Whispers From the Desert

Welcome to “Whispers From the Desert”

Whispers From the Desert is a youth exchange that brings together young people from Europe, the Middle East, and the South Mediterranean to explore culture, nature, sustainability, and intercultural understanding through shared experiences in Croatia.

Objectives of the youth exchange

• Explore the connection between nature, culture, and sustainable practices in different countries.

• Support mutual understanding and help break stereotypes between European and Arab countries.

• Discover the cultural and natural heritage of Croatia and the local area of Đurđevac.

• Raise awareness about the healing and calming side of nature through practical techniques.

• Learn about deserts, life in desert regions, and different perspectives on sustainability.

• Create a space for cultural exchange, acceptance, and intercultural dialogue.

How we will achieve this

We will work through non-formal learning, intercultural exchange, and nature-based activities by combining:

• Workshops on culture, sustainability, natural heritage, and desert life,

• Outdoor learning activities connected to local resources such as Đurđevački pijesci, Borik Forest, and the Drava River,

• Team-led workshops where participants will design and implement activities around given topics,

• Intercultural evening, group work, reflection sessions, and shared experiences that encourage mutual respect and cooperation.

Who is this for?

We are looking for young people / youth participants who:

• Are interested in culture, nature, sustainability, and intercultural learning,

• Are motivated to actively participate before, during, and after the youth exchange,

• Are open to working in international teams and sharing their own culture,

• Are ready to contribute to group work, preparation tasks, and follow-up activities after returning.

Practical information

📍 Venue: Đurđevac, Croatia

🗓️ Dates (including travel days): 17–25 August 2026

🏠 Accommodation & food: Provided during the youth exchange.

✈️ Travel reimbursement: Travel costs are reimbursed after the youth exchange up to the country limit (Türkiye: 309€ / Green travel: 417€).

🌿 Green travel note: This applies only if you travel by sustainable transport options such as buses or trains, not by airplane.

Application deadline: 14.07.2026