“No Borders, No Barriers”: Turning Inclusion from a Cause into a Reality
From February 1 to 8, our organization’s team participated in the international training “No Borders, No Barriers”, which took place in the picturesque city of Amasya, Turkey. Together with colleagues from Turkey, Poland, Latvia, Romania and Italy, we immersed ourselves in one of the most important topics of our time – how to break down the barriers that we often set for ourselves and others.
The main focus of the training was not just the physical presence of people with special needs in our activities as organizations working with young people, but their active participation and contribution. We discussed how to create an environment and activities in which everyone can find their space, feel accepted and most of all – contribute according to their unique opportunities, talents and skills.
Through the methods of non-formal education, we spent several intensive days in which:
- We explored our own stereotypes and prejudices;
- We analyzed real cases and successful models of work from different partner countries;
We shared ideas and drew plans for a more inclusive and empathetic world.
Exchange of experience and methodology
The program was diverse, with each partner country preparing and moderating different sessions. On our part, Pepa Peneva presented the topic of Inclusive Design Thinking. The focus of the session was on planning activities in which people with special needs are placed at the center of the process, allowing them to develop their qualities.
For all those who are interested in the methodology, we also share the [Handbook for Inclusive Design Thinking: HANDBOOK] specially prepared for the training, which serves as a practical tool for applying these principles in a real environment.
This experience in Amasya reminded us of an important truth that will continue to guide our work in the future:
“Inclusion is not charity, but providing equal access to an experience.”
Thank you to the hosts and all partners for the inspiration and shared energy! We are moving forward with new ideas on how to make our initiatives even more open and accessible to everyone.
The project is funded by the EU’s program “Erasmus+”.
