European Footprints: Tracing the Paths of Cultural Changemakers

European Footprints: Tracing the Paths of Cultural Changemakers is an Erasmus+ DiscoverEU Inclusion project designed for young people with fewer opportunities. Its main objective is to demonstrate that Europe’s cultural heritage is not just a part of history books, but a living source of inspiration for understanding today’s world.

Participants will travel across Europe following in the footsteps of outstanding cultural figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Victor Hugo, Edvard Grieg, Franz Kafka, and Pablo Picasso, exploring places connected with their lives and work. Through field research, artistic activities, and immersion in local cultures, they will discover how the ideas of these remarkable personalities continue to shape contemporary Europe and inspire future generations.

THE PROJECT AIMS TO:

• strengthen young people’s sense of European identity and cultural belonging;
• develop intercultural, communication, and civic competences;
• foster critical thinking, creativity, and artistic expression through non-formal education;
• increase young people’s sense of initiative and ownership by actively involving them in planning and implementing project activities;
• promote tolerance, dialogue, and mutual understanding;
• provide young people with fewer opportunities with access to international mobility experiences and encourage their active participation in European society.

TARGET GROUPS

The project is addressed to 25 young people aged 18–21, with a particular focus on those facing fewer opportunities, especially due to:

• living in rural areas or small towns;
• economic disadvantages;
• limited access to non-formal education, international activities, and cultural institutions.

The project will provide participants with comprehensive organisational and mentoring support, enabling them to gain valuable international experiences that would otherwise be difficult to access.

PROJECT ACTIVITIES

Throughout the project, participants will:

• travel across Europe following the footsteps of renowned European cultural figures;
• conduct field research and document their discoveries;
• participate in workshops based on non-formal education methods;
• create artistic and multimedia outputs, including films, podcasts, photography, photo reports, and mini exhibitions;
• engage with local communities and experience their cultural heritage;
• organise dissemination activities and share the project’s outcomes within their local communities after completing their mobility.

PROJECT RESULTS

The project will enable participants to:

• develop social, civic, and intercultural competences;
• increase their self-confidence and sense of empowerment;
• gain a deeper understanding of Europe’s cultural heritage and shared values;
• strengthen teamwork, leadership, and project management skills;
• produce high-quality educational and promotional materials documenting their journey and learning experiences;
• become ambassadors of European values, inspiring other young people to actively engage in cultural, civic, and community life.

DURATION

2026-08-01 – 2027-12-31

Source of funding