I CAN – The Butterfly Effect – Youth Exchange
I CAN – The Butterfly Effect: A Story About Empowerment and the Power of “I CAN”
“I CAN – The Butterfly Effect” was more than just a youth exchange; it was the first step towards a global movement that centers on creative teaching methods and the power of young people to take action and make a difference.
Building on the methodology they were already familiar with, Design for Change (DfC), the participants took on the role of being the nucleus of change. They engaged in open discussions about how they could positively influence the communities they come from, regardless of the scale of their actions.
The first days of the exchange were dedicated to getting to know each other through various activities that helped them learn more about the cultures and customs of the other participating countries, as well as how the DfC methodology had already made a difference in their local communities.
“The Design for Change experience was a very beautiful and interactive experience for me, where I met many children from different countries, improved my language skills, and learned how to make friends more easily,” shared a participant from Romania.
This was followed by practical sessions where the young participants applied the methodology, experiencing the FIDS process: Feel, Imagine, Do, Share.
They felt the issues in the community they were in, imagined the solutions they could use to solve them, and finally took action by implementing the solutions they found and sharing the results with others.
“I think the FIDS methodology is so important because it gives more and more to children, such as confidence in ourselves, the belief that we can change the world, and that is such a beautiful thing. It made me so happy,” shared a participant from Turkey.
Creative ideas quickly emerged:
- A prototype of a fountain perfect for summer days
- A digital map to assist with navigation
- Special ashtrays attached to trash bins
- A campaign focused on raising awareness about plastic waste
“I realized that if you have courage, things will turn out well; it’s not that hard.”
By the end of the week, the young participants not only expanded their knowledge but also left with a strong sense of empowerment.
“I was already familiar with the Design for Change methodology, so being here and meeting people from other countries significantly enhanced my experience and knowledge, especially through the use of the FIDS methodology. I believe the I CAN mindset is truly important because we grow up thinking that we can’t do certain things, wondering what will happen if we fail. In school, most of the time, if you can’t do something, it’s not the teacher’s fault, it’s yours. But I think the I CAN methodology really helps you to do things and to believe in yourself,” shared a participant from Turkey.
They created memories, forged friendships, and shared experiences, all of which contributed to a shift in perspective and reinforced their confidence in their ability to change their communities, step by step.
“The youth exchange was truly extraordinary and a new experience for all of us. I found it amazing; we had the chance to meet new people, make new friends, do new things, go to a new place, and live experiences we wouldn’t have had if we hadn’t come,” said a participant from Ireland.
“It was fun, it was a wonderful opportunity, and I would definitely participate again if I had the chance,” added another participant from Ireland.
