KA152 project “Painting A World Without Discrimination”: A Youth Exchange in Samsun, Türkiye

Project Context

Discrimination continues to affect many young people, particularly those coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. It manifests in various forms—based on disability, social status, cultural background, or unequal access to opportunities—and often leads to exclusion and marginalisation.

This youth exchange was created as a response to these challenges, using art as a universal and inclusive tool. Painting and visual expression were chosen as methods that allow participants to communicate emotions, experiences, and perspectives beyond language barriers, creating a safe space for dialogue and understanding.

                                                               Aim and Objectives

The main aim of the project was to raise awareness about discrimination among young people and to promote art as a means of addressing social issues.

The specific objectives were to:

  • increase participants’ awareness of different forms of discrimination,

  • promote inclusion, equality, and respect for diversity,

  • empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds through creative expression,

  • strengthen intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding,

  • encourage active participation and social engagement through non-formal methods.

                                                          Participants and Inclusion

The project placed a strong emphasis on inclusion and equal participation.
Participants came from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, including young people with fewer opportunities.

Organisations from Türkiye and Bulgaria, working with persons with disabilities, included participants with disabilities and accompanying persons. Other partner countries were encouraged to involve young people facing various social, economic, or educational disadvantages, ensuring a balanced and inclusive group dynamic

                                                          Activities and Methodology

The youth exchange was based on non-formal education principles, combining creative workshops with reflection and group interaction.

Key activities included:

  • painting and visual art workshops focused on themes of discrimination, equality, and inclusion,

  • group discussions and reflection sessions addressing personal experiences and social realities,

  • intercultural activities fostering cooperation and empathy,

  • collaborative creation of artworks conveying shared messages against discrimination,

  • evaluation and reflection activities supporting personal development and group learning.

Art served both as a method of expression and as a tool for dialogue, allowing participants to explore sensitive topics in an open and supportive environment.

                                                               Impact and Results

The project created meaningful impact on participants by:

  • deepening their understanding of discrimination and its social consequences,

  • strengthening empathy, tolerance, and intercultural sensitivity,

  • improving self-confidence and creative self-expression,

  • encouraging active engagement and responsibility within diverse groups,

  • fostering long-lasting intercultural connections.

Through shared creative processes, participants developed a stronger sense of solidarity and a clearer understanding of the importance of inclusive and respectful societies.

                                                            European Added Value

By bringing together young people from six different countries, the project highlighted both shared challenges and diverse perspectives. The Erasmus+ framework enabled cross-border cooperation, cultural exchange, and the promotion of fundamental European values such as human dignity, equality, and social inclusion.

The exchange demonstrated how creative, participatory approaches can effectively address complex social issues at a European level.

Painting A World Without Discrimination is an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project implemented within Key Action 1 (KA152) and hosted in Samsun, Türkiye. The exchange brought together young people from different European countries to explore the topic of discrimination through art, creativity, and non-formal education.

The activity took place from 3 to 9 December 2025,, and gathered 30 participants from six partner countries: Ireland, Serbia, Bulgaria, Türkiye, Germany, and Spain.