Celebrating Erasmus Days in Portugal: Highlights from Lisbon and Condeixa

This October, we celebrated Erasmus Days with two inspiring events in Portugal, bringing together diverse groups to share experiences, develop skills, and promote lifelong learning.

October 15: Embroidery and connection in Lisbon

On October 15, 2024, we gathered at the inspiring space of A Avó Veio Trabalhar in Lisbon. Guided by the “Create your Action!” brochure from the Citizens Xelerator project, the activity aimed to foster connections between a group of six “Grandmothers” and women aged 24 to 69 from the Citizens Xelerator Action Laboratory, part of an Erasmus+ project.

The workshop explored self-portraiture through the unique technique of embroidery on photography. Participants had the opportunity to learn from the “Grandmothers,” who shared their knowledge of embroidery, while the laboratory group presented their own albums of stitches and embroidery nets created during previous training sessions. This enriching exchange of skills and experiences left everyone eager to continue the collaborative work initiated during this event.

October 16: Empathy and Celebration in Condeixa

The following day, on October 16, we held a face-to-face activity at Casal do Missa in Condeixa. This session, centered on the theme of empathy, used the CX LifeComp “Empathy” card to help participants identify and develop social skills. Organized with the support of APCEP, Letras Prá Vida/ESEC, the Municipality of Condeixa-a-Nova, and Social Radar Condeixa, the event featured:

• A virtual journey through more than 1,000 Erasmus+ initiatives worldwide.
• Guided activities focused on building empathy and social skills.
• Shared moments of music, poetry, and a commemorative cake to mark the occasion.

Both events embodied the spirit of Erasmus Days by emphasizing community, creativity, and the development of essential skills. From the artistry of embroidery in Lisbon to the exploration of empathy in Condeixa, these gatherings showcased the transformative power of lifelong learning and intercultural exchange.

We are proud to have been part of such meaningful celebrations and look forward to continuing this journey of growth and collaboration!