Mindful Creations

In this project participants will explore their identities and artistic expressions, examining the link between creativity, mental health, and societal stereotypes. The project promotes open discussions, critical thinking, and communication skills, encouraging personal growth and well-being. Inspired by Kant’s concept of the Sublime, it seeks to engage participants in experiences beyond immediate comprehension, addressing both personal development and social interaction.

They will explore topics as the romanticisation of mental illness in pop culture, such as the “tortured artist” archetype seen in figures like Kurt Cobain, Marilyn Monroe and Mac Miller, contributing to harmful myths. Social media exacerbates these issues by glamorizing suffering and distorting reality. The project aims to shift these narratives by fostering a healthier understanding of mental health. Ultimately, the project aims to raise awareness about mental health complexities, challenge stigmatized portrayals, empower young people to express themselves through art, create a safe space for dialogue and nurture critical thinking.

Participant’s profile:

• 18-25 years old;
• Has Romanian Nationality or Valid Residence Permit in Romania;
• Has interest to the topic of the project;
• Passion for arts, psychology, sociology and philosophy along with abilities in creative thinking and problem-solving;
• Is motivated to participate in this youth exchange;
• Is open to diversity and interculturality;
• Assume that they will share with others the knowledge, attitudes and abilities learned, and that they will be actively involved in all stages of the project.

Group leaders:

• At least 18 years old;
• Have interpersonal and communication skills, team spirit, strategic thinking oriented to results;
• Promote a positive attitude at the group level;
• Have coordination, planning and organization skills;
• Have an advanced level of English;
• Have experience in volunteering, non-formal education and youth;
• Have competences to evaluate the learning process of young people.

In the process of selection will prevail:

• Fitting in the participants’ profile;
• Motivation to participate and the quality of the application;
• Euroactive NGO youth workers and the members of the communities we are activating in have priority;
• Gender balance.

Number: 5 participants + 1 group leader;

The selection results will be sent by email to all candidates at the latest 27.11.2024.

Green travel, which according to Erasmus+ rules refers to traveling primarily by low-emission means such as bus, train, or carpooling instead of flying, is mandatory for all participants.

Costs:

1. The participation costs (accommodation, food, materials etc.) will be covered by the organizers. Also, the transportation will be reimbursed according with the attached Info-pack and Erasmus+ regulations (maximum 285 euro/participant).

2. The selected candidates must advance the amounts necessary to cover the transport costs to the place of the course, using the cheapest means of transportation: flight ticket (economy class, low cost), train ticket (2nd class), bus etc.

3. Travel insurance is mandatory and must be covered from your own expense.

4. An amount of 25 euro will be perceived by the sending organization as a co-financing of the participant to the project (not applied to Euroactive volunteers and young people with fewer opportunities).

Application procedure:

1. Carefully read through the info-pack and participant contract to make sure you understand the project details and requirements.

2. Complete the application form with accurate and complete information. We strongly advise you to fill out the application form by yourself and to be honest and original in your responses. The purpose of the application is to get to know you better and to understand why you are interested in our project. It is important that your application reflects your own thoughts and ideas.

3. Submit your application before the deadline. Please note that late applications may not be considered.

4. After the application deadline has passed, we will notify you of the results by email. Please check your email regularly and also your spam folder in case our email gets filtered there.

5. If you are selected to participate in the project, you will be required to sign the participant contract within 3 days and send it back to us via email. Please read the contract carefully and ensure that you understand and agree to the terms and conditions before signing.

6. You will also need to send a contribution fee of 25 euros to our association account. If you are a young person with fewer opportunities and cannot afford to pay the contribution, please contact us to request an exception. We may require documentation to support your request. Please note that when you sign and submit the participant contract, you will also need to attach proof of payment for the contribution of 25 euros.

7. Once you have completed all the necessary steps, you will be ready to participate in the project. We will provide you with all the additional instructions or guidelines to ensure that you have a successful and enjoyable experience.

Thank you for your interest in our project, and we look forward to hearing from you!

For any questions, do not hesitate to contact us!

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