The project aimed to empower young people to promote gender equality and wellbeing by using the dynamic sport of Quidditch as an educational tool. 

 

The project took place in Vienna, Austria, from 7 to 14 August and involved 40 youth participants from
Latvia 🇱🇻, Austria 🇦🇹, Croatia 🇭🇷, Greece 🇬🇷, Czech Republic 🇨🇿, Slovenia 🇸🇮, Slovakia 🇸🇰 and Serbia 🇷🇸.

 

Today’s young people are navigating a world filled with both opportunity and uncertainty. One of the most striking emotional challenges we face is the growing sense of disconnection, social anxiety, and self-doubt. These experiences are especially prevalent when it comes to identity, gender roles, and mental wellbeing. According to recent surveys, emotional wellbeing is becoming a top priority for youth in Europe, closely linked to broader societal issues like inclusion, gender equality, and belonging. “Don’t let the Muggles get you down!” is not just a catchy title – it is a direct invitation to fight back against negative energy, societal limitations, and mental strain. Through this project, we aim to build emotional resilience, cultivate self-awareness, and promote gender inclusivity through a powerful combination of sport, storytelling, and team-based learning. At the heart of it all is Quidditch – a uniquely inclusive and mixed-gender sport that encourages teamwork, physical activity, and a playful rethinking of gender norms. Sport has long been known to benefit both mental and physical health, but our approach goes a step further by embedding reflective learning, emotional intelligence, and collaborative dialogue into every activity. This project also addresses the need for innovative wellbeing practices that offer solutions rather than just highlighting problems. By experiencing new social roles, navigating teamwork, and exploring emotional topics in a safe and engaging environment, participants will gain personal tools for resilience and understanding. In line with the values of Erasmus+ and the EU Youth Strategy, we use non-formal education to bridge societal gaps and promote active youth participation. Our mission is to foster inclusive spaces where young people can thrive, regardless of their background. By creating a safe arena for honest expression, intercultural exchange, and embodied learning, “Don’t let the Muggles get you down!” will spark a transformation in how young people see themselves and their role in shaping a more equal and emotionally intelligent society.

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The project aims and objectives:

• Promote gender equality through inclusive and team-based sport.

• Strengthen mental and emotional wellbeing among participants.

• Challenge stereotypes and foster resilience through intercultural dialogue.

• Equip young people with advocacy and communication skills for community engagement.

• Inspire youth to become active citizens and role models for equality and wellbeing.

 

Project activity schedule:

Day 1 - We opened the Youth Exchange with a warm welcome and dynamic team-building. Participants got to know each other, explored their competences, and set goals for the week. It was the perfect start to begin learning about wellbeing and gender equality through the exciting and inclusive world of Quidditch, creating a strong group spirit.

 

Day 2 - The day focused on gender stereotypes and equality in sports. Participants explored how to create inclusive and fair play environments. Later, they joined their first Quidditch training, learning the basics of the game while strengthening teamwork, trust, and cooperation. Sport became a powerful tool for challenging roles and fostering inclusion.

 

Day 3 - We examined mental health and wellbeing in sports, while also strengthening leadership and communication skills. Through interactive activities, participants gained practical tools for resilience and teamwork. Quidditch training continued with strategies and advanced techniques to prepare teams for the upcoming tournament and collective challenges ahead.

 

Day 4 - The focus of the day was applying knowledge gained during the week. Participants reflected on gender equality beyond sports, linking their insights to everyday life. In discussions, they set goals to promote fairness and inclusion in their communities and considered how sport and teamwork can inspire long-term positive social change.

 

Day 5 - Inclusion and cooperation were at the heart of the day. In the morning, participants created an outdoor game accessible to people with different disabilities, experiencing challenges of inclusion first-hand. In the afternoon, they competed in the Quidditch Tournament and closed with reflections on fair play, equality, teamwork, and respect.

 

Day 6 - The final day highlighted achievements and future impact. Through the SDGs Intelligence Exhibition, participants connected their learning to global sustainability and equality. They reflected on their journey, shared insights, and received Youthpass certificates, celebrating knowledge, skills, and friendships built during an empowering week of exchange.