“Working to Seas More Opportunities” in Turkey

From 18th to 29th of November 2024 , I had the opportunity to be part of the youth exchange titled “Working to seas more opportunities”, which took place in Alanya, Turkey, supported by the Erasmus+ program.

 It was an incredible experience for all of us taking part in it, including the participants, the facilitators and the organizing team.

Eleven days full of joy, productivity, learning opportunities and broadening our horizons. Being in a project with 60 other participants from 6 different countries really showed me that we are all not so different and that we can still find ways to connect and love each other, have amazing experiences all together and embrace all our differences while also promoting our culture. We were all taught about the fishing communities, economy and difficulties that deeply concern all the Mediterranean countries but also got the chance to increase and promote our creativity and our leadership skills.

 We all had the chance to be part of diverse teams, work together and find the unity in this diversity while at the same time learning how to strengthen our own skills and bonds with each other.

 The facility, the accommodation and the food were all very organized and the place had an incredible beauty.

All in all it was an amazing experience with awesome people and memories that will never leave our heart.

ΕΥΜΟΡΦΙΛΗ Ξενίδου

From November 18th to 29th, I had the chance to be part of “Working to Seas More Opportunities,” a youth exchange in Alanya, Turkey, supported by Erasmus+. 

For 11 unforgettable days, 60 participants from six different countries came together to learn, share, and grow through collaboration and cultural exchange.

The program gave us the opportunity to dive into the challenges faced by Mediterranean fishing communities, exploring economic and environmental issues while sharpening our creativity, leadership, and teamwork skills. Working in diverse groups was a highlight—it showed us how, despite our differences, we can connect, support one another, and share unique perspectives.

Everything about the experience was thoughtfully organized. The facilities were excellent, the accommodations comfortable, and the meals delicious. Alanya’s breathtaking scenery added even more magic to the experience.

But this project was about more than just learning. It was about creating bonds that transcend borders, celebrating diversity, and growing together. The connections we made and the lessons we learned will stay with us for a lifetime.

Elisavet Stougiannou

From November 18 to 29, I joined a youth exchange program in Alanya, Turkey, called “Working to Seas More Opportunities.” It was funded by Erasmus+. Sixty people from six countries came together for 11 days to learn, work, and share ideas.

We talked about problems faced by Mediterranean fishing communities and practiced skills like creativity, leadership, and teamwork. Working with people from different backgrounds taught us how to connect and see things from new perspectives. The program was well-organized, and the accommodations, facilities, and meals were great. The beautiful views in Alanya made the experience even better.

This program wasn’t just about learning. It was also about building friendships, appreciating diversity, and growing together. The period of the program was short, but the memories and lessons will stay with us forever.

Alexandros Kyriakou

From November 18 to 29, I had the chance to take part in the Erasmus+ youth exchange program “Working to Seas More Opportunities” in Alanya, Turkey. Over the course of 11 days, young people from six countries came together to learn about the fishing economy and how it connects to sustainability and job opportunities.

The program wasn’t just about education—it was about collaboration and cultural exchange. We worked on group activities, explored new perspectives, and had discussions that opened our minds. It was incredible to see how quickly friendships were formed, and the energy of the group made every moment unforgettable. This experience left us with valuable lessons and connections that will last a lifetime. 

Eleni Tsikritsaki

From November 18 to November 29, I had the chance to join an Erasmus+ program in Alanya, Turkey, and it was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Every single day felt like a new opportunity to learn something meaningful, not just about the topics we discussed but also about myself and others. I met so many amazing people with unique personalities, and I was inspired by their stories and cultures. I made friendships that I truly value and will carry with me for a long time.One of the most important things we learned was about the fishing and marine economy. 

We talked about how these industries work and the problems they face. It made me realize how important it is to protect the environment and support sustainable fishing. I feel like my awareness has grown so much, and I’m now more inspired to take care of our planet in any way I can.
What made the experience even more special were the creative and fun games we played. These games weren’t just for entertainment—they helped us communicate better, connect with each other, and even use our imagination in new ways. Every activity brought us closer together and made me appreciate the power of teamwork and creativity.

Looking back, this program wasn’t just about learning; it was about growing, connecting, and being inspired. I feel so grateful for the chance to be part of something so meaningful, and I’ll always remember the people I met and the lessons I learned. This experience will stay in my heart forever.

Georgios Lygeris

Returning home from my Erasmus+ experience in Alanya, Turkey, I’m filled with the happiest memories and a deep sense of fulfillment from this unique opportunity. Alongside peers from Germany, Portugal, Turkey, Italy, and Spain, we explored the critical topic of sustainability in seaside countries with strong fishing economies.

Through collaborative projects and activities, I had the chance to take initiative, lead group discussions, and contribute to decision-making processes. The workshops and exercises we participated in provided valuable insights into the fishing industry and emphasized the importance of sustainable practices within maritime sectors.

Beyond the educational aspect, the program allowed us to form genuine connections with people from across Europe, applying what we learned to real-life scenarios. This experience fostered significant personal growth and deepened my appreciation for the rich diversity of European cultures.

I am forever grateful to the organizers and look forward to participating in more of their programs in the future.

Giannis Gialesakis

During my Erasmus+ project about sustainable fishing, I discovered much more than just the importance of regulations or the dangers of overfishing. This experience was transformative. It was my first project of this kind, and I truly believe it will be the start of many more amazing experiences. I made so many friends and learned so much from people all over the world—how they think, approach challenges, and solve problems in ways I hadn’t considered. The activities were beyond anything I could have imagined, and the concepts we learned came to life in such a fun and unexpected way. Most of all, I have to say that Shadi and Lefteris were the best facilitators anyone could ask for.

Ilias Paraskevas

From November 18 to 29, I had the opportunity to be part of an Erasmus+ youth exchange program titled “Working to Seas More Opportunities” in Alanya, Turkey. It was an unforgettable experience. Spending eleven days with 60 people from six different countries was a big challenge, but in the end, it worked out wonderfully, and I made some lifelong friendships.

We learned about fishing communities, their economies, and the difficulties faced by Mediterranean countries. While gaining this knowledge, we also practiced our creativity, leadership, and teamwork skills. This program was one of the best I’ve participated in, from the participants to the facilitators and the organizations involved. The accommodation, food, and facilities were well-organized, and the facilitators did an excellent job bringing 60 people together. These eleven days in Alanya gave me incredible memories and people I will never forget.

Ioannis Katsampiris Grapsas

From November 18 to 29, 60 participants from six countries came together in Alanya, Turkey, for an Erasmus+ youth exchange program titled “Working to Seas More Opportunities.” This 11-day event focused on addressing challenges faced by Mediterranean fishing communities while fostering teamwork, creativity, and leadership.

Through workshops, discussions, and team activities, we explored sustainable solutions for environmental and social issues in coastal areas. Collaborating with people from diverse cultures broadened our perspectives and strengthened our ability to work together effectively.

Beyond learning, the program was about connection. Sharing meals, conversations, and experiences helped us build friendships and appreciate each other’s traditions. Set against the stunning backdrop of Alanya, this program was a perfect blend of growth, camaraderie, and cultural exchange—leaving us with unforgettable memories and valuable lessons.

Ioannis Lambros Apostolakis

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