Youth for development and sustainable goals - Bulgaria

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Youth for development and sustainable goals - Bulgaria

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We are a foundation that strives to bring positive changes.

Our aim is to support the development of young people, helping them embark on the path of success and build a more sustainable and prosperous future.🌏 #МладежиЗаРазвитиеиУстойчивиЦели The foundation „Youth for Development and Sustainable Goals” (further referred to as “YDSG” was established in 2023 in Varna, Bulgaria by youth leaders with experience in the field of non-formal education and project management. The organisation's mission is to empower people, professional youth workers, trainers and civil society activists by giving them the opportunity for personal and professional development through non-formal learning activities. The organization aims to promote active participation, youth initiatives, volunteering and inclusion of people with fewer opportunities for building a better society. YDSG gives opportunities to people to be engaged in diverse activities to develop their skills and potential. Furthermore, the NGO offers people the chance to express themselves, be active within society and learn differently through non-formal educational practice. We believe that if young people are empowered, they can make sustainable changes in the world, focusing first on the local communities. YDSG works to:
- contribute to environmentally-friendly practices of individuals, consumers, organizations and government
- raise awareness of the SDGs framework, as well as the concepts of circular economy, biodiversity, and permaculture, among others
- empower different stakeholders to take climate action
- represent the voice of youth on social and environmental issues in front of decision-makers
- promote the ideas of green entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship and innovation amongst the European youth
- equip disadvantaged groups of people with digital skills essential for the 21st century
- develop and promote the fundamental values of democracy and European citizenship
- advance gender equality
- encourage healthy lifestyles among youth
- develop an understanding of human rights
- promote non-formal education and training
- increase international understanding and cooperation
- support the social inclusion of young people with fewer opportunities
- promote active participation and volunteering
- assist and support youth initiatives on the local national and international level

Our organization is aimed towards all young people in Bulgaria and Europe. Through the methodology of non-formal education, we support the development of civil society, active participation of young people, youth entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship as well as stimulating various civic initiatives. Climate action
- contribute to environmentally-friendly practices of individuals, consumers, organizations and government
- raise awareness of the SDGs framework, as well as the concepts of circular economy, biodiversity, and permaculture, among others
- empower different stakeholders to take climate action
- represent the voice of youth on social and environmental issues in front of decision-makers
Entrepreneurship
- promote the ideas of green entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship and innovation amongst the European youth
Digitalisation and innovation
- equip disadvantaged groups of people with digital skills essential for the 21st century
Society
- develop and promote the fundamental values of democracy and European citizenship
- advance gender equality
- encourage healthy lifestyles among youth
- develop an understanding of human rights
- promote non-formal education and training
- increase international understanding and cooperation
- support the social inclusion of young people with fewer opportunities
- promote active participation and volunteering
- assist and support youth initiatives on the local national and international level

Фондацията „Младежи за развитие и устойчиви цели" е установена през 2023 г. във Варна, България от младежки лидери с опит в областта на неформалното образование и управлението на проекти. Мисията на организацията е да вдъхнови хора, професионалнo работещите с младежта, треньори и активисти от гражданското общество, като им предостави възможност за личностно и професионално развитие чрез неформални учебни дейности. Организацията има за цел да насърчава активното участие, младежките инициативи, доброволчеството и включването на хора с по-малко възможности за изграждане на по-добро общество. „Младежи за развитие и устойчиви цели" предоставя възможности на хората да участват в разнообразни дейности, за да развият своите умения и потенциал. Освен това, НПО-то предоставя на хората възможност да изразяват себе си, да бъдат активни в обществото и да учат по различен начин чрез неформална образователна практика. Ние вярваме, че ако младите хора бъдат упълномощени, те могат да направят устойчиви промени в света, фокусирайки се първо върху местните общности. „Младежи за развитие и устойчиви цели" работи за:
- принос към екологично насочените практики на индивиди, потребители, организации и правителството
- повишаване на осведомеността за рамката на Целите за устойчиво развитие, както и за концепциите на циркулярната икономика, биоразнообразието
- упълномощаване на различни заинтересовани страни да предприемат действия относно климата
- представляване на гласа на младежта по социални и екологични въпроси пред вземащите решения
- насърчаване на идеите за зелено предприемачество, социално предприемачество и иновации сред европейската младеж
- осигуряване на дигитални умения, от съществено значение за 21 век, на групи с по-малко възможности
- развитие и насърчаване на основните ценности на демокрацията и европейското гражданство
- напредък в равенството между половете
- насърчаване на здравословния начин на живот сред младежта
- насърчаване на равенството между половете
- насърчаване на неформалното образование и обучение
- увеличаване на международното разбирателство и сътрудничество
- насърчаване на активното участие и доброволчеството
- помощ и подкрепа на младежки инициативи на местно, национално и международно ниво
Нашата организация е насочена към всички младежи в България и Европа. Чрез методологията на неформалното образование подпомагаме развитието на гражданското общество, активното участие на младежта, младежкото предприемачество и социалното предприемачество, както и стимулирането на различни граждански инициативи.
Климатични действия
- Съдействие за екологично насочените практики на индивиди, потребители, организации и правителство
- Повишаване на осведомеността за рамката на Целите за устойчиво развитие, както и за концепциите на кръгова икономика, биоразнообразие и пермакултура, сред другото
- Осигуряване на вдъхновение на различни заинтересовани страни да предприемат действия относно климата
- Представляване на гласа на младежта по социални и екологични въпроси пред вземащите решения
Предприемачество
- Насърчаване на идеите за зелено предприемачество, социално предприемачество и иновации сред европейската младеж
Цифровизация и иновации
- Осигуряване на дигитални умения, от съществено значение за 21 век, на групи с по-малко възможности
Общество
- Развитие и насърчаване на основните ценности на демокрацията и европейското гражданство
- Напредък в равенството между половете
- Насърчаване на здравословния начин на живот сред младежта
- Насърчаване на равенството между половете
- Насърчаване на неформалното образование и обучение
- Увеличаване на международното разбирателство и сътрудничество
- Насърчаване на активното участие и доброволчеството
- Помощ и подкрепа на младежки инициативи на местно, национално и международно ниво

23/09/2026

📍PESHA FEST 2026

Yesterday, we joined ПЕША ФЕСТ in Varna, where the city centre was transformed into a space for sustainable mobility, activities and conversations. 🚶‍♀️🚲

Together with Eco Cluster Bulgaria, we came with our own small mission ♻️ talking with visitors about recycling and collecting empty cans. Thanks to a cooperation organized by Eco Cluster with a local recycling company, the cans we collected will now be taken for recycling. 🥫💚

We are happy to be part of the Eco Cluster Bulgaria network and to support initiatives that bring sustainability into public spaces and everyday life.

Learn more about Eco Cluster Bulgaria here:
https://ecocluster.bg/

18/09/2026

🌍 Call for Bulgarian Participants for Erasmus+ Training Course in Turkey – "Differences Build the Strongest Bridges"

Are you a teacher, youth worker, trainer, volunteer, NGO member, or simply someone who wants to develop their skills in social inclusion, peace education, and intercultural learning? If you are 18+ years old, this opportunity is for you!

📅 Dates: 8–15 October 2026
📍 Location: Bitlis & Ahlat, Türkiye (Accommodation at Ahlat Youth Camp)
🇪🇺 Programme: Erasmus+ Training Course funded by the European Union

🌱 About the Project

"Differences Build the Strongest Bridges" is an international training course that brings together participants from different countries to explore practical methods for promoting non-discrimination, conflict transformation, intercultural dialogue, and storytelling.

Through interactive workshops, group activities, and international exchange, you will gain practical tools to:

Promote equality and inclusion in your community.
Support young people from diverse backgrounds.
Strengthen your facilitation and communication skills.
Build meaningful international partnerships and friendships.

👥 Who Can Apply?

We are looking for Bulgarian participants who are:

✅ 18 years or older
✅ Teachers, educators, youth workers, trainers, volunteers, NGO members, or anyone interested in developing competences in youth work and non-formal education.
✅ Motivated to learn, share experiences, and work in an international environment.
✅ Open-minded and eager to contribute to inclusive communities.
💶 Costs & Support

✔️ Accommodation, meals, and programme activities are fully covered.
✔️ Travel costs are reimbursed according to the Erasmus+ rules.
✔️ All participants will receive an official Youthpass Certificate recognising their learning outcomes.
✔️ A fee covering administrative costs / donation to the foundation is €30.

📖 Important: Before applying, please read the Info Pack carefully, as it contains all essential information about the project, travel, accommodation, programme, and participant responsibilities.

📄 Info Pack: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vK66ywC3gnvz1EKuAWKLYBZDXHOvgzWA/view?usp=sharing

📝 Application Form: https://forms.gle/gqE7aVDgjL6J5kVn9

⚠️ Please apply only after you have read the Info Pack in full.

Don't miss this chance to develop your skills, meet inspiring people from across Europe, and experience the rich culture and history of Eastern Turkey! ✈️🌍

17/09/2026

🌍 Call for Bulgarian Participants for Erasmus+ Youth Exchange in Romania – “Do We Understand the Next Generation?”

Are you 18–27 years old, curious about different generations, technology, social change and intercultural exchange? Do you want to meet young people from across Europe, explore how generations think and communicate differently, and experience an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange surrounded by nature? 🌱

Then this opportunity is for you! 🇪🇺

📅 Dates: 5–13 October 2026

📍 Location: Bicăcel, Bihor, Romania – a rural activity centre surrounded by nature, approximately 25 km from Oradea.

🇪🇺 Programme: Erasmus+ Youth Exchange

🌱 ABOUT THE PROJECT

“Do We Understand the Next Generation?” is an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange exploring the differences and connections between generations that have grown up in very different historical, social and technological environments.

From generations shaped by war, authoritarian regimes and limited access to information to young Europeans growing up with smartphones, social media, instant access to knowledge and artificial intelligence, the project asks:

Do we really understand how the world experienced by each generation shapes the way people think, learn, communicate and participate in society?

During the exchange, participants will explore how digital tools can become powerful instruments for:

📚 Learning
🎨 Creativity
💬 Communication
🌍 Civic participation
🚀 Personal development

The programme will include interactive and non-formal activities such as:

☕ World Café
📖 Human Library
🎭 Forum Theatre
🎬 Role-play
💬 Debates
🚶 Walk & Talk
📚 Storytelling
📱 Digital challenges
🤖 AI experiments
🧠 Reflection activities

You will also explore misinformation, critical thinking, algorithms and the opportunities and limitations of artificial intelligence. Most importantly, the project aims to create a bridge between generations and explore what different generations can learn from each other.

👥 WHO CAN APPLY?

We are looking for Bulgarian participants who are:

✅ 18–27 years old

✅ Bulgarian citizens

✅ Curious about people, communities and different perspectives

✅ Open to new experiences and intercultural exchange

✅ Active and willing to participate in the activities

✅ Responsible when sharing spaces and living with others

✅ Critical thinkers who are willing to challenge assumptions, including their own

✨ No previous Erasmus+ experience is necessary! What matters is your motivation and active participation.

🏡 ACCOMMODATION & LIFE IN BICĂCEL

You will stay in small wooden houses, with 2–3 people per room and a bathroom in each house.

🌲 The activity centre is located next to the forest and surrounded by rural landscapes.

🐶🐴🐓 The area is also a working farm with dogs, cats, horses, chickens, ducks and other animals.

🍽️ Meals are prepared for the whole group according to one standard international menu. Please note that there is no separate vegetarian menu and individual food preferences cannot be accommodated.

⚠️ The accommodation is simple and basic, and it can get cold at night. Participants should be prepared for rural conditions, shared spaces, insects, mud and outdoor activities.

💶 COSTS & TRAVEL

✔️ Accommodation, food and travel are covered by the Erasmus+ programme.

✔️ A fee covering administrative costs / donation to the foundation is €30.

✈️ The organisers recommend travelling via Budapest, Hungary, followed by a train to Oradea.

🚆 Budapest → Oradea: approximately 3 hours

🚌 From Oradea → Bicăcel: local bus, Bolt or taxi

💰 Travel expenses will be reimbursed according to the project arrangements, up to 90 days after departure.

📌 Participants are also expected to complete the participant report and take part in 2 dissemination activities after the exchange.

🏙️ DISCOVER ORADEA

During your free time, you will have the opportunity to discover Oradea, explore its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, visit cultural and historical places, and take part in a group treasure hunt.

You can also explore:

🏛️ Oradea Fortress
🎭 State Theatre & cultural centre
🌸 Republicii Street & Black Eagle Palace
🏊 Nymphaea Aquapark / Băile Felix

🎒 WHAT TO BRING

Make sure to bring:

🪪 ID/Passport
📄 Insurance documents
💊 Personal medication
🧴 Toiletries
🛏️ Towel
👂 Ear plugs
🧥 Warm clothes
🌧️ Rainproof jacket
🥾 Waterproof shoes / Wellington boots
👟 Comfortable shoes for walking in the forest
🧦 Indoor slippers/shoes
👕 Clothes you don't mind getting muddy

🌍 You can also bring traditional sweets or snacks from Bulgaria to share with the group!

📖 IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING

This project takes place in a rural, nature-based environment with simple accommodation and shared living. Please read the Info Pack carefully before submitting your application to make sure the conditions are suitable for you.

📄 INFO PACK:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wjH9uQ4S2CNc1JpSHa-uo-6shqSBC0wR/view?usp=sharing

📝 APPLICATION FORM:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScm434o6Dvcg3od-H9R3oi4OQwf_YERLPeIUOrU80r1qlT9oA/viewform

⚠️ Please apply only after reading the Info Pack in full.

🌿 Ready to slow down?

Leave the rush behind.
Bring your curiosity.
Meet people from different generations and cultures.
Explore technology, nature and new perspectives.
And experience Erasmus+ in a completely different way. 🇪🇺✨

See you in Bicăcel! 🇷🇴🌲

16/09/2026

We welcome our new intern - Meret 🌱

Meret has just completed her studies in Environmental and Sustainability Sciences at Leuphana University in Germany, with a focus on sustainable chemistry and circular economy approaches.🔄👩‍🎓
She is passionate about creating a positive impact through NGO work and is excited to live in and explore Bulgaria.🌍🌅

We are delighted to have Meret as part of our organization! 💚

01/09/2026

🌍 Call for Bulgarian Participants for Erasmus+ Training Course in Türkiye – "Differences Build the Strongest Bridges"

Are you a teacher, youth worker, trainer, volunteer, NGO member, or simply someone who wants to develop their skills in social inclusion, peace education, and intercultural learning? If you are 18+ years old, this opportunity is for you!

📅 Dates: 8–15 October 2026
📍 Location: Bitlis & Ahlat, Türkiye (Accommodation at Ahlat Youth Camp)
🇪🇺 Programme: Erasmus+ Training Course funded by the European Union

🌱 About the Project

"Differences Build the Strongest Bridges" is an international training course that brings together participants from different countries to explore practical methods for promoting non-discrimination, conflict transformation, intercultural dialogue, and storytelling.

Through interactive workshops, group activities, and international exchange, you will gain practical tools to:

Promote equality and inclusion in your community.
Support young people from diverse backgrounds.
Strengthen your facilitation and communication skills.
Build meaningful international partnerships and friendships.
👥 Who Can Apply?

We are looking for Bulgarian participants who are:

✅ 18 years or older
✅ Teachers, educators, youth workers, trainers, volunteers, NGO members, or anyone interested in developing competences in youth work and non-formal education.
✅ Motivated to learn, share experiences, and work in an international environment.
✅ Open-minded and eager to contribute to inclusive communities.
💶 Costs & Support

✔️ Accommodation, meals, and programme activities are fully covered.
✔️ Travel costs are reimbursed according to the Erasmus+ rules.
✔️ All participants will receive an official Youthpass Certificate recognising their learning outcomes.
✔️ A fee covering administrative costs / donation to the foundation is €30.

📖 Important: Before applying, please read the Info Pack carefully, as it contains all essential information about the project, travel, accommodation, programme, and participant responsibilities.

📄 Info Pack: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vK66ywC3gnvz1EKuAWKLYBZDXHOvgzWA/view?usp=sharing

📝 Application Form: https://forms.gle/gqE7aVDgjL6J5kVn9

⚠️ Please apply only after you have read the Info Pack in full.

Don't miss this chance to develop your skills, meet inspiring people from across Europe, and experience the rich culture and history of Eastern Türkiye! ✈️🌍

31/08/2026

25/08/2026

🌿 Call for Bulgarian Participants for Erasmus+ Partnership Building Activity in Romania – “MINDSET: Mental Health in Youth Work – Partnership Building for Wellbeing”

Are you a youth worker, project manager, NGO representative, active volunteer, or someone involved in supporting young people? Are you interested in mental health, wellbeing, self-care, stress management, and building stronger European partnerships?

Then this Erasmus+ opportunity in Romania could be for you! 🇪🇺

📅 Activity dates: 12–17 October 2026
✈️ Arrival: 11 October 2026
✈️ Departure: 18 October 2026
📍 Location: Odorheiu Secuiesc, Harghita County, Romania 🇷🇴
🏨 Accommodation: Septimia Hotel
🇪🇺 Programme: Erasmus+ – Mobility of Youth Workers / Partnership Building Activity

🌱 About the Project

“MINDSET: Mental Health in Youth Work – Partnership Building for Wellbeing” is an international partnership-building activity focused on mental health and wellbeing in youth work.

Through international exchange and non-formal learning, participants will explore practical tools and approaches for:

🧠 Supporting mental health and wellbeing in youth work
🌿 Stress regulation and self-care
💬 Compassionate communication
🤝 Sharing successful youth-work methods and good practices
🌍 Building European cooperation between youth organisations, schools, and support services
💡 Improving the quality of youth work

👥 Who Can Apply?

We are looking for Bulgarian participants who are:

✅ 18 years or older
✅ Youth workers
✅ Project managers
✅ NGO representatives
✅ Active volunteers or people involved in youth work
✅ Interested in mental health and wellbeing
✅ Motivated to learn, exchange experiences and build international partnerships

🇧🇬 4 representatives can participate from each organisation.

💶 Costs & Support

✔️ Accommodation is fully covered by the organisers.
✔️ Meals are provided throughout the activity.
✔️ Travel expenses for participants from Bulgaria can be reimbursed up to €211 per participant, according to Erasmus+ rules.
✔️ Travel reimbursement is made after the mobility and the made dissemination.
✔️ Participants must keep all tickets, receipts and boarding passes for reimbursement.

🎒 Participants should be prepared to bring:

• A short presentation/materials about their organisation
• Something to present Bulgarian culture 🇧🇬
• Examples of successful non-formal education methods, tools or materials
• A valid ID card or passport
• All travel documents

📖 Important: Please read the Info Pack carefully before applying, as it contains essential information about the project, travel, accommodation and participant responsibilities.

📄 Info Pack: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fQLDonzqVDRyZfX3uTUUchl-076aW0ff/view?usp=sharing

📝 Application Form:
https://forms.gle/gqE7aVDgjL6J5kVn9

⚠️ Please apply only after you have read the Info Pack and if you are available for the full project period, including the arrival and departure days.

Join us in Romania for a meaningful international experience focused on mental health, wellbeing and stronger youth work across Europe! 🧠🌿🤝🇪🇺

11/08/2026

🎥 DAY 1 | Welcome to EcoExpressions! 🌍🌿

We officially kicked off EcoExpressions, an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange bringing together young people from Bulgaria 🇧🇬, Estonia 🇪🇪 and Norway 🇳🇴!

Our project is taking place at Nelijärve Puhkekeskus in Estonia, surrounded by forests, lakes and beautiful natural scenery. 🌲💧 It couldn’t be a better setting for a project focused on climate change, sustainability, creativity and reconnecting with nature.

🌱 EcoExpressions is all about exploring environmental challenges through creativity, non-formal education, intercultural learning and youth participation.

On our first day, we focused on creating the foundation for the days ahead. Participants got to know one another through energisers, games and team-building activities, learned more about the project and its objectives, and started building our new international community. 🤝✨

We also introduced Youthpass and the 8 Key Competences, encouraging participants to reflect throughout the exchange on what they are learning, which skills they are developing and how these experiences can contribute to their personal and professional growth. 💡

And this is only the beginning! 🌿

Over the next days, we’ll learn, create, discuss, experiment, exchange perspectives and transform environmental challenges into creative action. 🎨🌍

We’re excited to see what happens when young people from three different countries come together, share their experiences and create something meaningful.

🌍 Different countries. Different perspectives. One shared planet.

28/07/2026

🇪🇪 We are looking for 1 more participant from Estonia, preferably 18 years old, to join an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange! 🌿

One project. Six days. A creative journey for the planet. 🌍

✨ This August, young people from Estonia, Bulgaria, and Norway will come together for an inspiring Erasmus+ Youth Exchange:

“EcoExpressions: Creative Youth for a Greener Tomorrow” 🎬🎭

🌍💡 What to expect:

✅ Creative workshops in film, photography, theatre, music, and eco-art
✅ Exploring climate action through art and storytelling
✅ Eco-art activities using recycled materials
✅ Connecting with nature and discovering local environmental initiatives
✅ Intercultural exchange and national evenings with young people from across Europe

📅 Dates: 9–14 August 2026
📍 Location: Nelijärve, near Tallinn, Estonia
👤 Available place: 1 Estonian participant, preferably 18 years old
🌍 Participating countries: Estonia, Bulgaria, and Norway
🎓 Certificate: Youthpass

The selected participant will also:

📌 Work in international teams
📌 Share ideas about climate action and sustainability
📌 Present Estonian culture during the intercultural evening
📌 Develop creativity, confidence, and teamwork skills

📩 Infopack:
https://www.canva.com/.../DAG.../Tmd0fBSmQY-9SkhoJnrLOQ/view

📩 Apply here:
https://forms.gle/p28hPgVtpGA82ZSg6

Sometimes the most meaningful journeys begin with creativity and courage… 🌱

Will you be part of EcoExpressions?

Address

Baruten Pogreb 1
Varna
9000

Website

https://ydsg.org/

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