On Thursday, May 25, 2023, the youth exchange entitled “THINKATHON – Our Green Future” organized in Kalamata by the youth organization K.A.NE. Social Youth Development in the context of the Erasmus+ Programme was successfully completed. In it participated 26 young people and 5 group leaders, from Greece, Poland, Croatia, Bulgaria and Lithuania. For 8 whole days, the young people worked together with a common goal: promoting sustainable practices and reducing plastic waste.

Guided by the principles of non-formal education, the participants embarked on a journey of self-discovery and skill development, engaging in a variety of activities ranging from team-building exercises and brainstorming sessions to presentations and active discussions. The diverse group of participants shared their experiences, insights, and cultural perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of knowledge and mutual understanding.

A highlight of the project was the beach cleaning activity, where participants actively contributed to the beautification and preservation of Kalamata’s pristine coastal areas. Their hands-on involvement served as a powerful reminder of the impact of plastic waste on our natural environment and the urgent need for collective action.

The pinnacle of the project was the innovative THINKATHON process, a collaborative effort where participants brainstormed and developed business plans centered around reducing plastic waste. These young minds unleashed their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, crafting innovative solutions to one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

The project culminated in an open event, where the participants proudly presented their business plans to the public, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and their vision for a cleaner, greener future. The event was a testament to the power of youth engagement and the potential of non-formal education in unlocking the creativity and problem-solving skills of young individuals.

Participants left the project with a wealth of knowledge, enhanced competencies, and valuable experience, having learnt not only from the structured activities but also from each other’s diverse backgrounds and perspectives. The city of Kalamata played a gracious host, leaving a lasting positive impression on all those involved.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, team leaders, thinkathon participants, and all collaborating organizations for their participation in this project and their contribution to achieving its goals. Together, we have taken an important step towards fostering a culture of sustainability and empowerment among young people, ensuring they are equipped to take the lead in creating a more sustainable and inclusive future.