For many young people, finding a job isn’t just about having the right skills; it’s about accessing opportunities that are often out of reach in their local environments. The ELA project (Empowerment through learning and working abroad) in Recklinghausen, Germany, tackles this challenge by offering work-related learning experiences in Italy or Greece for young adults aged 18 to 30, equipping them with skills and insights that help them reintegrate into their communities upon return to Germany.
This project, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and the European Social Fund Plus, is part of the ‘JUVENTUS: Mobilität stärken - für ein soziales Europa Programme’ and the broader ALMA initiative. It targets young people who are not in education, employment, or training, providing them with pathways to work or training and supporting their integration into society.
Participants gain valuable work experience and life skills that foster independence and self-reliance. They immerse themselves in new cultures, languages, and ways of life, enhancing their personal and professional growth. They learn to navigate new environments, collaborate with diverse teams, and adapt to various work ethics and practices – skills that are invaluable in today’s global economy.
Rainer, a participant, reflects on the profound personal growth he experienced: ‘I have learned to take responsibility for myself and others and that every problem can be solved.’ This highlights the transformative potential of the ELA project.
Participants also develop a range job-specific skills and soft skills, including crafting job applications and mastering job interview techniques. Sara highlights the impact of her experience: ‘The project has opened many new doors for me. I was able to try out things that I could only do in my dreams before. The stay abroad gave me the opportunity to do an internship and overcome my fears, such as the fear of flying.’
As the stay abroad concludes, the young apprentices return home, enriched with new skills and a fresh perspective on what they can achieve and contribute to their communities. But the support doesn’t end upon their return; it continues with mentorship and follow-up care to help them transition into professional life or further education, preparing them for long-term success.
The ELA project equips participants with essential skills and a global perspective, enabling them to thrive professionally and personally. This initiative shows the profound impact of targeted support and international exposure in shaping the futures of Europe's youth.
Project details
- Project name
- ELA: Empowerment through learning and working abroad
- Countries
- Germany
- Organisation
- RE/init e.V.
- Participants
- 104
- Project start
- 2023
- Project end
- 2027
- Internet and social
- Contact details
- Andreea Moraru
andreea.moraru@reinit.de
+49 157 80529467 - Total budget
- EUR 1 856 916.92
- EU Budget contribution
- EUR 742 766.76