– Project Name: Youth Exchange “Taste Away 2.0”
– Dates: 29 April – 7 May 2026
– Location: Mrachenik, Bulgaria
– Sending Organization: BRAVO
– Hosting Organization: Smokinya Foundation
– Working Language: English
– Participants’ Age Range: 18–25
– Number of Participants per Country: 2+
This project is supported and co-funded by the Erasmus+ program. It means that your travel costs, accommodation, and food will be fully covered if you get selected for the project. The European Commission’s support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission nor EACEA can be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
We are pleased to announce the selected participants for the Youth Exchange “Taste Away 2.0”, which will take place from 29 April to 7 May 2026 in Mrachenik, Bulgaria.
This project is hosted by Smokinya Foundation in collaboration with the sending organization BRAVO, and is supported and co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union. The youth exchange brings together young people from across Europe who are eager to explore cultural diversity, sustainability, and community living through shared experiences centered around food and mindful living.
This project is hosted by Future in Our Hands, in collaboration with the sending organization BRAVO, and is supported and co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme. The training course brings together young people and youth workers from across Europe who are interested in digital and media literacy, artificial intelligence, and responsible use of digital technologies in today’s information-driven society.
About the Project
“Taste Away 2.0” is an international youth exchange designed to bring young people together through food, culture, and shared living experiences. The project aims to build a strong sense of community while encouraging participants to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with themselves, others, and nature.
Set in a rural mountain village in Bulgaria, the project focuses on preparing, cooking, and sharing meals, while exploring different cultures and traditions. Participants will live in a minimalistic environment, promoting sustainability, creativity, and mindful living.
Selected Participants
Representing BRAVO and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the following individuals have been selected to take part in this international youth exchange:
- Enes Kočan
- Iva Dragojević
- Melika Haračić
- Merjema Kadić
- Samra Mida Mesihović
The participants were selected based on their motivation, openness to intercultural learning, interest in sustainability and cooking, as well as their readiness to actively contribute to group dynamics and the overall project experience.
Project Objectives
Through this youth exchange, participants will:
- reconnect with themselves and others by reducing digital distractions,
- explore cultural diversity through cooking and shared meals,
- develop teamwork and communication skills in an international environment,
- strengthen creativity, self-awareness, and resource management,
- experience sustainable and minimalistic living practices,
- engage with local communities and apply their learning in real-life settings,
- build meaningful international friendships and networks.
Participant Profile
The project is intended for:
- young people aged 18–25,
- individuals interested in cooking, cultural exchange, and teamwork,
- participants open to living in a rural, minimalistic environment,
- those willing to disconnect from digital devices and engage fully in the experience.
Participants are expected to:
- actively participate in all activities,
- be present for the full duration of the project,
- communicate in English,
- contribute to a positive and inclusive group atmosphere.
Accommodation, Food & Travel
Participants will be accommodated in Mrachenik, a small rural village located in the Sredna Gora region, known for its natural beauty and peaceful environment.
Accommodation, food, and travel costs will be covered in accordance with Erasmus+ rules. The hosting organization will reimburse travel expenses individually, based on internal and programme regulations.
The setting offers a unique opportunity to experience quiet rural life, nature, and local culture, with basic but comfortable living conditions and shared community spaces.
About the Hosting Organization
Smokinya Foundation is a youth-focused organization based in Bulgaria, dedicated to personal growth, cultural exchange, and social change.
Through volunteering projects, training programs, and community initiatives, Smokinya empowers young people to develop essential life skills, engage with diverse cultures, and create meaningful impact in their communities.
Final Note
We congratulate our selected participants and wish them a meaningful, inspiring, and transformative experience in Bulgaria.
We would also like to thank all applicants for their interest, motivation, and commitment to participating in BRAVO opportunities and contributing to youth work and international cooperation.
More about BRAVO you can see on our video below: