From July 6th to 19th, 2022, KRASS e.V. organized the "Slo Mo Island Future Workshop" at the Mesa Vrysi adventure and recreation resort on the Greek island of Lefkada. All costs, including flights, were fully covered by KRASS e.V..
Nestled within a breathtaking nature reserve on the west coast of Greece, the young people were able to unwind, leave their everyday lives behind, and recharge their batteries. Sun, sea, and nature provided the perfect setting for a creative and inspiring time far removed from the pressures of school and the digital overload.
Restart after the pandemic
After months of contact restrictions and social isolation, the workshop offered the young people a much-needed opportunity to experience community again. Many had suffered from the distance and lost what young people need most: closeness, exchange, and genuine encounters.
In Greece, they were able to breathe freely, laugh, forge friendships, and rediscover the joy of shared experiences. Traveling, working, and celebrating together boosted their self-confidence and helped them overcome the psychological effects of the pandemic.
Community and creativity
Fifteen young people aged between 16 and 19 participated in the workshop. They wanted to make a difference together, be creative, and take responsibility for one another. A strong sense of community quickly developed in the relaxed atmosphere of Mesa Vrysi. The young people cooked together, made music, talked about the future, friendship, and sustainability – and simply enjoyed each other's company.
The workshop fostered team spirit, mutual respect, and initiative. Everyone contributed their own ideas and experienced firsthand that collaboration and consideration are crucial for achieving common goals.
Cultural encounters and new perspectives
A particular focus of the project in Greece was intercultural learning. Through their stay in Greece and contact with local people, the young people gained valuable insights into other ways of life, cultures, and ways of thinking. They learned how enriching it is to understand differences and discover commonalities.
Such experiences are of great importance for young people. They broaden their horizons, promote tolerance, and strengthen their personalities. Traveling to other cultures helps children and teenagers to break down prejudices, develop empathy, and understand themselves as part of a diverse, global community.
An unforgettable experience
The “Slo Mo Island Future Workshop” was an intense and formative experience for all participants. Besides relaxation, fun, and cultural exchange, one thing was paramount: the personal development of each individual.
The participants returned with new ideas, boosted self-confidence, and lasting friendships. For many, the trip was an important step out of pandemic isolation – towards openness, optimism, and joy of life.
The project was funded by AUFleben – Zukunft ist jetzt (Aufleben – Future is now).
Period: 06.07 to 19.07.2022 May XNUMX
AUF!leben – The future is now. is a program of the German Children and Youth Foundation, funded by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth. The program is part of the Federal Government's "Catching Up After Corona" action program.