly with our work back home.
The workshop on KA122: Short-term mobility projects gave us clarity on how we could provide transformative experiences for young people and educators in our region. Meanwhile, the focus on KA210: Small-scale partnerships inspired us to think about the partnerships we could form to amplify our impact. These sessions weren’t just theoretical—they were practical, hands-on, and collaborative.
Collaboration and Creativity
As the days unfolded, we worked closely with participants from other countries, brainstorming project ideas and sharing best practices. These weren’t just professional exchanges; they were personal connections that reminded us of the power of collaboration. In one breakout session, we connected with a team from Spain who shared insights into how they addressed challenges in digital education. Their approach sparked an idea we could adapt for our own initiatives in Caracal.
Building the Future Together
By the end of the seminar, we had not only developed a clearer understanding of Erasmus+ but also mapped out concrete ideas for projects we wanted to pursue. The facilitators guided us through drafting project outlines, identifying potential partners, and aligning our ideas with the program’s priorities. We left Palermo with renewed confidence and the beginnings of what could be transformative projects for our community.
Reflecting on the Experience
Looking back, “First Step First” wasn’t just a seminar—it was a turning point for Asociația Nuclee. It reminded us that even as newcomers, we have the potential to create impactful projects that resonate with Erasmus+ priorities. The connections we made and the ideas we developed will undoubtedly shape the future of our organization.
We returned to Caracal with more than just knowledge; we brought back inspiration, partnerships, and a renewed commitment to making a difference. As we draft our first Erasmus+ project proposals, we carry the lessons and memories from Palermo with us, knowing that this is just the beginning.
For organizations like ours, seminars like “First Step First” is more than a training opportunity – it’s a lifeline, a beacon for those venturing into the vast and impactful world of Erasmus+. We’re grateful to have been part of this journey and are excited to see how our first steps evolve into long strides toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
