Mini Urban Festival Youth Exchange
From 22nd May to 27th May 2025, we hosted the Mini Urban Festival youth exchange in Ljubljana, supported by the Erasmus+ programme. Young people from Slovenia, Serbia, Spain and Ireland came together to explore urban art as a tool for expression, connection, and social change. Through workshops on breaking, DJing, rap, improvisation, and cultural exchange, we learned from each other, developed new skills, and built bridges through creativity and authentic experience.
Below, we’re sharing daily highlights written by the participants themselves, in their own words, through their own eyes.
Day 1
What happens when we let go of the labels, roles, and identities we’ve always carried? During our transformative Erasmus+ Youth Exchange in Ljubljana, participants came together for a powerful workshop on ego dissolution – exploring what it truly means to go beyond the self. Through deep discussions, guided meditation, and experiential exercises, we reflected on the illusions of the ego and how shedding them can open paths to authentic connection, empathy, and inner freedom. This wasn’t just a workshop – it was a journey into presence, vulnerability, and collective growth. Ljubljana held space. We showed up. The ego stepped aside.
Day 2
Today we hit the floor with Linda for a breaking workshop (not breakdance — we learned the proper term!). We kicked things off with a warm-up: head rolls, stretches, and grooves to get us moving. Then we learned some basic steps like the two-step, Indian step, and kick-out, plus three cool drops — including the knee drop! Even during breaks, we couldn’t stop dancing! Big shoutout to our top movers Jovana and Pia.
Day 3
Today we learned about the graffiti with Matic – First we made our own designs and after, we got into groups and started with work. We made a total of 3 big canvases. Matic showed us how to use the sprays correctly in order to make different styles, and in the end, we ended up with absolute artworks. It was a very funny experience and we really enjoyed it. Thank you Matic!
Day 4
Today we met the wonderful rapper Mirko and he taught us the basics of rap music like rhythm, rhyme and flow. The best thing about this workshop was that we all got to express ourselves through rap lyrics, and perform in front of everyone. It was amazing how everyone had such different styles and content. Some raps were funny, others were powerful and deeply personal but flowed so well together. By the end of the workshop, we not only learned a lot about rap but also about each other. Thanks to Mirko, we discovered a new way to connect.
Day 5
Another unforgettable day in Ljubljana! Morning vibes: We kicked off the day with an energizing DJ workshop – learning the basics of mixing, beatmatching, and expressing ourselves through sound. From first-timers to music lovers, everyone found their rhythm behind the decks! Afternoon magic: We dove into a colorful intercultural activity, where each group shared traditions, food, dances, and stories from their countries. The room turned into a vibrant mosaic of diversity, laughter, and meaningful exchange. Different sounds. Different cultures. One shared experience.
Day 6
Our last day in Ljubljana was all about reflection, celebration, and sharing. We began with a group evaluation, looking back at everything we experienced, learned, and co-created. Through creative methods and open conversations, we shared our personal highlights, challenges, and transformations. It was emotional, honest, and full of appreciation. Then came the final event, our chance to present what we’ve learned to the local community. From dance to rap, from inner work to intercultural stories, we showcased our journey in the most authentic way. This may have been the end of the exchange, but the connections, insights, and inspiration we gained are coming home with us. Till we meet again, Ljubljana 💛
Thank you to everyone who was part of this incredible week – And we mean everyone. Without our amazing mentors, organizers and participants this week wouldn’t have been possible. HVALA!
