CROSSCULTURE – Connecting Youth Over Borders is an international youth exchange project supported by the Erasmus+ programme.
The initiative brings together young people from Lithuania, Ukraine, France, and Italy to explore intercultural dialogue, inclusion, and democratic participation through non-formal education.
The project responds to the challenges faced by young people affected by forced migration due to the war in Ukraine. It creates a safe and creative environment where youth can reconnect with their cultural identity, build international friendships, and develop practical skills for peaceful cooperation.
Objectives
- Support social inclusion of young people with refugee or migration experience
- Promote intercultural understanding and European solidarity
- Develop creative leadership and teamwork skills
- Strengthen democratic participation through experiential learning
- Foster long-term international youth cooperation
Activities
The 8-day programme combines creative, reflective, and experiential learning methods:
- Playback Theatre workshops – storytelling and dialogue practices
- LARP simulations – exploring social roles and cooperation
- Cultural evenings & culinary workshops – sharing traditions
- Singing circle & movement practices
- Motanka workshop (Ukrainian traditional craft)
- Reflection sessions & Youthpass certification
The methodology is based on non-formal education, participatory learning, and peer facilitation.
Impact
CROSSCULTURE strengthens young people’s confidence, communication skills, and intercultural competence.
It supports Ukrainian youth in maintaining cultural identity while integrating into European networks.
The project contributes to a culture of hospitality, empathy, and active citizenship across borders.
Partners
- NGO “Power of the Future” (Ukraine)
- DEEP (France)
- L’isola che c’è APS (Italy)
- NUKC “Prosperis” (Lithuania)
Why It Matters
In a fragmented world, youth exchanges become laboratories of trust.
CROSSCULTURE demonstrates how art, play, and dialogue can transform difference into connection and shared responsibility.
