The Road to the Future with the Project – S.M.I.L.E.

Do you know how the unique project S.M.I.L.E. transformed the approach to youth work in Europe?

This is not just a story about training; it is a real revolution in youth work!

Attention, aspiring entrepreneurs and active workers of youth organizations!

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of the project “S.M.I.L.E. – Support, Mentoring, Inspiration, Training, Interaction.” This is not just a story about training and development; it’s a revolutionary journey that changed the landscape of youth work!

Thanks to ERASMUS+ funding, S.M.I.L.E. organized an online course for 32 participants from 13 European countries, running from July 2023 to September 2023. A practical 6-day seminar followed from September 29 to October 4, opening new opportunities for the participants.

Odyssey of Growth

Imagine a program where learning goes hand in hand with personal transformation. That’s what S.M.I.L.E. was all about. It was a refuge for youth workers to cope with their problems, build resilience, and protect themselves from burnout. Here, growth wasn’t just encouraged; it was inevitable.

Rethinking Coaching

S.M.I.L.E. blazed a new trail by integrating Vedic traditions into coaching. This innovative approach allowed youth workers to become adaptive mentors, building trust and focus in the youth they mentored. It was a unique combination of ancient wisdom and modern coaching techniques.

Mastering Communication and Teamwork

In this chapter, communication wasn’t just a skill; it was an art. The project transformed youth workers into experts, capable of teaching and learning simultaneously. They honed their ability to manage emotions, turning negative experiences into positive outcomes.

Digital Adaptation in Crisis Conditions

As challenges emerged at the global level, S.M.I.L.E. seamlessly moved online, demonstrating adaptability and resilience. This digital transition ensured that youth mentoring could flourish under any circumstances.

Creating European Influence

The ambitious goal of S.M.I.L.E. was to raise standards of youth work across Europe. By enriching the skills and perspectives of youth workers, the project sought to create positive change across the continent by strengthening the connections between youth and their mentors.

Dual Format Learning Experience

The training in S.M.I.L.E. had a two-phase format: 1. An enriched online course that covered topics from Vedic coaching principles to advanced techniques. 2. A dynamic event in Tallinn, which became a melting pot of culture, learning, and practical application.

Feedback Symphony

Participant feedback painted a powerful picture of transformation and growth:

• Skills were honed.

• Cultural boundaries were crossed.

• New practices were introduced.

This journey wasn’t just about learning; it was about evolution.

Spotlight on Inspiration Stories

• Alekh from the Czech Republic shared: “It doesn’t matter how many degrees you have… it’s what a complete person you are.” His story highlights the importance of self-development in youth work.

• Cosmin from Romania noted: “We started a trend… Many in our community became interested in coaching methods.” His experience proves how one project can spark a movement of growth and learning in an entire community.

The Enduring Legacy of S.M.I.L.E.

S.M.I.L.E. was more than just a series of workshops and sessions; it was a catalyst for change. It proved that when youth workers are supported and engaged, they can make a significant impact.

Its legacy? Lives transformed, communities empowered, and a growing willingness to join this revolutionary movement.

Are you ready to change youth work with us?