BELARUS
BELARUS
Participants fromBelarus made 2 followup activities one online and one in person as followed:
1st Online Follow Up Activity
Overall, the follow-up interactive seminar builds upon the success of the RESPECTRUM project, providing participants with a platform to further enhance their knowledge and skills in creating safe spaces for youth to learn about sex education and reproductive health. Participants gained valuable insights, shared experiences, and developed ideas to drive meaningful change in their communities. OVerall satisfaction by the seminar was high.
2nd Follow Up Activity with Belarusian Students
Anna Shatilo made a follow up activity with 10 Belarusians students of Belarusian universities and schools in Gomel,Belarus
Following the success of the RESPECTRUM project, a follow-up open space "Let's talk about it..." was organized for young Belarusians aged 16-22 to enhance their knowledge and skills in creating safe spaces for youth to learn about sex education and reproductive health.
We started the workshop with a little ice-melting part. Each person picked up a small toy, then reposed and complimented the other person. And so, in a circle. Thus, a trusting and friendly atmosphere was built.
Then we started the first topic "What is sexual education for us?" We discussed our identities and values and our roles in society. Then we did an exercise Flower Gender, and the participants really liked it. Since we had both boys and girls of different ages in our circle, we were able to analyze one situation from different angles.
The next topic we had was "Did our parents talk to us about sex?" We figured out that most of the participants of the workshop did not have a conversation with the parents, and in general this is a taboo topic in the family. And it turned out that no one from the participants discussed sexual education and question of sexuality with the parent of the opposite sex.
Further, we stopped on the topic of gender stereotypes, agism, psychological and physical sexual abuse (especially, how to prevent it). We talked about consent and safe communication.
In the end, it grew into live communication. We shared stories and exchanged experiences. Due to the little group, everyone felt comfortable and included. We finished with the reflection block, and I asked a question "What valuable knowledge did you get today?" Participants were grateful for this opportunity, and it was clear that people wanted to talk on that topic, there was no embarrassment or any negativity.
Links for online dissemination
Feedback From Participants on RESPECTRUM
project
Mira
This project was made with a lot of love for
the participants. Everything from the hotel and food to the team of trainers
was perfect. I would especially like to mention the
trainers, with whom you could talk about everything even outside of the
training room. Who were genuine and friendly people. Thank you for the project, during which I had
the opportunity to learn more about the situation of sexuality education in my
country and many others.
Nastya
From June 19th to 26th I had the incredible opportunity to take part in Erasmus project called reSPECTRUm which took place in Pissouri, Cyprus and was organized by Acpelia .The main goal of the project was to explore and create new tools for non-formal education about inclusive sexual and reproductive health. The project was perfect combination of educational content, practice and, for, sure people. Unbelievable opportunity to cross-cultural communication and creating connections. It was so inspiring to exchange experiences, to discuss exciting issues, try to find the causes and possible solutions to the current situations in the sphere of sexual and reproductive education.I really would like to express my gratitude and admiration to the coach and organizers!! The host organization, represented by Nicholas, took care of the participants like a real parent :) : providing all the necessary information, creating conditions for training, recreation, leisure, team building, introduction to the culture and traditions of Cyprus, making the stay on the project as comfortable as possible.
I admire the professionalism of the coach Victoria and the level of organization of the process! An ideal combination of theory, techniques and practice: all the information that was given to us during the lectures was supported by examples, practical tasks, and the study of new approaches to certain issues. Victoria was a very sensitive trainer: listened carefully to the needs of the group and adjusted the training plan as needed. I really appreciate the opportunity to be there, grateful that I received all this unbelievable experience, knowledge and practices that will help me growing in the field of sexual education.
Anna
It was one of the best projects I have taken part in. The host country was incredibly friendly and kind to every participant. It was a pleasure to communicate with a such number of energetic and inspiring people. I really liked tools and practical exercises that we use during our training. Open space activities were also wonderful: a great opportunity to teach and learn from your peers in the supporting environment. I am really grateful for this opportunity to know better about sexual education and discuss how are things going in different countries. Special thanks to Erma for her meditational and art sessions and warm connection we had.
Kate
I had a pleasure
to take part in the reSPECTRUm Erasmus project that went down in beautiful
Pissouri, Cyprus from June 19th to 26th. The main aim was to dive into non-formal education on inclusive sexual
and reproductive health. It was like a perfect blend of serious
learning, hands-on practice. Throughout the week in
Cyprus, I picked up some incredibly valuable skills and tools to address the
sensitive topic of sexual education and reproductive health. These skills
weren't just theoretical; they were practical, hands-on tools that I can use in
my work with young people. Learning these techniques was like unlocking a new
level of effectiveness in my role as a youth worker. One of the most
powerful takeaways from reSPECTRUm was the ability to see things from different perspectives.
Engaging with participants from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences
broadened my horizons in ways I never anticipated. It reinforced the importance
of inclusivity and empathy in my work. Understanding different viewpoints is
essential when dealing with sensitive topics like sexual education, and this
project equipped me with the skills to do just that. So, a big thank
you to everyone involved in making reSPECTRUm happen. It was a truly special
experience that I'll carry with me. Also, this experience has deepened my
passion for youth work.