Giulia Lana, an 18-year-old from Sicily, took part in two Erasmus+ trainings this year within the STAR project: Educational Walking Tours in Serbia and Digital Storytelling in Jordan. She shared how these experiences changed her life and reflected on her journeys in both countries.
“When I first saw the Educational Walking Tours project in Serbia, I was immediately drawn to it. The idea of a walk being educational really caught my attention, and that’s exactly what I discovered during the training in Serbia. The experience opened my eyes to how much you can learn just by exploring a place. I learned so much, not only about communities in other countries but also about finding opportunities in my own. This was my first Erasmus program, and it taught me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone. I realized that everything around us can be a source of learning—you just have to be open to it. Coming from a small town in Sicily where tourism and the economy aren’t strong, I started to see how activities like walking could be educational here too. An immersive tour could help people learn about our local food, culture, artisans, and everyday life. I was so enthusiastic about the project! For example, a bike tour might be another exciting idea. Each participant also bought something from their culture, and we learned a lot from one another.”
She shares that she’s still in touch with the participants from Serbia: “We talk a lot, share our cultures, and exchange stories. Maybe we’ll even meet again in the future. I hope that one day I can visit them in their countries.”
The STAR training in Serbia opened the door for another opportunity in Jordan. “I met some amazing Jordanian people during the project in Serbia, and they invited me to join their project in Jordan. When I saw the topic, I thought, ‘This is my project!’ It interested me so much because I study political science and international relations—it felt like a perfect fit. Once I arrived, I realized that Jordan is a country very different from mine, yet in many ways, it felt familiar. I felt at home. The people in Jordan were incredibly hospitable, cooking wonderful food and making us feel so welcome. Through the project, I learned the art of storytelling and how to write in digital formats. I even made a short film about femicide to show other women that they’re not alone and that they have our support. I was the filmmaker—it’s such a powerful way to share a story and send a message. Plus, I was the youngest participant there, which helped me realize that age doesn’t matter; you can always learn in a diverse group. If you’re the youngest, you can gain so much from others, and even the oldest person has something to learn from the youngest.
Before I went to Jordan, everyone told me, “Please don’t go; it’s very dangerous.” I just replied, “I know.” Yes, it can be dangerous, but that’s life. In fact, three days after I left, there was an attack from Iran, and I realized it could have affected me if I’d still been there. But these things can happen anywhere, even in my own city. Just because you’re in a conflict area doesn’t mean you’re constantly in danger. You can stay safe, and simply being there can mean a lot to people. You can spend time together, talk, exchange cultures, and take a break from the worries of war. I think anyone who has the chance should go.
In Jordan, I discovered a part of myself I hadn’t known before. It was truly challenging to be there, living so close to a conflict. I could see the rockets, feel the tension, and experience what it was like to be right next to the war. I felt like a local, understanding the emotions of those around me. Many people there have family in Palestine, and you could sense the impact of that—see it on their faces, feel it in their emotions. Being in Jordan was the most emotional experience of my life, living with their culture, their people, and seeing the reality of war from my window.”
Giulia also has a message for any young person considering volunteering with SCI:
“Do it! Leave home, go somewhere new, and step out of your comfort zone. Discover the world! What excites me in life is trying things that are bigger than me. It’s the only way I can learn about myself and others. My favorite Italian quote is Chi non si muove non può rendersi conto delle proprie catene—those who do not move do not notice their chains.”
About STAR
The STAR project (Story Tours Alternative Routes) is a 30-month initiative uniting six youth organizations from Europe, the Balkans, and the MENA region. It aims to foster collaboration and enhance capacity-building in the youth sector through the unique approach of educational walking tours. These tours serve as a platform for young people to develop personal and professional skills, engage with diverse cultural topics, and strengthen their sense of agency.
In today’s digital world, youth organizations need innovative strategies to boost engagement and inclusion. STAR empowers youth by providing tools for self-development, enhancing communication skills, and promoting active citizenship. Additionally, walking tours help participants build intercultural competence, improve mental and physical well-being, and develop leadership skills.
Aligned with the European Year of Youth 2022 and the European Year of Skills 2023-2024, the project focuses on digital skill development and preparing young people for community leadership roles, supporting their growth as active agents of change.
Stay tuned!