Implementation

"Coaching as a Skill for Youth Empowerment (COA-SK-YEM)" was an Erasmus+ Training Course held in Parnitha, Athens from 15–24 July 2025, organized by InPlanet (Greece) in partnership with Acpelia (Cyprus). Bringing together youth workers from across Europe, the training focused on developing coaching skills to foster personal and professional growth among young people. Through a rich blend of creative workshops, reflective exercises, embodied practices, and cultural exchanges, participants explored tools like the Wheel of Life, SMART goals, vision boards, and drama-based techniques to empower themselves and others. The project was facilitated by experienced trainers Erma Georgiou and Dimitris Morfis and celebrated the values of inclusion, self-awareness, and cross-cultural learning.

👉 A detailed daily description of the project activities follows below — enriched with plenty of photos capturing the spirit, creativity, and connection of the group.

Implementation of COA-SK

Coaching as skill for Youth Empowerment (COA-SK-YEM), took place in Parnitha, Athens from 15 to 24 of July 2025, by the Inplanet organization in cooperation with Acpelia organization.The trainers were Erma Georgiou and Dimitris Morfis.

Day 1:  Wednesday, 16th of July 2025

Get to Know Each Other
We started the training with a playful and creative portrait game that instantly broke the ice. As the music played, we moved around the room, and every time it stopped, we found ourselves in front of a new sheet of paper with someone's name. Each of us drew a different feature — an eye, a nose, a smile, or even unique accessories — on another participant's portrait. By the end, the final drawings were co-created by many hands, often producing funny, unexpected, and heartwarming results. This activity sparked a lot of laughter, curiosity, and appreciation for one another's individuality, helping us to begin seeing each other through fresh eyes.

One Item, One Story

Afterwards, we sat in a circle, and each shared an object we had brought with us — something meaningful, personal, or symbolic. These small items became powerful storytelling tools, allowing us to open up about our lives, backgrounds, and values. Through the stories behind each object, we discovered connections we didn't expect, finding common experiences and learning about the diversity in the group.

Backpack Activity

In the third session, we participated in the Backpack Activity. Each of us reflected on and shared the fears we carried with us, the expectations we held for the week, and what we hoped to contribute to the group. This activity created a space of honesty and vulnerability from the very beginning, fostering trust and connection. It allowed us to metaphorically "unpack" what might weigh us down and make room for shared growth during the project.

Setting Group Agreements
Once the foundations of trust were laid, we co-created our group agreements — a living set of shared values and guidelines to ensure our space remained safe, respectful, and inclusive. We also divided daily responsibilities by country teams: some groups would take photos, others would create reels or short videos, write the daily reports, prepare energizers, and more. This collective effort not only kept the experience alive and well-documented but also gave everyone a sense of shared ownership over the project.

YouthPass Island Game

Later, we played the YouthPass Island game, an experiential activity designed to explore the 8 Key Competences in a fun and engaging way. As we "traveled" from island to island through challenges and discussions, we reflected on our personal learning goals and how we could track and document them throughout the week. It was both playful and insightful, encouraging us to see our learning in a broader context.

Exploring Identity

In the final part of the day, we turned inward and explored the theme of identity. Each person created a visual expression of how they see themselves using drawing, colors, and symbols. This creative process helped participants reflect on their personal journeys, values, and uniqueness.

Circle Pairing Activity

We closed the day with a powerful circle-pairing activity: standing face-to-face with rotating partners, we answered deep questions about who we are, what has shaped us, and how we connect with others. The exercise left the group feeling even more connected and grounded as we moved forward together.

Day 2, Thursday 17th of July, 2025

Introduction to Life Coaching
The day began with a deep dive into what life coaching truly is and how it differs from the roles of a psychologist, consultant, or mentor. We learned that coaching focuses on the present and future, helping individuals become the experts of their own lives. A key concept introduced was the formula Event + Response = Outcome,a simple yet powerful reminder that while the events around us are often out of our control, our response to them is entirely within our power. By shifting our reactions and making conscious choices, we can change the outcome of any situation. Participants explored real-life examples of this principle, reflecting on times when a change in perspective or behavior led to a completely different result. This concept set the tone for the day, showing how coaching can help individuals break old patterns and create new possibilities in their lives.

Wheel of Life Exercise

Next, we explored the Wheel of Life, a tool that helps us assess how satisfied we are in different areas of life. We looked at categories such as family and friends, physical environment, fun and recreation, personal growth, financial growth, and health. By rating these areas, we were able to identify where we want to focus our energy moving forward.

Setting S.M.A.R.T Goals
Building on the clarity gained from the Wheel of Life, we learned how to set goals using the S.M.A.R.T framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Each participant set personal goals for the coming months, ensuring they aligned with their values and priorities.

• -SPECIFIC (to be precise),
• -MEASURABLE (to keep track of),
• -ACHIEVABLE (realistic given time and resources),
• -RELEVANT (aligns with your core values),
• -TIME (time bound with a clear deadline).

Setting up our own goals, we went to have accountability partners in the afternoon.

Accountability Partners

In the afternoon, we paired up with accountability partners. These partners will help us stay on track with our goals by providing reminders, asking questions, and offering support tailored to our individual needs.

Vision Board Creation
The final activity of the day was the creation of vision boards. Using magazine cutouts, images, and words, we designed boards that visually represent our dreams and aspirations for 2025 and beyond. Each board reflected unique goals, whether they centered around family, travel, personal development, or material ambitions. This creative process gave us a tangible and inspiring reminder of the future we want to create.

Culture Night – Spain, Portugal & Greece

The evening of Day 2 was dedicated to celebrating the cultures of Spain, Portugal, and Greece. Each country beautifully presented their traditions, music, and flavors, turning the night into a vibrant cultural exchange.

Spain brought a lot of energy and fun with a lively game where participants had to run and find pieces of paper with the correct answers. The game sparked laughter and teamwork, setting the perfect tone for the evening.

All three countries prepared tables filled with delicious food and snacks that showcased their unique cuisines. From Spanish treats to Portuguese specialties and traditional Greek bites, participants got to enjoy a variety of flavors while learning more about each culture.

The night was filled with laughter, music, and connection as participants experienced the richness and diversity of the three countries, making it a memorable part of the program.

DAY 3, Friday 18th of July, 2025

The SAVERS Method
Following the meditation, we introduced to the SAVERS method, a powerful daily routine designed to create a balanced and intentional life. SAVERS stands for Silence, Affirmation, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, and Scribing. We explored how incorporating each of these elements into our mornings can positively shape the rest of the day, and participants reflected on which practices they would like to adopt in their own lives.

Reflection Questions & Limiting Beliefs
Later, we learned about the power of reflection questions as a tool for self-awareness and personal growth. We also explored the concept of limiting beliefs—the unconscious thoughts and assumptions that hold us back from reaching our full potential. Through discussions and examples, we began to identify some of these beliefs in ourselves and consider how to transform them.

The House of Values (DBT House)
After lunch, we engaged in one of the most meaningful activities of the day: The House of Values. Each participant drew a house and divided it into different sections, filling each one with values that guide their lives. On the roof, we wrote the people and things that protect us, while on the chimney we noted the activities that help us release stress. We reflected on why life is worth living, the sources of our happiness, the emotions we want to experience more often, and the behaviors we are striving to gain control over. This exercise gave us a clearer picture of what truly matters to us and how we want to live in alignment with our values.

Clay Workshop & Reflection

After a short break, it was time to get creative. They were each given clay and invited to close their eyes while we worked. We were asked to think about a difficult situation or a limiting belief in our lives and let our hands shape it without looking. This allowed participants to connect with their feelings and express them in a more intuitive way.

When they felt that their sculptures were complete, we opened our eyes and took a moment to reflect on questions like "How did it feel to give it shape with my hands?" and "What does this creation tell me about my belief or situation?" . Because the clay represented their limiting belief or challenge, we were given the choice to either keep it as it was, destroy it, or reshape it into something new. This was a powerful moment of reflection and choice.

The activity was both therapeutic and liberating, helping us see our challenges from a different perspective and reminding us that we have the power to change the way we hold onto them.

Culture Night – North Macedonia, France-Algeria & Lithuania

The second Culture Night was another wonderful celebration of diversity, this time featuring North Macedonia, France, Algeria, and Lithuania. Each country shared their unique traditions, history, and fun facts, creating a warm and engaging evening.

Lithuania brought a playful spirit by organizing a mini game where participants had to work in teams to create words, sparking laughter and friendly competition. They also taught everyone some traditional Lithuanian dances, which quickly filled the room with energy and joy.

The countries also delighted the group with traditional food and snacks, giving everyone a taste of their authentic cuisines. One participant shared a heartfelt presentation about Algeria, her home country, offering a special glimpse into its culture and traditions.

The night ended with everyone dancing, enjoying the music, and connecting over the richness of the cultures presented, making it an unforgettable part of the program.

Day 4 – Saturday 19th of July 2025

Free Day in Athens

The fourth day was a free day, and everyone could decide where they wanted to go. Most participants chose to visit the center of Athens, one of the most historic cities in the world. The main highlight of the day was visiting the Parthenon, the famous ancient temple built over 2,400 years ago on the Acropolis hill. The Parthenon was dedicated to the goddess Athena, the protector of the city, and is one of the most important symbols of ancient Greek culture and architecture. Walking among the ruins and seeing the grand columns up close was an unforgettable experience.

Many participants also spent time at the Acropolis Museum, where they admired statues, carvings, and other treasures from ancient Greece. They learned how the Acropolis was the heart of the city in ancient times and how it still inspires people today. Later, everyone enjoyed strolling through the lively streets of Athens, tasting local food, and relaxing while admiring the view of the illuminated Acropolis at night. It was a beautiful and relaxing day, full of culture, history, and shared moments.

Day 5 – Sunday 20th of July, 2025

Morning Body Movement and Wounded Archetypes

The morning started with a body movement exercise focused on exploring wounded archetypes related to money. Participants were invited to embody and move as different archetypes that reflect common money-related feelings or struggles—such as fear, scarcity, or control. They thought deeply about how these archetypes feel, act, and carry themselves, walking in their shoes both physically and emotionally. This activity helped bring awareness to unconscious patterns and emotional blocks around money, allowing participants to connect with these parts of themselves in a safe and creative way.

Limiting Beliefs about Money

Following this, participants reflected on and answered a series of questions associated with the word "money." Together, they concluded that money itself is energy, and what truly matters is how each person manages and relates to it. They recognized that responsibility lies with the individual, not with money itself. In small groups of five, participants identified three common limiting beliefs they hold about money. The whole group then discussed where these beliefs might come from, diving into the origins of these mental blocks. We also explained the three trauma responses—freeze, flight, and fight—and how these reactions often influence financial beliefs and behaviors.

Drawing Mr. Money: Appearance, Values, and Relationship

Later, participants engaged in a thoughtful drawing activity centered around "Mr. Money." They were asked not only to imagine how Mr. Money looks—his size, shape, colors, and expressions—but also to reflect on the qualities and values that Mr. Money represents in their lives. Participants considered the kind of relationship they want to have with money: Is it one of fear, control, freedom, or partnership? Through drawing, they expressed these feelings visually, giving form to their inner attitudes toward money. This deeper reflection allowed them to externalize and better understand their money story, which then sparked rich discussions in small groups when participants shared their drawings and personal meanings.

Archetype Body Movement and Future Self Visualization

In the afternoon, participants took part in a second body movement exercise, this time connecting with one of four positive archetypes: King/Queen, Warrior, Lover, or Magician. This activity was designed to help them tap into empowering qualities and strengths. Participants reflected on which archetype they felt most connected to, using this insight as a foundation for the next and final activity of the day.

Building on this embodiment, they then imagined themselves five years into the future, considering the changes and growth they wanted to experience. The entire sequence—from moving as their chosen archetype to envisioning their future selves—was a complete process meant to inspire confidence, clarity, and motivation for personal development.

"Me in 5 Years" Future Self Visualization and Presentation

For the final activity of the day, participants were guided to imagine themselves five years from now. After reflecting on their strengths and qualities through the previous archetype body movement, they took some time to prepare a vision of who they want to become.

Next, they attended an imaginary networking party where they introduced their future selves to others, sharing their stories, achievements, and personal growth. Each participant then gave a brief public presentation, speaking through a microphone and describing the positive changes they envisioned—such as new skills, relationships, or accomplishments.

This creative exercise allowed participants to connect deeply with their goals and aspirations, making their future more vivid and motivating. It was a powerful way to practice self-expression and envision a path forward with confidence and hope.

Day 6: Monday 21st of July 2025

Yoga Laugh Session

We started the session with a series of simple breathing and stretching exercises to relax the body and create presence. Gradually, we introduced playful laughter exercises, using eye contact and group interaction to encourage natural, contagious laughter. The combination of movement, breathing, and laughter helped participants release tension, boost energy, and connect with one another in a joyful way.

The session ended with a short relaxation and grounding exercise, allowing participants to integrate the positive emotions and sense of connection.

Laughter yoga promotes physical and emotional wellbeing by reducing stress, improving mood, and strengthening social bonds. In the context of coaching, this practice supports openness, creativity, and connection within groups. It also helps participants develop resilience and the ability to shift their emotional state — valuable skills for both personal growth and teamwork.

Visit by a Guest Life Coach, Maria-Lemonia

We had the opportunity to welcome Maria Lemonia, an experienced coach, who shared her inspiring personal journey with us. Maria spoke about how coaching became a transformative path in her life and how it gave her the courage to follow her biggest dream — to travel around Greece with her car for 99 days. She openly shared the challenges she faced during this journey up to this point (she is now at the half of this journey), from moments of uncertainty to practical obstacles, and how each difficulty became a lesson in resilience and self-trust. Maria also reflected on the invaluable takeaways from this experience: the importance of stepping outside our comfort zone, staying true to our values, and trusting the process even when the path isn't clear. Her story left participants feeling motivated to embrace their own dreams and see challenges as opportunities for growth.

Entering Dramatic Reality Through Back

We separated the participants into pairs, assigning one person as the Traveler and the other as the Companion. Each Traveler first reflected and wrote about a personal question or challenge they are currently facing. Then, leaning their backs against a wall or another surface, they closed their eyes and were guided by the facilitator into an imaginary place, step by step.

Once the Traveler had a clear sense of the space, the Companion continued the process by asking sensory questions (e.g. "What do you see? What sounds do you hear?") to help them explore this "dramatic reality." Eventually, Travelers opened their eyes and walked through the space with their Companion, still staying connected to the imagined landscape.

After some time, Companions helped Travelers return to the starting point and reflect on their experience. Pairs then swapped roles so that everyone experienced being both Traveler and Companion. Finally, we debriefed in small groups and as a whole group about insights, emotions, and connections to their personal question.

Dramatic reality is a symbolic, imaginative space where participants can explore their inner world and challenges with aesthetic distance,a bit like how dreams work. This method allows participants to see situations from new angles and unlock different perspectives.

In coaching, this activity helps clients deepen self-awareness, connect with intuition, and find creative solutions. It also strengthens active listening, presence, and the ability to hold space, all essential coaching skills.

Culture Night – Hungary & Romania

The next Culture Night was dedicated to Hungary and Romania. Participants from both countries shared their traditions, interesting facts, and unique cultural elements that gave everyone a closer look into their heritage. The evening was filled with laughter and curiosity as they presented stories and customs from their homelands. Of course, there were also tables filled with traditional dishes and snacks that everyone enjoyed tasting together. It was a warm and lively night that strengthened the bonds within the group.

Day 7: Tuesday 22nd of July 2025

British Drama Game

We played the British Drama Game designed to explore emotions and practice spontaneous expression. One participant would step into the middle of the circle and "become" a specific emotion (e.g., anger, joy, sadness, fear). While embodying that emotion through posture, facial expression, and tone of voice, the other participants took turns asking them questions. The person in the middle had to answer as the emotion they were portraying.

This activity not only encouraged creativity and empathy but also helped participants better understand how emotions influence communication and behavior. By embodying emotions fully, they became more aware of subtle physical and verbal cues, which is an essential skill in coaching. It also encouraged active listening and emotional intelligence, allowing participants to connect with others' experiences on a deeper level.

Create Your Own Activity

In this session, participants learned how to design and facilitate their own activities. We first explained the key elements of creating an activity: defining the aim and objectives, considering the target group and their needs, clarifying the desired outcomes, and determining the timeframe and available resources. We also discussed how to ensure that activities are engaging, inclusive, and connected to the wider goals of a program.

After the explanation, participants were divided into five groups. Each group was given time to prepare an original activity, thinking carefully about all the elements they had just learned. When ready, the groups took turns facilitating their activity for the rest of the participants. Each team had 15 minutes to run their activity, after which we provided constructive feedback focusing on strengths, clarity, timing, group management, and possible improvements.

This session helped participants understand the full process of activity design and gave them hands-on experience as facilitators. It also strengthened teamwork, creativity, and confidence in leading groups, key skills for future projects.

Culture Night – Cyprus

The final Culture Night was all about Cyprus. Participants had the chance to discover the island's traditions, music, and joyful spirit. The evening ended on a high note as everyone came together to sing and dance to the traditional Cypriot song "Tillirkotissa".The energy and connection during this moment were unforgettable, making it the perfect way to close the series of Culture Nights and celebrate the diversity of the group one last time.At that night,we also celebrated the birthday of the cypriot participant ( Boghos Avetikian).

Day 8: Wednesday 23th of July of 2025

Erasmus + Opportunities

Boghos Avetikian (member of Acpelia) explained how Erasmus+ supports young people, youth workers, and organizations in areas such as education, training, volunteering, and youth exchanges across Europe.

Boghos shared detailed information about the different types of projects available, including Youth Exchanges, Training Courses, and the European Solidarity Corps, highlighting the benefits of each. He also discussed how participants can apply for these opportunities, the skills and experiences they can gain, and how involvement in Erasmus+ projects can foster personal growth, cultural awareness, and stronger career prospects.

The session ended with an open discussion where participants could ask questions and explore how they might take part in future projects or even develop initiatives of their own. This presentation inspired participants to consider Erasmus+ as a powerful tool for learning, networking, and making a positive impact on their communities.

Open Space

We facilitated an Open Space Activity, giving participants the freedom to explore and express themselves in ways that felt most meaningful to them. Different "corners" or stations were set up around the room, each offering a creative or reflective option. Examples included a writing corner for journaling or poetry, a dancing and movement space, a drawing/art area, and a quiet zone for meditation or relaxation.

Participants were invited to move freely between the spaces, choosing the activities that best suited their mood and energy. This format encouraged self-expression, autonomy, and connection with their inner needs, while also allowing them to share the space with others in a natural and organic way.

Dissemination Activity

We also had the chance to take part in a dissemination activity led by InPlanet, where they shared highlights from some of their most important projects of the year. The session gave participants insight into the impact these initiatives have had on local communities and international partners.

Through engaging presentations, photos, and short stories, InPlanet showcased the objectives, key outcomes, and lessons learned from their work. This included examples of successful Erasmus+ projects, sustainability initiatives, and innovative programs focused on youth empowerment.

Evaluation of the Training

After the dissemination activity by InPlanet, we invited participants to reflect on how they could build on what they had learned during the training. We discussed possible follow-up activities they could implement in their own organizations or communities, emphasizing the importance of multiplying the impact of the training and sharing the knowledge gained.

Participants then completed the evaluation of the training, providing feedback on the content, methods, and overall experience. This final reflection allowed us to celebrate the learning journey together, identify key takeaways, and gather valuable insights for improving future programs.

YouthPass Certificate Ceremony

To close the training on a celebratory note, we held the YouthPass certificate ceremony. Each participant received their YouthPass, a recognition of the competences they developed throughout the program. This final activity created a warm and uplifting atmosphere, allowing participants to acknowledge their growth, celebrate their achievements, and say goodbye to one another with a strong sense of community and accomplishment.