Introduction

After returning from the Youth Exchange "Step Out of Your Comfort Zone Mentally: Embrace the Unknown" (MENTAL COMFORT), which took place in Pissouri, Cyprus from 12 to 19 October, the Romanian participants and group leaders continued the impact of the project through a series of local dissemination and follow-up activities organized with the support of the organization HESSA Association from Iași.

The aim of these activities was to share the experience of the Youth Exchange, raise awareness about mental health and emotional wellbeing, and introduce more young people to the opportunities offered through the Erasmus+ programme. Participants presented the project, explained the concept of stepping out of the mental comfort zone, and shared their personal experiences with other young people who had not yet taken part in international mobility projects.

Through presentations, discussions, and interactive moments, the Romanian team managed to bring the spirit of the project to their local communities while encouraging more young people to explore international learning, non-formal education, and intercultural cooperation.

Description of Follow-Up Activities

Follow-Up Activity 1 : Dissemination Event – Valea Lupului High School

One of the first dissemination activities organized by the Romanian team took place at Valea Lupului High School, where approximately 23 young people aged 17–18 participated in the event.

During the session, the participants introduced HESSA Association, a non-profit organization based in Iași that works actively in youth development and Erasmus+ projects. They also informed the students about future opportunities, mentioning that an Info Day would be organized soon for young people interested in learning more about international youth activities.

The Romanian participants then presented the MENTAL COMFORT Youth Exchange, explaining that the project was implemented through non-formal and semi-formal education methods and involved young people from Cyprus, Romania, Poland, Spain, Portugal, and Lithuania. They described how each country participated with six participants and two group leaders, creating a multicultural environment where learning, teamwork, and friendship were central elements.

During the presentation, they explained the concepts of Comfort Zone, Fear Zone, and Learning Zone, emphasizing that real personal growth often happens when people step beyond what feels safe and familiar. They also spoke about the importance of the Youthpass Certificate, highlighting its role in recognizing learning outcomes and personal development achieved during Erasmus+ activities.

To make the presentation more engaging, they shared examples from the cultural nights, group activities, and visits organized during the Youth Exchange. For many students attending the event, this was their first direct introduction to Erasmus+ Youth Exchanges, and the session successfully sparked curiosity and interest in participating in similar international opportunities in the future.

A second follow-up activity took place on 17 January in Iași, where HESSA organized a dissemination event bringing together 24 young volunteers aged between 15 and 25.

The session was dedicated to sharing the results and experiences of the MENTAL COMFORT Youth Exchange, with a particular focus on the topic of mental health and emotional wellbeing among young people. Participants explained how the project addressed these themes through discussions, creative activities, teamwork, and intercultural dialogue.

During the event, the Romanian team discussed the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can openly talk about emotions and personal challenges, highlighting how non-formal education can support personal growth and self-confidence.

They also presented the Youthpass certificate, explaining how it helps participants reflect on the competencies they developed during the exchange and how these skills can be valuable for future educational and professional opportunities.

For many of the young volunteers present, this was the first time they learned about youth exchanges in such a practical way, and their reaction was very positive. The event not only raised awareness about mental health but also motivated participants to become more involved in international youth projects and Erasmus+ opportunities in the future.

The dissemination activity took place at the university, in a seminar room, and gathered around 30 participants. At the beginning of the presentation, we introduced the general concept of an Erasmus+ experience, explaining what this type of opportunity means for young people and how it can support their personal, social, and educational development. This helped create a clear context for those who were less familiar with international youth projects and the benefits they can bring.

After this introduction, we presented the project in more detail, focusing on its main theme, the way it was implemented, and the overall learning experience. We spoke about the structure of the program, the types of activities carried out during the mobility, and the most memorable parts of the experience from our perspective, including the favorite activities that had the strongest impact. The presentation created interest among the participants and offered them a clearer understanding of both the project itself and the value of taking part in an Erasmus+ mobility.

In addition to the local dissemination activities, the Romanian participants actively shared their experiences through social media platforms, helping to spread the results of the project to a wider audience.

Participants posted reflections, videos, and testimonials describing their learning journey, the importance of mental wellbeing, and the impact of stepping out of their comfort zones.

Some of the online dissemination links include:

Alexia

• https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14JwSJgk5xW/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

• https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AHiL6tSwL/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

Anastasia

• https://www.linkedin.com/posts/anastasia-michaela-ionescu-2126162b6_reflecting-on-an-inspiring-erasmus-youth-activity-7396486738577231872-WTEK 

• https://www.linkedin.com/posts/anastasia-michaela-ionescu-2126162b6_what-i-gained-from-the-erasmus-youth-ugcPost-7396487843822583808-ge8K 

Calin

• https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Bzr4V4xMR/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

Stefan

• https://www.instagram.com/p/DQMDDwODW-G/ 

Stefania

• https://www.instagram.com/p/DSNJ_0ZDXpe/ 

• https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSNJyjcjTNb/ 

Video Testimonials

• https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRFxqWNiMXB/ 

Through these posts and videos, the Romanian participants continued to promote Erasmus+, mental health awareness, and international youth cooperation beyond the duration of the project.

Evaluation from Participants

The Romanian participants shared their personal reflections about their experience during the MENTAL COMFORT Youth Exchange, highlighting the impact the project had on their personal development, confidence, and understanding of mental wellbeing.

Sarah: The Erasmus experience was for me an important lesson about mental comfort and about having the courage to step out of my comfort zone. At the beginning, the change of environment, language, and people was challenging, but these challenges helped me discover myself better. I learned how to adapt, communicate more openly, and have more confidence in my own decisions. Stepping out of my comfort zone was not easy, but it allowed me to grow personally and become more independent and self-confident. Erasmus was not only an academic experience, but also one that changed my perspective about myself and the world.

Stefan: My name is Stefan, I am 17 years old, and I had the great opportunity to take part in the "Mental Comfort" project. From the very beginning, I noticed that this Erasmus experience was very well organized. We had supportive leaders and a friendly team that made the experience even more enjoyable. The activities were focused on mental health and included techniques such as journaling and building healthy habits. I also had the chance to meet participants from five different countries and learn about their cultures during the cultural nights. This Erasmus experience was one of the coolest moments of my life, and I would recommend such projects to anyone because of the memories and learning they provide.

Stefania: The "Mental Comfort" project was an opportunity for which I will always be grateful. Through interactive and engaging activities, we explored topics related to mental health, comfort zones, and the importance of physical activity. The facilitators created a positive and enjoyable atmosphere that helped everyone feel comfortable participating. I met wonderful people from different countries and created memories that I will always cherish.

Anastasia: Taking part in the "Mental Comfort" project was a truly meaningful experience for me. At first I felt nervous because everything was unfamiliar, but with time I became more open and confident. The project helped me understand how important mental health is and how much we can grow when we allow ourselves to try something new. I also loved meeting people from other cultures and learning about their traditions. This experience gave me beautiful memories and stronger trust in myself. 

Calin: For me, Erasmus in Cyprus was much more than a simple trip. It was an experience that helped me grow both personally and socially. The theme of mental comfort made us reflect on our habits and emotions and on how we deal with everyday challenges. Working in mixed international teams helped us communicate better and build meaningful connections. I returned home with new ideas, stronger self-awareness, and unforgettable memories.

Alexia: The "Mental Comfort" youth exchange was one of the most beautiful experiences I have had so far. The activities were well connected to the topic of mental health and helped us understand that feeling fear when facing something new is completely normal. Growth begins exactly in those moments. The cultural nights and intercultural exchanges made the experience even more special. Erasmus gave me confidence, motivation, and unforgettable memories.

Ioana (Group Leader): Being a group leader in the project was both meaningful and rewarding. I had the chance to support participants while also reflecting on the importance of mental health and emotional wellbeing. It was inspiring to see how the young people became more confident and open during the activities. The project was well structured and created a safe learning environment, allowing both participants and leaders to grow through the experience.

Andreea (Group Leader): Participating as a group leader in the "Mental Comfort" project was a beautiful learning experience. I had the opportunity to support the Romanian team and observe how much impact an Erasmus+ project can have on young people. Seeing participants step out of their comfort zones and connect with others from different cultures was truly inspiring. For me, this project represented personal growth, intercultural learning, and the joy of being part of a meaningful international experience.