From October 10th to 13th, 2024, Nicosia, the vibrant capital of Cyprus, became a hub for regional cooperation as it hosted the South Eastern European Platform 2024.This event brought together around 150 volunteers to foster collaboration, address pressing challenges, and shape the future of Southeast Europe.
The event was supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe. The success of it wouldn’t be possible without the support of the hosts as well; the Cypriot National Agency - Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes (IDEP) and the University of Cyprus. The huge support of the event showcased the importance of the collaboration between youth organisations, universities and institutional partners.
SEEP Regional Platform is a yearly gathering that brings together ESN volunteers from the South-Eastern region of Europe, providing a unique opportunity for young people to develop their skills, establish connections, and exchange valuable experiences. Volunteers from 22 different countries of the region and outside of it, gathered together and connected in the best way possible thanks to the hard work, passion and dedication of the volunteers of ESN Cyprus and the Content Team.
This year's edition of the training event was different in many ways. What made it unique in terms of content was without the doubt the diversity of participants - 150 volunteers from newbies to very experienced ones, took part in the annual training event. It was a challenge to accommodate the needs of volunteers coming from different backgrounds, with different obstacles in their volunteer communities and sections and with a plethora of interests, but yet a valuable process.
‘’From my perspective, what made the event memorable in terms of content is, the passion of the content team to bring to the volunteers the knowledge they have received. As a response, the participants were proactive, eager to learn and contribute to the final result of this event that we see - a new generation of ESNers equipped with knowledge to empower their local sections and continue helping students.’’ - Ivalina Danova, SEEP Regional Training Coordinator
The sessions were designed by a team of 3 trainers and 7 facilitators, supervised by the Regional Training Coordinator. Also, 3 members of the Support Structures of ESN International joined and contributed to the event by facilitating part of the workshops. The dedication of these volunteers in the past two months was admirable - it was enjoyable to see their own process of thinking and creating content that would be impactful. With 5 rounds of 4-5 parallel sessions, one of them dedicated only to personal skills development, SEEP offered participants to attend workshops in the fields of education and advocacy, event and project management, recruitment and knowledge transfer, PR and communication, as well as finance and negotiations
As SEEP is only a 3-day training, it was needed to make sure only the most important topics were included. The International Board representative of the event, the current treasurer of ESN, Rui Vinha, led a discussion about the long-term strategy and vision for the future of our Network and was present to establish direct connection with the local level.
Despite the event's focus on training, the volunteers of ESN Cyprus ensured that participants would also have a rich cultural experience.
‘’What made the event even more special was the energy of every single volunteer. Not only did they gain valuable professional skills, but they also showed off their amazing talents—whether through dancing, singing, networking, or diving into conversations about the environment, exchange programs, and different traditions. For me personally, this edition of SEEP was the one I took the most from. It will forever stay in my memory as an event that was unique, unforgettable, and truly experienced to the fullest. It was the most professional and powerful event I have ever attended.
SEEP Nicosia felt like a big family reunion, and it’s an experience that will live on in ESNers’ stories for years to come. All of this was made possible by an incredible, hardworking organizing team that took the event to a whole new level!’’ - Iustin Racu, SEEP Regional Coordinator
The social programme of the South Eastern European Platform in Nicosia added a vibrant layer of connection to the workshops. Participants had the chance to participate in a diverse range of cultural activities offering them a unique and enriching experience. The events kicked off with a Scavenger Hunt through the Old Town on Thursday, where participants explored the city in the most fun way possible. The activity fostered teamwork, and the evening continued with a lively Street Fest offering a relaxed setting for participants to connect.
On Friday, participants were treated to a cultural highlight with a re-enactment of a Traditional Cypriot Wedding. Held at a charming local tavern, this immersive event showcased the joy and vibrancy of Cypriot wedding customs, accompanied by a traditional meze and dance performances.
The programme culminated on Saturday with the SEEPosium x Karaoke event, where each delegation showcased their national cuisine, followed by a karaoke featuring songs from the participants' home countries. This event celebrated the diversity of SEEP participants and fostered a sense of unity through shared cultural experiences.
Sustainability and inclusivity were central to all activities, ensuring minimal environmental impact and accommodating all participants. The social programme created a memorable balance of cultural exploration, bonding, and fun, perfectly complementing the SEEP’s formal agenda.
During the whole event participants had the opportunity to experience authentic local flavours as well. In addition to traditional dishes, they were provided with Cypriot snacks, like the well known pourekkia or loukoumia, allowing the participants to connect with the cultural heritage and childhood traditions. This way they were offered an intimate glimpse into the everyday life of a local person in Cyprus. This combination of flavours allowed the participants not only to taste the tradition, but also experience a cultural warmth that defines the Cypriot community.
‘’For us, SEEP Nicosia 2024 was not just an International event. This was an opportunity to share with the whole Network the same love, care, passion and dedication that we show to our international students since 2015; 9 years of creating unforgettable memories. Nicosia is not just a city! Nicosia is where people connect, learn and grow. Nicosia is not just a place, Nicosia is a feeling.’’ - Anastasia Andreou, Head of the Organising Committee
The valuable support of the stakeholders, the successful delivery of workshops by the Content Team, the amazing organisation of the ESN Cyprus’ volunteers, and the great input of all the participants made the event very special. SEEP Nicosia 2024 brilliantly highlighted the beauty of the region. It was an event to be remembered.
At the bottom of the page, you can consult the the guidelines for Cross-Border Cooperation among Youth Organisations in South East Europe, a product of the SEEP Nicosia 2024
Follow ESN