CET platforma, an NGO based in Skopje, has organized an Erasmus+ youth exchange in Popova Shapka, North Macedonia from 22nd to 29th of August 2021 in order to explore the cultural universal of marriage and wedding ceremonies in different countries as a way for young people to appreciate and learn more about different cultures, traditions and religions. The project named “It’s All About Love” gathered 36 participants from North Macedonia, Italy, Poland, Greece, Slovenia, Turkey and Hungary.
The project helped participants to improve their mutual understanding, accept and cherish diversity and engage better when exposed to an intercultural environment by learning from each other, sharing knowledge, experiences and practices. Mutual understanding is the first step of building a community where differences are accepted as a condition for a prosperous society. One of the best ways to get into the deep of other cultures is through analyzing wedding ceremonies since they incorporate most of the elements of culture. It’s one of the most universal traditions in the world, but it’s celebrated differently by everyone.
The simulation of wedding ceremonies from each participating country and organizing intercultural evenings allowed participants to learn extensively about participating countries’ cultural elements such as traditions, religions, rituals, clothing, music, dances and languages. The youth exchange activities were run interactively and creatively by using the methodology of non-formal and experiential learning that included group work, role-playing, theatre, simulations, discussions, presentations, outdoor activities and more.
Besides, learning about culture, participants also explored different love expressions around the world, met with young people and organizations from Tetovo, learned about Erasmus+ programme and the opportunity it provides to young people as well as designed activities that they will run back in their local communities.
All in all, the effective work and dynamic energy of the group, has provided outstanding results and made a significant impact on all the levels, for which all the participants and partner organizations can be definitely proud.
During the project, participants have also created a website www.love.cetplatform.mk where everyone can find more information about the project, its objectives, activities, results, media and contacts of involved organizations.
The project “It is All About Love” was organized with the support of Erasmus+ programme of the European Union and was granted by the Macedonian National agency for European educational programs and mobility (www.na.org.mk).
