Project Number: 2026-1-RO01-KA152-YOU-000392392
Beyond Expectations
Project Partners
The project is implemented by six organisations representing different regions of Europe:
- Fundația Magdalena Deijs – Romania (Coordinator)
- Institute for Youth Initiatives and Innovations (IYII) – Bulgaria
- Youth Waves 4 EU – Greece
- Respirare Sinapsi – Associazione di Promozione Sociale e Culturale – Italy
- Centrum voľného času – Slovakia
- T4G Gençlik Derneği – Türkiye
Programme: Erasmus+ KA152-YOU – Youth Exchange
Implementation Period: 1–9 September 2026
Venue: Venus – Mangalia, Romania
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Project Overview
Beyond Expectations is an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange that brings together young people from six European countries to explore identity, self-confidence and personal development through non-formal education and intercultural learning.
In today’s rapidly changing world, young people often experience pressure from family, peers, social media and society to fit predefined expectations about success, appearance and future careers. This project provides a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where participants can better understand themselves, reflect on their values and aspirations, and develop the confidence to make authentic life choices.
During eight days of interactive learning on the Romanian Black Sea coast, participants will take part in workshops, simulations, outdoor activities, role-playing, creative sessions and intercultural exchanges designed to strengthen emotional intelligence, critical thinking and active participation. The project also promotes inclusion by actively involving young people with fewer opportunities and ensuring equal access to meaningful learning experiences.
Learning outcomes will be recognised through Youthpass Certificates and Open Digital Badges, while participants will continue sharing their experience through local dissemination activities after returning to their communities.
Project Objectives
The project aims to:
- increase young people’s self-awareness and support their personal development;
- strengthen emotional literacy, empathy and critical thinking through experiential learning;
- encourage participants to challenge stereotypes, social expectations and prejudice;
- build self-confidence and empower young people to express their own opinions and make informed life choices;
- promote diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities, with particular attention to young people facing fewer opportunities;
- foster intercultural dialogue, European citizenship and mutual understanding among young people from different countries;
- recognise learning outcomes through Youthpass and innovative digital credentials;
- strengthen long-term cooperation between youth organisations across Europe.
Target Groups
The project involves 31 participants from six countries, including:
- 24 young people aged 16–22;
- 6 group leaders;
- 1 experienced facilitator.
Particular attention is given to the inclusion of young people facing economic, social or geographical barriers, ensuring that everyone can participate equally regardless of their background.
Expected Results
By the end of the project, participants are expected to:
- develop greater self-confidence and emotional resilience;
- improve communication, teamwork and intercultural competences;
- strengthen critical thinking and decision-making skills;
- gain a deeper understanding of diversity, inclusion and European values;
- become more active and engaged members of their local communities;
- receive a Youthpass Certificate and Open Digital Badges recognising the competences acquired during the project;
- organise local dissemination activities to share their learning with other young people.
At organisational level, the project will strengthen cooperation among partner organisations, promote the exchange of good practices in youth work and lay the foundations for future Erasmus+ initiatives supporting youth participation and personal development.
