News

Last week, we took part in a fantastic multicultural camp, where every day we “visited” a new country – without ever leaving the camp!

On the first day, we celebrated the diversity of all countries together. The morning began with fun games like dodgeball and capture the flag. Then the children created a large banner with the camp’s name, where they could write anything they wanted. Everyone received a passport and a name tag to help us get to know each other better. The passport was special because every day they got a stamp from the “representative” of the country we “visited”!

On the second day, we “traveled” to Spain. We listened to Spanish music, made fans, crafted beautiful carnations, and played lots of outdoor sports games.

The third day was dedicated to France. The children made beautiful postcards and elegant bracelets – because the French are always so chic!

On the fourth day, we explored Greece. We painted pebbles with Greek motifs, created amulets, and even made laurel wreaths, just like the winners of the ancient Olympic Games.

On the last day, we “visited” Moldova and Romania. We learned a traditional Hungarian dance (since Romania has a significant Hungarian community), made Moldovan–Romanian embroidery patterns, and even created a little hedgehog – a well-known figure in Moldova.

Every day, the children eagerly looked forward to getting a new stamp in thei

r passports. There was also a photo corner where we could take pictures to preserve these wonderful memories.

It was an unforgettable week filled with learning, play, and friendship – a true journey around the world!

News

This week at camp, our young adventurers embarked on a magical journey filled with laughter, creativity, and unforgettable memories. Our fairytale theme transported everyone into a world of imagination, where teamwork, friendship, and artistry reigned supreme.


keep reading

News

This summer, a group of 25 to 30 energetic kids came together for an unforgettable week at our superhero-themed camp. But this wasn’t just a week of dressing up — it was a journey into discovering the real powers we all have inside us. Through creativity, movement, science, and play, the children explored what it truly means to be a superhero — both on the outside and within.

Each day was packed with exciting activities. The children designed their own superhero masks and colorful power bracelets, proudly wearing them as symbols of their unique strengths. They also used empty toilet paper rolls to paint and recreate their favorite heroes — from classic comic book legends to heroes of their own imagination.

Throughout the week, the kids added piece by piece to what became their very own superhero costume. With a self-made mask, bracelet, ring, and even face paint to complete the look, each child created a one-of-a-kind outfit that reflected their unique strengths and personalities. By the end of the week, they didn’t just act like superheroes — they looked the part too!

A special part of the week was our camp mascot: the Paradisian Bird. This magical creature represented joy, color, and transformation. Its superpower? The ability to change its shape and appearance! Each day, a different counsellor brought the Paradisian Bird to life in their own way — reminding us all that being a hero means being true to yourself, embracing change, and celebrating what makes you unique.

To bring a different kind of magic into the week, we also explored science through superhero eyes. One favorite experiment was creating invisible messages using turmeric and baking soda — turning an everyday kitchen ingredient into a tool of secret communication, just like real secret agents or scientists with hidden powers.

Games and physical challenges helped us build real-life superpowers like strength, speed, and coordination. Every morning started with an energetic dance session to Bye Bye Bye by NSYNC — a fun nod to the movie Deadpool. By the end of the week, the kids had learned the full choreography and performed it with incredible energy and confidence.

Throughout the week, we also played “Superhero Bingo” and reflected on what makes someone a hero in daily life. Whether it’s helping a friend, singing confidently, dancing freely, or cleaning up without being asked — we learned that acts of kindness, courage, and responsibility are just as powerful as flying or turning invisible.

The camp was filled with laughter, movement, creativity, and connection. As the week came to an end, it was clear that each child had discovered something special about themselves. They didn’t just play superheroes — they became them. And as they left with their masks, bracelets, and new memories, we knew they would carry their superpowers into the world around them. 

News

Although the long journey was quite tiring, it was absolutely worth it to attend my very first Erasmus+ project. At first, I was a bit nervous about speaking English, especially during the introductions, but that feeling quickly disappeared when I saw that our first activity was drawing. Yes, drawing! The activities were light and playful, so I soon stopped worrying about my English.

Before this project, I couldn’t imagine that others might also struggle with English just like I do. Realizing this gave me so much confidence – I became braver and dared to speak with everyone. Even if my sentences weren’t perfect, we laughed about it together, and I made friends incredibly fast.

The organizers were always attentive and caring, making sure everyone felt comfortable and enjoyed their time. Whenever we had a problem, they were always there to help.

It’s impossible to put all the amazing moments and happy memories into words, but one of the funniest things was hearing Hungarian words pronounced in Czech. We tasted special and delicious foods, taught Hungarian dances to people from different countries, went on trips, and even took part in secret missions I never imagined would be so much fun. (Pssst… I’ll tell you my secret mission: write someone a poem and deliver it in a creative way.)

For me, this project felt like joining a new, super friendly class where no one gives you grades, yet you still feel proud and happy about what you achieved. After the sessions, we played board games and pool together or just sat by the fire talking late into the night.

I’m deeply grateful for these memories. Thank you all for everything!

News

Between July 2–8, 2025, three Romanian participants had the opportunity to take part in an Erasmus+ project hosted in the charming town of Vinci, Tuscany – the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, a place that breathes inspiration, creativity, and courage.

The project, titled INVICTUS – Nurturing Resilience and Empowerment in Youth Work, brought together 21 participants from 7 European countries, for an intense and meaningful experience focused on personal development, resilience, and connection.

Throughout the week, we took part in a variety of activities designed to help us (re)discover our individuality, strengthen our inner resources, and learn how to foster resilience in ourselves and in others. We engaged in collaborative workshops, deep self-reflection exercises, and creative methods for exploring identity, group dynamics, and problem-solving. Each morning, we started with light and fun energizers that brought us into the present and created space for openness and creativity.

One of the most powerful and challenging moments of the project was the creation of a theatre play from scratch. This process pushed us to communicate, collaborate, and create as a group. It was a truly inspiring experience that showed us how powerful storytelling and collective expression can be in building confidence and emotional strength.

What touched us the most was the unconditional acceptance felt throughout the entire experience. We had the chance to connect with open-hearted, authentic people of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Despite our differences, we shared a space where no one was judged and everyone felt free to simply be.

Beyond the planned activities, it was the informal conversations, the intercultural evenings, and the genuine moments of vulnerability that helped us grow the most – as professionals in youth work.

The project was guided by two dedicated trainers, who managed to create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment. Their approach, filled with care, depth, and creativity, allowed us to explore difficult questions and discover powerful tools for personal and social empowerment.

INVICTUS was much more than an Erasmus+ project – it was a life lesson about the strength of resilience, the power of community, and the beauty of human connection. We came back with upkept insights, emotional clarity, deep friendships, and a renewed motivation to make a positive impact.

It can be and wholeheartedly recommend that this kind of experience should be accessed by anyone who aims to grow, reconnect with themselves, and learn from others. Erasmus+ is not just about learning – it’s about evolving.

News

A youth exchange that left a lasting impression not only on the participants but on the life of Cristuru Secuiesc as well.

During the first week of July, our small town became the scene of a truly special event: the Erasmus+ youth exchange “Sense the World,” organized by the Youth Association from Transylvania (ATA), brought together young people from six different countries to create, learn, and explore the richness of human perception, the importance of social inclusion, and the daily realities of visually impaired people.

Participants from Poland, North Macedonia, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Romania engaged not just in theoretical discussions – the core of the program was experiential learning. Through interactive activities, the young participants experienced what it means to move safely, get dressed, or prepare breakfast while blindfolded and guided by one another. They also got a glimpse into the world of Braille writing and discovered the creative power of the senses through blindfolded painting with scented paints and working with clay.

While the program featured many inspiring guests and activities, one of its undeniable highlights was the opening of the “Élménytár” – a sensory exhibition experienced entirely in the dark. Designed and curated entirely by the participants, the exhibition drew inspiration from everything they had learned and experienced throughout the week. This interactive installation offered not just a creative space, but a powerful message: “The world can be discovered and understood beyond sight!”

The youth exchange also looked beyond personal growth, focusing on the local community as well. On the very first day, a specially designed “city treasure hunt” guided participants through Cristuru Secuiesc, while raising awareness about the accessibility of public spaces. These firsthand experiences, combined with discussions involving experts and visually impaired young people, led to the creation of a comprehensive set of proposals. This petition is currently open for signatures – including at the Élménytár exhibition in the Town Library – and will be formally submitted to the local authorities by ATA.

All in all, “Sense the World” was much more than a series of activities – it was a truly community-driven and perspective-shifting experience. Participants reflected on their journey, received their Youthpass certificates, and said emotional goodbyes. But they didn’t return home empty-handed: they left with new friendships, deeper self-awareness, lasting memories, and a more inclusive, conscious view of the world. These eight days truly taught us to sense the world  in a different way!

News

Our Short-Term Summer Volunteers Have Arrived!

We’re excited to announce that our short-term summer volunteers have finally arrived! Over the coming weeks, they will be organizing children’s camps in several villages across the Keresztúr micro-region.

Training for the volunteers started on Monday, focusing on how to create meaningful, engaging camps tailored to the local children. A key part of this preparation is getting to know the local culture and way of life, as this understanding helps volunteers shape the camps to truly fit the needs and values of the community.

Beyond working with children, this volunteering experience is also a chance for personal development. Participants are trained not only in organizing activities, but also in self-awareness, drug prevention, child protection, and basic first aid.

Although two months may not be enough to fully learn a new language, we’re thrilled to see how eager the volunteers are to learn Hungarian. To support this, we’ll also be offering them Hungarian language lessons throughout the summer — helping them connect even more deeply with the children and the local community.

We’re looking forward to an inspiring summer together — one full of learning, fun, and unforgettable memories for both the children and the volunteers!

News

The town of Cristuru Secuiesc will host a unique event from July 3rd to 10th. Organized by the Youth Association from Transylvania (ATA), the Erasmus+ youth exchange titled “Sense the World” promises not only exciting experiences for the participants but also thought-provoking and inspiring moments for the local community.

This eight-day program focuses on the inclusion and acceptance of blind and visually impaired individuals, as well as the exploration of using our senses in new and unexpected ways.

Participants from Poland, North Macedonia, Italy, Spain, Turkey and Romania will engage in workshops, playful activities, and creative projects to deepen their understanding of perception, empathy, and social responsibility. A special feature of the exchange is the active involvement of visually impaired young people, who will share their personal experiences and insights, offering both the group – and our town – a new perspective on how to perceive the world.

Throughout the week, the young participants won’t just be learning – they’ll also contribute to the improvement of the local community. They will gather specific suggestions on how Cristuru Secuiesc could become a more accessible and inclusive place for people with visual impairments. These recommendations will be formally presented to representatives of the local municipality in the form of a petition.

The highlight of the exchange will be a unique “Invisible Exhibition” hosted at the Town Library, opening to the public on July 9th. – No, this doesn’t mean you’ll walk into an empty room and have to use your imagination! Instead, visitors will be guided through the exhibition in complete darkness, using senses like hearing, touch, and smell to experience the artworks and installations.

If you’re curious about how others perceive the world, don’t miss the Invisible Exhibition and follow the event’s journey on ATA’s official website and social media channels!

News

Eight days, four countries, one common goal: to understand, to connect, to learn.

Between June 17–24, 2025, a powerful international youth exchange program took place in Székelykeresztúr, organized by the Youth Association from Transylvania (ATA). Supported by the Erasmus+ program, this initiative brought together young people from four countries – Romania, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Turkey – for an enriching experience focused on Roma inclusion and, more broadly, the social integration of minorities.

The goal of the program was to deepen participants’ understanding of the past, present, and cultural heritage of roma communities, while encouraging them to reflect on the values of acceptance, diversity, and civic engagement. Throughout the exchange, young people engaged in a wide variety of informal and non-formal learning activities: interactive workshops, storytelling sessions, creative media projects, and cultural visits all served to explore the complex topic of Roma inclusion.

To share the knowledge they had gained, participants organized interactive sessions at the Berde Mózes Unitarian High School in Székelykeresztúr. These activities and games aimed to raise awareness among local youth about empathy and social acceptance.

One of the program’s highlights was the “Csecso sunu” (meaning “Our Story”) community afternoon held in the Gyárfás Garden, where participants presented stories of various Roma heroes to the public. These stories were brought to life through short digital storytelling videos created by the participants themselves (now available on YouTube). After the screening, Máté Isztojka – a prominent member of the local Gábor Roma community and a team member of ATA – shared a traditional Roma folktale. The event was accompanied by homemade lemonade, traditional bread with lard, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

On the following day, participants visited key local landmarks: they explored the culture of the Gábor Roma community in Etéd, admired the historical Bözödújfalu reservoir, and discovered traditional straw hat weaving at the Museum of Straw Hats’ in Körispatak. These experiences left a lasting impression – participants returned home not only with memories but also with deep thoughts, questions, and feelings.

On the final day, a reflective session and one last workshop were held to wrap up the week. The group revisited the topic of Roma inclusion and shared their final insights and takeaways. It was a meaningful closure to a week in which learning meant more than just knowledge – it meant connection, inspiration, and lived experience.

The Youth Association from Transylvania would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, partner organizations, and supporters who contributed to the success of this program.

“Change doesn’t have to be huge – what matters is that we dare to begin.”

🎬 The digital storytelling videos created during the exchange can be viewed at the links below:

• Rafi Lajos
  
  
• Jan Cibula
  
  
• Ásós Géza
  
  
• Kibariye

News

Are you passionate about nature, personal growth, and mental well-being? Do you want to explore new cultures and ideas while surrounded by forests and fresh air? If yes, then this Erasmus+ youth exchange is for you!

About the project

“Rooted in Nature” is an 8-day international youth exchange hosted in Kirikuküla, Estonia between August 12–21, 2025, that brings together 32 young people and 5 group leaders from multiple countires.

The program aims to strengthen mental well-being by reconnecting participants with nature, themselves, and each other through outdoor experiences, group reflection, and intercultural collaboration.

Together, participants will explore how the past, present, and future influence their personal growth, and how nature can serve as a mirror for healing, self-discovery, and mindful living.

Main objectives

• Promote mental health awareness and open dialogue.

• Use outdoor activities for mindfulness and emotional regulation.

• Help young people discover tools for emotional resilience.

• Foster intercultural exchange and empathy.

• Create supportive spaces for sharing and connection.

Where?

Kirikuküla, Estonia – in a peaceful and scenic rural area near the Latvian border.

When?

12–21 August 2025
Travel days: 12th (arrival) & 21st (departure)

Who can apply?

• Young people aged 18–30 from Romani (with citizenship)

• Motivated, open-minded and interested in self-development and mental health
  Who can speak English in communication level

• Participants with fewer opportunities are welcome and encouraged to apply

• 5 participants + 1 group leader will be selected

Costs

• Participation is fully funded by Erasmus+

• Travel costs will be reimbursed up to 309 EUR

• Accommodation and meals are provided for the full duration of the program

DEADLINE TO APPLY:

Before submitting your application, please carefully read the English information package available HERE to be fully informed.

You can apply by filling out the online questionnaire available HERE until the 30th of June, 2025!