Looking back on Climate Chain in Sicily

From 6 to 15 May 2026, Bildung Nijmegen travelled to Riposto, near Catania in Sicily, with five young people and one team leader for the Erasmus+ youth exchange Climate Chain: Empowering Young People for Environmental Sustainability. The project was hosted by InformaGiovani and brought together young people from different European countries to explore climate, sustainability and the role young people can play in creating change.

The programme focused on themes that are often discussed on a big scale, but were brought very close to daily life. Participants explored topics such as fast fashion, food, transport, digital consumption and the impact of everyday choices on people and the environment. They also reflected on how climate change is connected to social justice, global responsibility and the lives of communities that are often affected the most.

But Climate Chain was not only about workshops and discussions. It was also about living together, meeting new people, sharing stories and learning from each other in a very direct and human way. In just a few days, young people from different countries built connections, worked together, laughed together and experienced what intercultural learning can really mean.

For Rozarie, one of the participants, the people she met made a lasting impression:

“I am so grateful for everyone I met in Sicily. It is amazing how people you have only known for a short time can still have such a big impact. This is truly an experience I will never forget. - Rozarie, participant

This is what makes Erasmus+ youth exchanges so valuable. Young people step out of their familiar surroundings and enter a space where learning happens through experience. Around the table, during group activities, in small conversations, through new friendships and sometimes simply by seeing the world from another perspective.

Ramon Rahangmetan joined the project as team leader on behalf of Bildung Nijmegen. He supported the Dutch group, stayed in close contact with the host organisation and helped create a safe, open and positive atmosphere throughout the exchange.

“As a team leader, your main role is to support the participants, work closely with the host organisation and help with practical and administrative matters. At the same time, you try to make sure the group can really experience the unique culture, nature and community spirit of Sicily together.” - Ramon Rahangmetan, team leader

We look back on this youth exchange with a lot of gratitude. Thank you to InformaGiovani for hosting the project, and to all participants for bringing their openness, energy and ideas.

For Bildung Nijmegen, Climate Chain once again showed why international youth work matters. Sometimes a short experience is enough to meet new people, see the world differently and take something home that stays with you for a long time.