Youth exchange “Step Up, Step Out”
Exchange Week in November 2024, Gasbu Norway
The "Step Up, Step Out" project is a youth exchange initiative under the Erasmus+ framework, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and intercultural understanding through dance. Bringing together 50 young participants aged 18-30 from Germany, Norway, Turkey, Spain, and Romania, the project focused on combating sedentary lifestyles and fostering cultural exchange.
The objective.
The project sought to raise awareness about the importance
of physical activity, equip participants with life skills like teamwork and leadership, and empower them to become advocates for healthy living within their communities. Additionally, it aimed to build a robust international cooperation network among youth organizations.
Main activities
Participants engaged in dynamic workshops covering various dance styles, such as Zumba, dancehall, traditional, and contemporary dance. These workshops not only improved their physical health but also allowed them to explore creative expression. The project also featured cultural evenings where participants shared their traditions, breaking stereotypes and promoting mutual respect.



Sustainability
Participants gained confidence, enhanced their physical fitness, and developed intercultural understanding. The project achieved significant outreach through local events and social media, inspiring over 10,000 people globally to adopt active lifestyles. Moreover, a sustainable network of 36 entities was established, ensuring long-term collaboration and impact. "Step Up, Step Out" exemplifies how creative approaches like dance can address health and social challenges, foster inclusion, and promote European values. It serves as a model for youth engagement, proving the power of cultural exchange and collective action in driving meaningful change.