Beyond the Screen
Youth Exchange - Romania, Curteni
Youth Exchange - Romania, Curteni
7-15 June 2025
7-15 June 2025
Between June 7–15, 2025, a vibrant group of 47 young people from Romania and Hungary came together in the heart of Romania for “Beyond the Screen”, a powerful Erasmus+ Youth Exchange focused on digital safety, cybersecurity, and online wellbeing.
But this wasn’t just another tech talk.
It was an experience where teenagers became digital explorers, tackling real-life online challenges, learning how to protect their personal data, and reflecting on how screens shape (and sometimes distort) their everyday lives.
The youth exchange was created to give young participants the knowledge and confidence to navigate the digital world safely. From interactive workshops to team-building games, we explored topics like:
Spotting phishing attempts and online scams
Participants learned how to identify fake messages, suspicious links, and avoid falling victim to online fraud.
Understanding what digital safety means
From password protection to online privacy, this session built the foundation for smart, safe digital behavior.
Exploring their digital footprint and online identity
Teens reflected on how their posts, clicks, and shares shape their long-term digital presence.
Promoting digital wellbeing and healthy tech habits
This workshop encouraged balance—teaching mindful screen use and the importance of offline time.
Recognizing and responding to cyberbullying
Participants discovered how to identify online harassment, take action, and support their peers.
1.Increase understanding and awareness of digital safety and cybersecurity among young participants through interactive workshops and non-formal education methods.
2.Empower participants to become advocates for responsible digital behavior by developing strategies to promote online safety within their communities.
3.Equip participants with practical skills to identify and respond to digital threats, while fostering critical thinking around data privacy, cyberbullying, and online communication.
The project brought together young teens aged 13–14 from Romania and Hungary
They were curious, creative, and hungry to learn. And most importantly—they now carry with them the skills to stay safe online and the power to make change in their communities.
The very first day of Beyond the Screen was all about breaking the ice and making new friends. Everyone came together with smiles and curiosity, ready to kick off an awesome week. We played fun games, shared stories, and laughed a lot — just getting comfortable with each other before diving into the serious stuff. It was the perfect way to start, setting the vibe for a week full of learning and good times!
During the exchange, we discovered the Youthpass certificate.
We talked about how Youthpass isn’t just a paper; it’s a way to recognize and celebrate everything we’ve learned, from teamwork and communication to digital safety skills.
It was a great chance for everyone to reflect on their personal growth, from teamwork to digital safety, and see how these new skills can help in their future studies and careers. The Youthpass showed us that learning goes well beyond just the activities—it’s about real development.
Participants worked in small teams to explore what a digital footprint is and how online activities like social media and gaming leave traces. They created posters and shared their findings, learning why it’s important to manage their digital footprint. The activity ended with a fun sorting game to practice what they’d learned.
In this eye-opening session, participants learned how to spot phishing scams and suspicious online messages. Through real-life examples and group challenges, they discovered the tricks scammers use and how to stay safe.
By the end, everyone was better prepared to recognize red flags and protect themselves online—no one got hooked!
One of the most exciting moments of the exchange was our study visit to Sighișoara, a stunning medieval city full of history and charm. But this wasn’t just sightseeing — it was the start of the Cyber Chase!
Participants were split into teams and given a challenge: explore the city while completing interactive tasks related to digital safety and cybersecurity.
From solving tech riddles and answering online safety trivia to finding hidden clues across historic streets, every step was a blend of culture, fun, and learning. The teams worked together to complete each mission, building both their digital knowledge and their friendships.
It was the perfect mix of history, teamwork, and playful learning—proving that even in a medieval city, the digital world is never too far away!
No youth exchange is complete without a taste of each other’s culture—and we did it in style!
We dedicated two unforgettable nights to intercultural evenings, where participants from Romania and Hungary took the lead in sharing their traditions, music, food, and fun.
During the Romanian night, the group was treated to lively folk dances, traditional snacks, and a interesting quiz. The evening ended with singing and clapping to the rhythm of joy and community.
The Hungarian evening brought just as much energy, with beautiful songs, fun cultural quizzes, and traditional games that got everyone involved. From folk rhythms to modern beats, the dance floor lit up with laughter and movement.
These nights were more than just entertainment—they were a celebration of interculturality, showing how learning about each other’s backgrounds can build stronger bonds and mutual respect. Plus, they were a whole lot of fun!
As the final day arrived, it was clear that saying goodbye wasn’t easy. After a week full of learning, laughter, dancing, and connection, strong bonds had been formed. But in Erasmus+, we don’t really say goodbye—we say “see you again”. Because every end is just the start of something new.
With hugs, promises to keep in touch, and even a few happy tears, participants returned home—carrying not just memories, but new knowledge, friendships, and a drive to make a difference.
One of the most important goals of an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange is to create a meaningful impact—not just during the activity, but long after it ends.
Through our DEOR (Dissemination and Exploitation of Results) Plan, participants were encouraged to take what they learned and share it with others—in schools, youth clubs, or online. They became local ambassadors for digital safety, using creative tools like presentations, posters, or even social media challenges to spread awareness in their communities.
Because at its heart, a youth exchange like Beyond the Screen is not just about learning—it's about empowering young people to make a difference, in their own lives and in the world around them.
On June 16th, 2025, the Romanian team organized a vibrant dissemination event at Școala Gimnazială „Liviu Rebreanu” in Miercurea Ciuc. Together with their group leaders, the 20 participants shared their Beyond the Screen experience through a short presentation filled with photos, stories, and highlights from the exchange.
Using the same non-formal education methods from the project, they led an interactive workshop on key topics like Phishing, Cyberbullying, Cookies, and Digital Competences. To end on a fun note, they got everyone moving with one of their favorite energizers from the exchange.
It was a day full of learning, laughter, and inspiring others to stay safe and smart in the digital world.
On June 17th, 2025, during the final teachers’ meeting at Școala Gimnazială „Liviu Rebreanu”, the group leaders held a dissemination session focused on the youth exchange. They presented the project’s key elements—non-formal education methods, learning outcomes, photos, and personal reflections. The session also sparked a meaningful discussion on how these methods can be integrated into the school’s daily teaching.
On the 1st of October, Școala Gimnazială „Liviu Rebreanu” set up a dedicated corner to celebrate and disseminate their Erasmus+ experiences. The display highlighted the youth exchange “Beyond the Screen”, a project focused on digital safety and cybersecurity.
Students, teachers, and visitors had the opportunity to explore photos, and educational materials showcasing the activities, insights, and outcomes of the exchange, emphasizing the importance of responsible and secure digital engagement.
The youth worker of the exchange, Victor, organized two dissemination sessions at the ASEY Network Youth Center, on the 22nd of September and 24th of October 2025, each reaching 26 participants.
During the sessions, Victor presented the Beyond the Screen youth exchange, sharing key activities, learning outcomes, and personal reflections from the project. Participants were introduced to the skills developed during the exchange, including teamwork, creativity, and digital safety and cybersecurity, as well as the opportunities provided by the ASEY Network. Both sessions included discussions and interactive elements, inspiring attendees to explore similar Erasmus+ projects and take part in future international youth activities.
On June 19th, 2025, participants at Szent Anna Görögkatolikus Gimnázium és Technikum in Budapest led a dissemination session. Using a Canva presentation, they showcased the non-formal education methods, learning outcomes, photos, personal stories, and unforgettable memories from the youth exchange.
Facilitator Minja delivered an international dissemination session in Hungary during another youth exchange she facilitated. She shared the key results and experiences from Beyond the Screen, presenting its activities on digital safety and cybersecurity—such as digital footprint awareness, phishing prevention, and youth-led campaigns.
This session reached 42 participants, further spreading the impact of the mobility and encouraging young people to adopt safer online practices.
“Beyond the Screen” showed us that digital safety is not just a topic—it’s a life skill. Empowering young people with the tools to protect themselves online is not just about avoiding danger—it’s about building confidence, resilience, and community in a digital world.
Through the dissemination activities carried out after the mobility, participants successfully raised awareness about the Erasmus+ programme and the learning experience offered through the Beyond the Screen youth exchange.
They presented the main theme of the exchange — digital safety and cybersecurity — and shared what they learned about digital footprints, online risks, and responsible internet use.
Their presentations, posters, photos, and interactive discussions helped classmates, teachers, and community members better understand the purpose of the mobility and the value of participating in Erasmus+ youth exchanges.
During their dissemination sessions, participants shared the concrete skills and knowledge they gained during the mobility, such as:
Identifying elements of their digital footprint, recognising phishing techniques and online deception, promoting safe online behaviour through Digital Ambassador actions, applying creativity and emotional expression through art therapy activities, solving digital challenges and working as a team during the CyberQuest in Sighișoara.
These presentations helped spread essential digital literacy and cybersecurity skills within their schools and communities, contributing to a safer online culture.
The peer-to-peer nature of the dissemination activities made a strong impact. By sharing their experiences, challenges, and favourite moments from the mobility, participants inspired other young people to reflect on their own online habits and take a more responsible approach to the digital world.
Some dissemination events sparked interest among peers to join future Erasmus+ youth exchanges, showing how impactful personal stories can be in motivating others.
The experience also encouraged participants to continue acting as digital safety role models, spreading positive online behaviours long after the mobility ended.
The impact of Beyond the Screen has been meaningful and long-lasting, shaping participants’ understanding of digital safety while supporting their personal and social growth.
Many shared how the youth exchange encouraged safer digital habits and more mindful online behavior:
|“I am more inclined to take precautions in my day-to-day life regarding cyber security and using the online tools available.”
Others highlighted how they passed on what they learned to those around them:
| “I shared the information I learned with my family, friends and I learned how to communicate better while speaking English.”
Several participants described the boost in confidence and social ease they experienced:
| “I become more confident in socialising and learned a lot.”
Others expressed how the exchange improved their practical awareness online:
| “I don't click on suspicious links.”
Many also explained how they applied what they learned back home by promoting online safety within their communities:
| “I applied the knowledge in my home country by being more safe online and helping my friends too.”
Teachers also saw direct impact in their classrooms:
| “I encouraged students to reflect on their digital behavior and worked with them to create awareness materials for the school. The experience also helped me guide them more confidently in navigating the online world responsibly.”
Some participants described in detail how actively they transferred their learning to their families, schools, and peers:
| “I have applied the knowledge and experiences gained from the Youth Exchange in several ways within my home community. I started talking more with my friends and family about online safety and shared useful tips such as using strong and unique passwords, enabling two- factor authentication, and recognizing phishing attempts. I also helped some of my friends develop safer digital habits by showing them how to use password managers and protect their personal data. In my school community, I talked about the importance of cybersecurity and encouraged others to be more aware of their online behavior. This program gave me not only useful knowledge but also the confidence to speak openly about these topics and help others navigate the digital world more safely.”
Others focused on helping their families become safer online:
| “I helped my family members use the internet more and told them how important it is to keep their personal data safe.”
Some participants took initiative in their local communities, connecting digital safety with intercultural communication:
| “I have tried to apply the knowledge and experiences I gained during the Youth Exchange in my local community by organizing discussions and small events where I shared the importance of cultural openness, cooperation, and dialogue between young people. I also encouraged others to participate in similar international programs because I believe these opportunities are valuable both on a personal and community level.”
For many, the exchange created lasting friendships and a strong emotional impact:
| “I made many friends and I gained a lot of knowledge about online safety. Personally I loved this experience and it definitely made a big impact on me, I really miss being there.”
Others mentioned newfound social confidence:
| “I’m not scared of socialising anymore.”
Teachers also observed personal and professional growth in themselves:
| “I became more aware of the digital risks young people face and more prepared to support them. The exchange also inspired me to create a more open space for dialogue about online behavior in the classroom.”
Some participants shared how the experience transformed them both personally and socially:
| “The Youth Exchange had a big impact on me because it helped me grow both personally and socially. I became more confident, open-minded, and motivated to learn new things. I improved my English communication skills and learned a lot about online safety and cybersecurity, which I now use in my daily life. It was also the first time I worked closely with people from different countries, and this helped me understand other cultures better and develop stronger teamwork skills. The experience inspired me to step out of my comfort zone, share my ideas, and be more active in my community. Overall, it changed the way I see the world and encouraged me to keep learning and connecting with others.”
Others expressed how the exchange opened them to new cultures and future opportunities:
| “The Youth Exchange had a big impact on me because it helped me step out of my comfort zone and meet new people and cultures. It improved my communication skills, made me more confident in speaking English, and taught me to be more open to different perspectives. This experience also motivated me to get more involved in my local community and to participate in more international projects in the future.”
Through Beyond the Screen, participants not only developed essential digital safety and cybersecurity competences, but also gained confidence, intercultural understanding, and the motivation to share responsible online habits with their communities. The exchange empowered them to become more aware, more proactive, and more supportive of others in navigating the digital world — creating impact that continues far beyond the mobility itself.
The Beyond the Screen youth exchange has been featured in several articles and press releases by external media outlets. These publications highlighted the activities, outcomes, and impact of the mobility, helping to raise awareness about digital safety, cybersecurity, and the Erasmus+ program.
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