From February 28 to March 6, 2026, Matteo and Stefano took part in an international Study Visit in Tortosa, Catalonia (Spain), focused on promoting effective practices and methodologies for the inclusion of young people in vulnerable situations.
The experience brought together youth workers from various European countries, creating a space for exchange and mutual learning. Through non-formal education activities, project development sessions, and field visits, participants had the opportunity to closely explore local realities, organizations, and initiatives that work daily to overcome social, economic, and educational barriers.
During the week, Matteo and Stefano actively contributed to the exchange by sharing practices and experiences developed in their local context, including projects aimed at supporting and guiding young people. A visit to a secondary school was another meaningful moment, offering the chance to promote European opportunities and encourage active participation among younger generations.
The experience proved to be not only an opportunity for professional growth but also a moment of personal development, fostering the creation of new connections and potential future international collaborations.
🗣️ Participants’ testimonials
Stefano:
“I’ve just returned from Spain, where I took part in a study visit in Jesús, near Tortosa, in the heart of Catalonia, and it was truly a very positive experience.
There were many of us, all youth workers coming from different backgrounds and stepping outside our comfort zones. In just a few days, we managed to accomplish a lot: designing projects together, taking part in activities, exchanging ideas, and above all discovering and visiting many good practices in the area.
What impressed me the most was the group: a great atmosphere was created right from the start. We got along very well almost immediately, supporting each other and working effectively and collaboratively.
We also had the chance to meet associations, businesses, and local operators, exchanging views on approaches and projects. In addition, we visited a secondary school to present and promote European youth exchange opportunities, which was really inspiring.
I’m returning to Sardinia with great enthusiasm and a much richer set of knowledge. It’s an experience that will stay with me for a long time.”
Matteo:
“The study visit in Tortosa, a rural area of Catalonia, was for me another meaningful experience in my journey as a youth worker. I had the opportunity to represent Malik E.T.S. and engage with various organizations working with people—especially young people—in vulnerable situations.
In addition to participating in the activities, I was also able to share experiences, practices, and ideas related to projects carried out in my local area (such as the ‘Sportello in spalla’ project).
I take part in projects like this because I believe that non-formal education should have an increasingly important role within education systems. At the same time, these experiences allow me to open my mind, step out of my comfort zone, learn, discover new concrete realities, and build relationships that can turn into real collaborations to create more opportunities for young people—especially those coming from disadvantaged areas.
I came back very satisfied, with new skills, new ideas, and above all new connections with people and organizations that could become partners in future projects. Engaging with people working in different contexts allowed me not only to learn useful tools to better work with young people, but also to reflect on myself and my way of working.”
