“My first Erasmus+ experience in Filadelfia, Italy, organized by Arte Diem Calabria, opened a new chapter for me. It inspired me to explore new cultures, meet amazing people, and dive into meaningful topics that sparked my interest in future projects.
From the very beginning, we felt truly welcomed and accepted, as if the program had been waiting just for us. The warm atmosphere, sense of belonging, and unexpected closeness that formed between us, despite our differences, showed how those very differences are what connect us the most. Workshops like the Human Library reminded us that our stories shape who we are. They awakened empathy, deepened connection, and created space for shared growth. Group work taught us that community is the foundation of true progress and that together, we can do so much more.
Thanks to the incredible dedication of Arte Diem Calabria, an Italian organization that gives art a special place in understanding the world and the people who make it unique, the whole experience felt even more meaningful. It went beyond my expectations and gave me a new perspective on the world and on myself. Through the art and culture of others, we found pieces of ourselves and planted seeds of personal growth.” – Lamija Tufekčić
“To say that this project was straight out of the fairytale would be an understatement. From our castle-like accommodation in Filadelfia to the magical Italian seaside in Tropea and Pizzo, it all felt like a dream. All six of us had the best possible first experience and I am eternally grateful to our project coordinators Emanuel and Rocco, who took perfect care of everyone and everything. Their professionalism, kindness and openness was truly on another level and I am lucky to have worked with such incredible mentors who reinvigorated my love for history, mythology and art.
The project was masterfully organised and there was never a single dull moment. I was truly taken aback with the overall mood and atmosphere. The safe space that was created allowed us to develop connections, empathy, understanding and respect on a much deeper level than I could have ever imagined. My role as a Team Leader never felt tiring or overwhelming. On the contrary, the role gave me much satisfaction and, ultimately, I was able to gain valuable experience in a leadership position. Much of this is thanks to my teammates, with whom I had an impeccable connection and communication.
This Erasmus+ project taught me to be less hesitant and to bravely follow my curiosity. It showed me the value of action and enabled me to lean in my skills and abilities like never before. The hardest part of it all was coming back home, back to reality, with a suitcase full of invaluable memories. The second hardest part is describing all of this to someone else. After all, words become futile devices and only by experiencing can one truly understand.” – Azra Duvnjak
“Spending a week in Filadelfia, Calabria for the “Arts Myths Culture” youth exchange was truly life-changing. Through art and deep conversations about culture, identity, and personal struggles, I learned not to hold myself back. I discovered the importance of being unapologetically myself, of speaking my truth, and expressing what I believe. That’s how you attract people who genuinely love you for who you are—not who you pretend to be. The team-building activities were not only fun and engaging but also helped us open up and connect in meaningful ways. I met people who quickly became some of the most important souls in my life— best friends I already miss and can’t wait to see again. Every day brought new memories, but the nights were my favorite: the late-night talks, walks, laughs, drinks, and complete honesty—those quiet, goofy, real moments where we truly got to know each other. This experience helped me grow so much as a person—it reminded me of what fulfills me: connection, creativity, adventure. I feel more alive than ever, and more inspired to keep seeking out new people, cultures, and stories. This wasn’t just a project—it was a beautiful turning point in my life, and I’ll carry it with me always.” – Hana Čizmić
“Firstly, before I even start to elaborate on my personal experience, there is no way around mentioning Italy as a whole, the region of Calabria, as well as the beautiful town of Filadelfia. The places, the people, the tradition and the food are unique and incomparable. Italians really cherish their history and culture, which both reflect on their way of living. They keep ancient parts of their history alive through stories, food and cheerful events full of music, dancing, delicious meals and lots of laughter. The whole atmosphere feels like a warm welcoming hug.
The project “Art Myths Culture” taught all of the participants new things about each culture and it made us connect individually on a deeper level. We found similarities between countries and taught each other about the differences. I have been inspired by so many amazing people, with different stories from various backgrounds. This project really broadened my horizons and worked on parts of myself that I did not know could still improve. I will forever cherish this opportunity and speak of it highly. It is truly an experience that engraves in your heart. Throughout this entire project, I felt more alive than ever before.” – Almina Musić
“The decision to participate in the „Art Myths Culture” project was one of the best I’ve made in my life. I just felt like it was going to be a special experience, and I was right. Staying in a small city in the south of Italy, called Filadelfia, felt like a wonderful dream from which I never want to wake up. The hosting organization “Arte Diem Calabria” made that dream come true.
I got the opportunity to meet new cultures, express my creativity, learn about the traditions of other countries, but most importantly, make friends and meet people who will forever be engraved in my heart. Creating art, singing and dancing until late at night and creating bonds with people I never knew I would meet has truly changed my perception on what life should be. This experience changed me forever and I´m beyond grateful for that. It gave me motivation to continue doing what I do, creating art, and it has taught me that there are still people full of beauty, full of hope and full of life all around us.” – Elma Fazlić
“When I was applying for the exchange project Art Myths Culture, I had the hopes and expectations that were surpassed in all ways. Each and every day and the activities were beyond productive, educational, and inspirational. The incredibly talented facilitators Emanuel Caristi and Rocco Burdino were there at all times to provide us support, mentorship, and assist us on the path of getting to know ourselves and each other.
The schedule of each day was meticulously planned out, with a wide variety of dynamic and personal activities. We made art in all forms; we painted, made clay sculptures, wrote stories, recorded podcasts, made a human library, shared our experiences with the group, shared our life with our new friends, we cried, laughed, ate together, took walks during the breaks, sat outside during the night, and bonded in ways I never thought were possible. Every new day was a story of its own; we never knew what to expect, and it would always be better than the last thing we did. The trip we had to Tropea and Pizzo was a transformative experience.
The exposure to the soul of southern Italy first-hand moved me profoundly. During the trip, we kept mentioning how grateful we are for the opportunity and how lucky to be the ones who were granted this experience. It was my first project, but it will most certainly remain the one I will always remember and hold dear to my heart, soul, and mind. It has altered my approach to life, given me friends who I cherish and still talk to every day. I am forever grateful to BRAVO organization for choosing us to represent our country, Kenan, who guided us on our path and was there at all times, whenever we needed anything, and to Arte Diem Calabria, its Emanuel and Rocco, for giving me the gift of wonder, joy, acceptance and warmth.” – Iman Delibašić