The day started with a fun energizer to shake off any morning tiredness, followed by a sharing session where participants showed their favorite photos and videos from the Kobuleti city centre game. It was great seeing everyone’s excitement as participants laughed and talked about their different experiences in the city game.

Afterward, the participants took on a creative task to explore opportunities of the Erasmus+ Programme and learn about the Youthpass. Each team brought their own unique spin, presenting ideas on what makes this youth exchange stand out from other Erasmus+ Programmes. The management team was impressed by everyone’s dedication and creativity.

The main focus throughout the day was about building intercultural awareness, breaking down social barriers, and inspiring active citizenship through inspiring figures in sports who actively fight against discrimination – powerful reminders of the impact everyone can have in promoting solidarity and tolerance. This was done through a team spirit relay that emphasized teamwork beyond physical speed, and role-play: Sports Heroes that highlighted athletes’ roles in promoting peace.

The day concluded with Daily Reflection at first among each country’s team and afterwards among the group leaders. After the dinner Latvia held the Intercultural Night sharing six most important and interesting facts about Latvia, held an interactive quiz about Latvia and shared their traditional food and drinks. And to wrap up, participants enjoyed the cultural evening filled with delicious food from Latvia in a beautiful way to experience other country’s culture, share stories, and bond over incredible dishes.

A very important part of the project was also the feedback and reflections of the participants. Here are testimonials of the team of Latvia:

Elgars Vaļģis
Project S.P.O.R.T. in Kobuleti was a great experience with activities involving leadership, teamwork, communication and mindfulness through sports and games. I really enjoy how Erasmus+ projects allow young people to meet young people from all over the Europe, in this project I made many friends from Latvia, Lithuania, Georgia, Hungary, Italy and Austria. To participate in such event is valuable to grow in previously mentioned skills.

Diāna Šulce
Participating in the Erasmus+ youth exchange was an amazing experience that deepened my understanding of different cultures. Through engaging sports activities, I realized how language isn’t a barrier to communication; instead, it can be a powerful tool to bridge cultural differences. The program’s exercises helped me reflect on my own skills, recognize areas for improvement, and build on my strengths. Connecting with participants from various backgrounds taught me the value of teamwork and open-mindedness. Overall, the exchange inspired me to embrace diversity and gave me a greater appreciation for intercultural collaboration.

Toms Jansons
Had the pleasure of taking part in the Erasmus+ youth exchange “S.P.O.R.T: Strengthening Participation, Opportunities, Respect, and Tolerance Through Sports” in the beautiful town of Kobuleti, Georgia. This program brought together participants from diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual understanding. Through a series of engaging non-formal activities, workshops, and interactive discussions, we explored the deep connection between mental and physical health, emphasizing how sports can be a powerful tool to promote well-being. We delved into the role of sports in breaking down barriers, building bridges, and creating spaces of tolerance and respect among individuals and communities. Grateful for this incredible opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to a meaningful cause. Looking forward to applying these lessons in promoting unity and understanding through sports in my own community!

Mārcis Tomsons
This Erasmus+ youth exchange was my first project, and it opened my eyes to all the incredible opportunities Erasmus+ offers. I was able to deepen my communication skills while connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, which made me more confident in cross-cultural interactions. Learning about different cultures through shared activities and discussions broadened my perspective and taught me the value of diversity. I’m grateful for this experience—it’s inspired me to explore more Erasmus+ projects and to keep growing personally and professionally.

Sandija Zaļupe
An enriching experience of how sports can serve not only to promote competition and challenge, to maintain and promote physical fitness, but also as a cultural tool in uniting nations. Six countries spent 10 days learning best practices in promoting intercultural competence as the world becomes more and more interconnected and diverse. The goal of the project to promote a culture of tolerance, respect and mutual understanding among young people from different backgrounds with the help of sports was achieved, therefore it will definitely bear fruit in ensuring the project’s follow-up and promoting sustainability.

Rēzija Špone
This was an exciting experience. This was my second youth exchange ever and also the second one in Kobuleti, Georgia. I never get tired of these exchanges and the hospitality of the Georgian participants and facilitators. This exchange was a favourite to me because all my school time I have been practicing track and field athletics and I already know how sports can unite people and whole nations. Yes, sports unites – it united us – 36 participants of 6 different countries, with different mentalities and from different cultures. I gained new friends again – friends for life!

 Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Agency for International Programs for Youth Republic of Latvia (JSPA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority JSPA can be held responsible for them.

 Project No 2024-1-LV02-KA152-YOU-000242943, implemented in cooperation with Agency for International Programs for Youth.

Project coordinator: BK-95, Latvia
Project partners: Youth Center of Georgia , “Neuer Start”, Austria , Travel Enjoy Learn, Lithuania , Comune di Ghedi, Italy , Szivárvány Törzs Közhasznú Egyesület, Hungary .