He for She: Empowering Young People to Build a More Equal Future

He for She was an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project organized by Artemis Women's Power MTÜ under project number 2023-1-EE01-KA152-YOU-000113609. The project took place in Saaremaa, Estonia, from 9 December to 16 December 2023, bringing together young participants from Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary, Romania, and Turkey. Through a diverse range of educational activities, discussions, and intercultural experiences, the project aimed to raise awareness of gender equality, encourage active participation, and strengthen young people's commitment to creating inclusive communities based on equal opportunities.

The activities were designed to ensure that participants fully understood the project's objectives while encouraging them to take an active role in the learning process. Interactive presentations, orientation sessions, awareness surveys, and group discussions helped participants reflect on their own expectations and develop a deeper understanding of gender equality. Ice-breaking activities and collaborative exercises created an inclusive environment where participants built trust, improved communication skills, and learned to appreciate cultural diversity while working toward common goals.

A major focus of the project was exploring the achievements of Maria de Lourdes Pintasilgo, whose life and work served as an inspiring example of women's leadership and equal opportunities. Through seminars, documentaries, presentations, and question-and-answer sessions, participants examined the importance of women's representation in society and discussed how equal opportunities enable individuals to contribute more effectively to their communities. These activities strengthened critical thinking, encouraged open dialogue, and inspired participants to challenge stereotypes through informed discussion.

Reflection and self-assessment were integrated throughout the project to reinforce learning outcomes. Regular evaluation activities encouraged participants to analyze what they had learned, express their opinions freely, and consider how they could apply new knowledge in their everyday lives. Sessions introducing the Youthpass certificate also helped participants recognize the value of documenting their learning experiences and understanding how non-formal education contributes to their personal and professional development.

The project also celebrated cultural diversity through intercultural evenings where participants shared traditional music, dances, food, languages, and customs from their countries. These experiences promoted mutual respect, strengthened intercultural dialogue, and reduced prejudices by allowing participants to engage directly with different cultures. By combining interactive learning methods, teamwork, reflection, and cultural exchange, He for She empowered young people to become more confident, socially responsible, and committed to promoting gender equality and inclusion within their own communities.