FARM NOT HARM: Youth Exchange
April 13-22, 2026 đź“ŤWielgolas, Poland
This project was hosted on a farm in Poland, bringing together young people from Slovakia, Poland, Ukraine, Lithuania, Hungary, and Czechia to explore sustainability, agriculture, and cross-cultural collaboration. The farm setting itself offered a unique experience, living close to nature, interacting daily with animals, and engaging in hands-on activities gave us a deeper understanding of what it truly means to live more sustainably.
The program was diverse and interactive. One of the standout activities was a Treasure Hunt, where we completed various tasks and side "quests," which really fostered teamwork and creativity. Education was also a major focus, we discussed sustainability, analyzed our daily habits, and brainstormed solutions to environmental issues through workshops and group activities. These included designing a sustainable restaurant and solving hypothetical agricultural crises.
Both national and international collaboration played a crucial role in the project. Participants worked in mixed teams, sharing their respective countries' agricultural experiences and co-creating solutions to various challenges. Each national group prepared its own workshop, contributing to a rich exchange of knowledge and practical skills—ranging from recycling, upcycling, and farming quizzes to creating art from natural materials.
Cultural evenings were an integral part of the program, giving us the chance to showcase our traditions, food, and customs. These nights deepened our mutual understanding, broke down barriers, and forged strong, lasting friendships among the participants.
Beyond the educational activities, we rolled up our sleeves for practical farm chores, such as:
planting raspberries,
collecting eggs,
chopping wood,
cleaning out the chicken coops.
However, we also made sure to leave space for rest and reflection through mindfulness activities, like silent walks and meditation.
Ultimately, this experience taught us that living sustainably requires cooperation, open-mindedness, and a willingness to change our habits.
"The Farm not Harm project showed us that sustainability is not just a theory, but a way of life."
