The ambassadors of latvian “EuroPeers” network participate in two-day hike on the “Forest trail”

At the end of June, a two-day hike was organized on The Baltic long-distance hiking trail “The forest trail” by “EuroPeers” network of Latvia in collaboration with Jaunatnes Starptautisko programmu agentūra (JSPA). The event was attended by 20 participants, supported by members of the “Forest trail” volunteer movement, Toms and Inga – under the leadership of Aija Neilande – and nature guide Juris Smalinskis.

To promote green travel options, the hike participants used the train as their mode of transportation, each traveling from their own city to Tukums to meet there. On the first day, the young people got to know each other by playing various non-formal educational games and completing joint tasks at the Tukums Youth Center.

On the first day the distance from Tukums to Jaunmokas had to be covered, walking approximately 14 km in total. Along this route, litter was collected, and during a rest break, an activity was carried out in which the amount of CO2 absorbed by one tree was measured using various methods. Later, the young people discussed among themselves the importance of trees in everyday life, promoting awareness of their own ecological footprint and sustainable environmental habits. The nature guide introduced the youth to interesting facts about the plants and trees, insects, and reptiles encountered on the trail.

Stopping at various locations, they also explored cultural and historical heritage — visiting the ruins of Vecmoku Manor, a linden alley, and a mill.

At the end of the evening, the “EuroPeers” network ambassadors shared their experiences participating in European Union youth program projects. The activity about youth exchange project opportunities was led by Leandra Spriesle, while Ulvis Kristers Svelpe and Luiza Razna talked about the European Commission initiative “DiscoverEU.” The evening concluded with roasting brought sausages and marshmallows around the campfire, and the night was spent in tents on the grounds of Jaunmoku Castle.

On the second day, the young people had the opportunity to help with trail restoration work, marking the trail with new signs, painting route markers, and clearing overgrown markings. The volunteer work carried out in restoring the “Forest trail” section successfully resonated with the experience of “EuroPeers” ambassador Simona Pastare. She shared her story about participating in a European Solidarity Corps volunteer project. The hike concluded at the Pure Chocolate Museum,

where participants learned about the history of chocolate and made chocolate candies together.The activities promoted understanding of European youth goals, such as a sustainable green Europe and the provision of information about European organizations and programs to young people. By playing the game “Kas ES esmu?”, the youth also explored the values, goals, and priorities of the European Union.