We reached the culmination of our Youth Green Deal project, funded by Erasmus+. It was time to bring our community together and share our remarkable journey and insights with a wider audience. The “Youth eco-volunteering in a Euro-Mediterranean context: challenges and opportunities” conference took place from June 14 to 17, 2023, in Tunis, Tunisia.

This conference presented a significant opportunity to delve deeper into the world of eco-volunteering and connect with young individuals who shared a fervent commitment to environmental sustainability. We were excited to share our findings, experiences, and accomplishments with a diverse group of participants who were equally passionate about making a positive impact on our environment.

Before we got to the conference details, let’s reflect on the journey that led us here. VSFR had the pleasure of hosting seven young French Corsican volunteers, accompanied by two adults, for a two-week adventure in Chenini-Gabès. This experience was marked by the spirit of discovery, mutual support, and happiness.

During their stay, the young Corsican volunteers, along with their Tunisian counterparts from Chenini, actively participated in various workshops centered on environmental themes. These workshops encompassed an exploration of local biodiversity, the sharing of knowledge on irrigation methods, palm waste composting techniques, and an understanding of climate change’s effects in Tunisia. The first week was a remarkable voyage of discovery and learning.

Of course, it wasn’t all work; the participants had ample time for relaxation and bonding. Beach outings, games, moments of reflection in the tea room, and more provided a well-deserved break from their activities. The program also prioritized intercultural exchange, fostering meaningful discussions, traditional Tunisian dance, sharing pastries, and showcasing the rich musical traditions of both Corsican and Tunisian cultures.

The journey continued with a trip to Djerba, where the group enjoyed the fresh sea breeze aboard pirate ships and basked in the natural beauty of the Pink Flamingo peninsula. Musical entertainment, swimming in the turquoise waters, and the vibrant Djerba atmosphere added immeasurable joy to the experience.

Upon returning to Chenini, the adventure continued with new discoveries. The young participants were introduced to the art of weaving reeds and palm leaves, allowing them to craft practical items such as baskets, hats, and containers. Importantly, the women of Chenini generously shared their invaluable knowledge, creating a bond that transcended cultural and geographical boundaries.

As we prepared for the ‘Youth eco-volunteering in a Euro-Mediterranean context: challenges and opportunities’ conference, we looked forward to reconnecting with our community, sharing our project’s successes and challenges, and engaging in conversations that could shape the future of eco-volunteering in the Euro-Mediterranean region. As part of the conference, we were able to share our Data Report. Because partner organisations continuously collected data, we were able to summarise and quantify the effects of the Green Deal project in this report, which you can read in English or French. We invited everyone to join us in this exciting endeavor and become part of a global movement dedicated to environmental sustainability and positive change. Together, we could make a lasting impact.

This article was written by Julieta Blanco for the ‘Youth eco-volunteering in a Euro-Mediterranean context: challenges and opportunities’ project.