IMPLEMENTATION
ACT Together took place in Paredes, Porto, Portugal, from the 13th to 19th February, 2026
13 of February, 2026
ARRIVAL
14 of February, 2026
First day | Daily report Spain
Today was the first full day of the ACT Together Youth Exchange in Paredes, under the Erasmus+ programme.
In the morning, after breakfast at Casa da Juventude, we took part in several ice-breaking activities, including a dynamic speed dating session that helped everyone get to know each other more easily. We also created a "tree" with our fears, expectations, and contributions, which encouraged unity and inclusion from the very beginning. Before lunch, we had a debate activity where we agreed or disagreed with different statements, promoting respectful discussion and active listening.
In the afternoon, we worked in small groups to define the rules we would follow during the exchange, reinforcing our sense of responsibility and active participation. Later, we completed a creative team challenge: building the tallest spaghetti tower capable of holding a marshmallow on top, which strengthened cooperation and teamwork among different nationalities. The day ended with a reflection session in national groups.
We felt fulfilled, welcomed, and integrated thanks to the open-minded atmosphere and good communication among everyone. We also started learning each other's names through fun games and began adapting to Portuguese culture while learning some new Portuguese words.
15 of February, 2026
Second day | Daily report Romania
On the second day of the youth exchange in Paredes, within the Erasmus+ project, we focused on environmental awareness and sustainability.
We participated in energizers, including the Ninja game and "The Princess and the Castle," which kept the group motivated. The workshops included Mission Impossible (environmental challenges), creating upcycled bags from old t-shirts, arranging environmental events and policies on a timeline, designing a sustainable island society in teams, and a final reflection activity using the iceberg method to explore visible and deeper sustainability practices.
Although the day was intense and a bit tiring, we stayed engaged and completed almost all tasks. We learned the importance of sustainability, responsible resource management, eco-friendly alternatives, and respectful communication when debating ideas.
Key message: We must think not only as individuals, but as a society, creating a safe and sustainable environment for everyone.
16 of February, 2026
Third day | Daily report Turkiye
Today, guided by the Portuguese team, we explored Porto through a rich cultural immersion experience. We visited the oceanfront Capela do Senhor da Pedra, admired the city's architecture, street art, and sustainability efforts, and enjoyed local cuisine, including the traditional Francesinha and Pastel de Nata. We also explored a famous park and the renowned Livraria Lello.
Throughout the day, we felt enthusiastic, curious, and deeply connected to the city, ending with a sense of "sweet exhaustion" and collective happiness. We learned about Portuguese culture, culinary traditions, literary heritage, and the city's relationship with the Atlantic Ocean. It was a memorable day blending culture, sustainability, and shared experience.
17 of February, 2026
Fourth day | Daily report Cyprus
On Tuesday, the day began with energizers from the Cyprus and Turkish teams, setting a positive and dynamic tone. Through creative and interactive activities, we explored themes related to food sustainability, environmental footprint, communication, and responsible decision-making. We designed low-footprint meals within a budget, debated the balance between enjoyment and environmental responsibility, and completed simulations about environmental participation and government budget allocation. These activities challenged us to think critically about sustainability, democracy, and the real-life consequences of environmental decisions.
Although the day was intense and sometimes overwhelming, we felt heard, valued, and deeply connected as a group. Working in mixed teams strengthened our bonds and encouraged collaboration. We learned that every decision has environmental consequences and that active citizenship is key to creating meaningful change. We ended the day feeling aware, responsible, inspired and happily tired.
18 of February, 2026
Last day | Daily report Portugal
On the final day, we began with energizers and dance led by the Spanish team, followed by calculating our personal ecological footprints and mapping environmental challenges from our countries. We collaborated on creative solutions, heard inspiring words from local leaders, and ended with satirical plays, reflective exercises with Dixit cards, diploma distribution, and heartfelt farewells.
The day evoked mixed emotions—energy, curiosity, responsibility, joy, and bittersweet sadness. We felt deeply connected as a group and appreciated the power of collaboration and cultural exchange.
We learned the impact of our consumption habits, the value of collective problem-solving, and how shared experiences can foster growth and community. While our ecological footprints revealed the need for change, the bonds we formed showed the lasting positive impact we leave on each other.