From participant to junior trainer: EuroPeers Training Course Belgium July 2025

When I first heard that the Belgian national agency is planning a training course in Eupen, I was excited and overwhelmed. Looking back at my training course, which took place in Bucharest (Romania), I could only remember all the fun I had, the incredible people I met, and the things I learned about the EuroPeers network and activities. As the opportunity to become part of the planning process as a junior trainer arose, I did not hesitate and took the chance to be part of the team.

Soon, the planning started. I met the team, which consisted of experienced and knowledgeable, kind and helpful people. Wendy, Torben, and Ingars were those who helped me a lot in my role as junior trainer. We began putting together a program, getting in contact with Lea from the NA and Marie, the international network coordinator. Together, we planned and coordinated the arrival of the 22 participants in Kloster Heidberg, Eupen.

The training started on July 9th, when the participants arrived in the venue. Slowly but surely the people got to know each other and the city of Eupen, through a walk&talk. The evening allowed some more connecting and socializing, but also resting for those who travelled from far. Day 2 started full of energy with the Welcome Space and EuroPeers Museum, which allowed us to hear participants’ expectations, knowledge and experience through storytelling. In the afternoon, the participants were introduced to the EuroPeers network, and we exchanged information and knowledge about the different European youth and Erasmus+ programs, as well as our local EuroPeers actions. Day 3 was quite eventful; it started with us trainers sharing workshops to acquire skills such as storytelling, designing workshops and projects or integrating mental health in activities. The afternoon was spent in Aachen, where the participants had the opportunity to gain visibility and audience for the EuroPeers actions. Activities were carried out in different ways, by approaching people, making videos, taking pictures or using street art. Overall, the approaches were successful, and the evening was rounded off with a dinner in the city. Day 4 was effectively used for activity planning as future EuroPeers. Participants had time to brainstorm and go through a step-by-step process to realize their first activity in their country. Then, it was already the last evening and time to say goodbye to each other. The group dynamic was incredible, and the people built strong connections with each other. This experience showed me how much I enjoy participating in youth work and how much I value creating a space where people can connect and grow. The diversity of the group allowed a focus on different perspectives, values, and knowledge backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of understanding cultural differences and learning methods.

Overall, the training course was a great success with positive feedback from the participants and a great learning process for me as a junior trainer. Being a junior trainer allowed me to step into a new role of responsibility and creativity. It encouraged me to keep growing and take on new challenges. I aim to continue supporting others in taking their own steps forward to build a community they want to live in.