My mid-term training took place in Trakai, 9-13 April. Our team consisted of two Lithuanian trainers and 12 EVS volunteers from Germany, Austria, Georgia, Armenia, Ukraine, Spain, Portugal and Romania. The main aim of the workshops was to make us reflect on our past, present and future. This allowed us to take a more holistic look at our EVS experience. The trainers also left enough space for our questions and needs which were later integrated into the daily programme.
The first day was about getting to know each other with various team-building activities, and creating a safe space for sharing and personal growth. The second day was more personal since we had the opportunity to reflect on and share our personal experience. We also tried to recognise our personal change throughout the volunteering period. Wednesday was the most diverse day regarding the programme. In the beginning, we dug into the various aspects and importance of YouthPass. In the afternoon, our group learnt how to make traditional Lithuanian soap with the help of a local craftsman. The programme of Thursday was divided into two parts. First, we had to prepare some short presentations on Lithuanian culture. My group decided to raise the question of Lithuanian people’s coldness. This was followed by an open space workshop where everyone had the opportunity to organise some activities. I led a quick meditation session close to the lake. The final day’s topic was reintegration. The group usually spent the evenings playing board games and having discussions. The last evening was celebrated with a bonfire and chocolate baked bananas.
Overall, the mid-term was a surprisingly positive experience that made me think more deeply about my present and future plans. Apart from that, I was happy to meet some new people and spend some me time outside of my day-to-day life in Vilnius.
LGL is carrying out the 10-month project “Disappearing Borders: Empowering LGBT Community and Allies In Lithuania” under the Erasmus+ program EVS (European Voluntary Service).
