Greece — Margarita-Panagiota Papatheodorou
Testimonianza dal training PASSI (Ercolano, Italia): apprendimento, collaborazione internazionale e consigli ai futuri partecipanti.
What did you learn or discover during the PASSI training that will be most useful in your daily work as a youth worker?
During PASSI training, I learned practical methods for supporting young people with autism, especially in communication, autonomy training and social skills. Activities like: role-play, interviews and coaching showed me how important instructions and step-by-step guidance are. Games such as human bingo and the mug exchange activity also taught me how playful methods can build connections. Also, meeting people on the autism spectrum and watching them complete tasks independently made me understand how valuable opportunities and encouragement are. These tools and activities definitely will be very useful in my work with youth.
How did the international environment and collaboration with other participants influence your learning experience?
The international environment enriched my learning. Working with participants from 6 different countries helped me see multiple approaches to autism support and exchange practices, ideas and techniques. Presentations from each country gave me new perspectives and solutions. Cooperating in mixed teams improved my communication and problem-solving skills. Even simple group moments, like reflection circles, drawing, dancing, helped us connect and learn from one another. The multicultural setting made the experience more creative and impactful.
What message or advice would you give to future participants from your country who will join Erasmus+ projects like PASSI next year?
My advice is to join the program with openness and willingness to participate actively. Ask questions, work with others and try every activity. Moreover, learn from people, from the autistic kids and from the cultural differences around you. Then bring this knowledge back to your country and use it to support inclusion and independence in your community. Finally, Erasmus+ experiences like PASSI training are unique, so enjoy them fully!