“TALES 2.0 - Traditions Alive, Learning and Expressing Stories” Participant Report

“Between 29 May and 7 June, we participated in the Youth Exchange of “TALES 2.0 – Traditions Alive, Learning and Expressing Stories” in Madeira, Portugal.

The project brought together young people from Hungary, Portugal, Malta, Turkey and Romania to explore traditions, folktales, fading cultural practices and the stories we carry from our communities.

During these days, we had the chance to look at traditions not as something old or distant, but as something very alive. Through workshops, craft activities, cultural sharing and storytelling, we discovered how many small traditions are slowly disappearing, and why it matters to remember them, talk about them and pass them forward to the next generations. Each country brought something personal into the project: stories, dances, handmade crafts, cultural memories and different ways of seeing the world. These moments created a very special vibe, where learning happened not only in the sessions, but also during conversations, shared meals, hikes and simple everyday moments.

One of the most memorable parts of the exchange was the hike in the UNESCO Heritage Fanal Forest, where we took part in creative photo challenges. Surrounded by nature, we had space to slow down, observe, create art and connect with the environment in a different way. The project also included a digital detox challenge, which gave everyone the chance to reflect on their digital habits and experience how valuable it can be to be fully present with the people around us. In a world where we are constantly online, this was a simple but powerful reminder.

Another exciting part of the programme was learning about AI tools and platforms. We explored how AI can be used creatively, including creating videos about fading traditions. It was interesting to see how AI can also help young people tell old stories in new ways.

Although what made this project truly meaningful was the group itself. People from different countries came together, shared their cultures openly, learned from each other and created friendships that will continue beyond the project.

At the end of the exchange, we organized a flashmob in Funchal, performing a dance that included traditional movements from all participating countries. It was a beautiful final moment: many cultures, one shared rhythm, and a public celebration of what we had learned together.”

The project was organized by Forgotten Tales and funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ programme.