What is the project about?

We are stressed! Queer people need to endure more challenges in their lives than others. We live in cis-heteronormative societies in which we constantly need to justify who we are, how we express ourselves, whom we love, how or with whom we have sex or why we don’t fit into the gender binary. We often need to fight against oppressive systems. And this only becomes even more apparent if we are part of not one, but several marginalized groups. This can lead to mental health issues and burnout.

This project is international. In this youth exchange in Bohinj (Slovenia), queer people between 18 and 30 living in Slovenia, Greece, Cyprus and Germany will come together to reflect on this topic and to come up with strategies to better cope with stressful situations. We are organizing this project together with the Slovenian queer organisation Legebitra.

How will this look like? The youth exchange will be two-tiered. On the one hand, there will be a space and time for active leisure; on the other hand, through informal methods, we will create workshops within which reflection on our mechanisms, stress exposure and potential burnout will be encouraged. We will address self-care and community care: what it means to us, what it helps us with and where the barriers are.

Safer Space! The project is supposed to be a safer space for LGBT+ young people from around Europe. The space will be open for exchange of good practices, taking into account the cultural and social context.

Where?

The project will take place at a hostel by Lake Bohinj in the Northwest of Slovenia. The lake is in the mountains and part of the Triglav National Park.

Who can apply?

Anyone who identifies as queer, who is between 18 and 30 years old, and who lives in Germany. We explicitly encourage participants of all genders, sexual orientations, abilities, educational backgrounds, races and ethnic backgrounds to apply. No experience or special skills are needed.

COVID-19?

Of course, the pandemic will not be over by September. Ideally, you are fully vaccinated by the time of the youth exchange. If this is not possible for you, we will ask you to do a COVID-19 test before travelling. Also on site in Slovenia, we will follow the usual protective regulations that are appropriate then.

Language

The youth exchange will take place in English. If you don’t feel so secure in your English, our group leader will support you.

Costs?

All your costs are covered. This includes your travels from Germany to Slovenia and back (for up to 275 EUR, depending on where in Germany you live), accommodation and food. This project is funded by the European Commission through the program Erasmus+.

Questions?

Feel free to write an email to Thomas at thomas@cqs.berlin

Application is closed!