Pathways to Independent Life for Youth with NEETs: A Week of Learning, Sharing, and Growth in Sofia

In February, I had the chance to participate in an Erasmus+ youth exchange project called “Pathways to Independent Life for Youth with NEETs” held in Sofia, Bulgaria. This project was not only a valuable part of my volunteering journey but also a life-changing academic and personal experience.

Participants came from different countries — Bulgaria, Poland, Lithuania, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Throughout the week, we attended various workshops, shared ideas, created presentations, and explored solutions to support young people who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) in our own countries.

We had inspiring sessions on time management, self-perception, responsible health behavior, budgeting, autonomy, and building social networks. These academic workshops were combined with cultural experiences like a visit to the national museum, a walking tour in Sofia, and the international cultural night, which brought us all even closer.

One of the most memorable parts for me was showing the city of Sofia to the friends I met during the project — as if I were a local. I took them to my favorite cafés, hidden parks, local food spots, and walked them through the historical streets. It wasn’t just a city tour; it was a moment where I realized I had become someone confident and independent enough to guide others.

I met incredible people from various cultural backgrounds.

CULTURAL MEETING

Despite all our differences — languages, traditions, perspectives — we connected through curiosity, openness, and kindness. Getting to know them taught me so much about empathy and collaboration.

This project wasn’t only academically enriching — it was personally transformative. It gave me a new perspective on volunteering, strengthened my international network, and reminded me how powerful shared experiences can be.

If you’re dreaming of discovering Europe while growing both personally and professionally, I wholeheartedly recommend taking part in projects like this. Sometimes all it takes is one experience to change how you see the world — and yourself.