An Erasmus+ training for youth workers and future group leaders, titled “Youth Leader 101,” was held in Tisno from March 6 to 12, 2026. The project involved 26 participants from 11 European countries, who through an intensive program learn how to effectively lead groups of young people during Erasmus+ exchanges and international projects.

Over the past few days, participants have engaged in various interactive workshops, simulations, and team activities using informal education methods aimed at developing the leadership, organizational, and communication skills needed for working with youth.

The first two workdays covered time management, setting priorities, and defining the role of the group leader, and the day concluded with an introduction to Youthpass and a joint reflection. The focus was also on the project cycle, namely the phases of preparation, implementation, and monitoring of projects for young people. Through practical exercises, participants explored the decision-making process as well as the responsibilities of the group leader in various situations, with special attention given to non-formal education methods.

During the training, the role of the group leader and the relationship with the young participants were discussed. Through role-playing activities, participants analyzed real situations that can occur during exchanges. After that, the participants ran workshops they had prepared themselves, thereby developing skills in leading educational activities. Special emphasis was also placed on communication skills, which are essential for effectively leading groups of young people.

Participants learned about evaluation methods and activities carried out after the project's completion. A highlight of the program was the presentation in the Tisno Municipal Council chamber, where participants presented youth policies, projects, and initiatives from their local communities. This gave participants the opportunity to exchange experiences and present models of cooperation between civil society organizations and local authorities in working with young people.

The final working day of the training is dedicated to creating the final manual, which is the main output of the project. This document will contain a detailed overview of the training, the informal education methods used, and practical information and tips for future group leaders. The manual will be shared with all partner organizations and will also be available to all interested parties as a tool for preparing group leaders before participating in Erasmus+ youth exchanges.

Pravi učinak ovog treninga vidjet će se već u svibnju, tijekom nadolazeće Erasmus+ razmjene mladih, gdje će upravo ovi educirani sudionici imati priliku primijeniti stečena znanja i vještine kroz aktivno sudjelovanje u programu kao voditelji grupa.

The project is funded by the Erasmus+ program of the European Union.

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