erasmus+ Youth Exchange
ROOTS & WAVES: YOUNG PEOPLE SHAPING SUSTAINABLE COASTAL COMMUNITIES
24th of June - 30th of June 2026 | Soulac sur Mer, France
YOUTH AS ACTIVE AGENTS IN PROTECTING AND REVITALIZING COASTAL ECOSYSTEMS, COMBINING OUTDOOR WELL-BEING, DEMOCRATIC VOICE, AND DIGITAL STORYTELLING.
“Roots & Waves” is a youth exchange that invites young people from across Europe to collectively explore the relationship between coastal nature, well-being and active citizenship — using the outdoors as a space for connection, reflection and change.
Rooted in the living landscape of Soulac-sur-Mer, where the Atlantic Ocean meets ancient dunes and pine forests, the exchange brings together young people from diverse backgrounds who share a curiosity for the world around them and a desire to shape it.
The ocean is more than a backdrop. It is a teacher. The rhythm of the waves, the openness of the horizon, the fragility of the coastline — these elements create a powerful environment for slowing down, listening deeply and finding one’s voice. For many young people, especially those with fewer opportunities or disconnected from nature, this encounter can open new pathways for confidence, belonging and engagement.
Through this exchange, participants will explore how outdoor and coastal environments can become spaces for democratic participation, intercultural dialogue and green action. Together, they will share experiences, co-create local responses to global challenges, and give shape to a collective vision for more sustainable and inclusive communities.
While the exchange is particularly meaningful for young people with an interest in nature, environment or active lifestyles, it is equally open to those who have never seen the ocean — and are ready to let it surprise them.
Rooted in the living landscape of Soulac-sur-Mer, where the Atlantic Ocean meets ancient dunes and pine forests, the exchange brings together young people from diverse backgrounds who share a curiosity for the world around them and a desire to shape it.
The ocean is more than a backdrop. It is a teacher. The rhythm of the waves, the openness of the horizon, the fragility of the coastline — these elements create a powerful environment for slowing down, listening deeply and finding one’s voice. For many young people, especially those with fewer opportunities or disconnected from nature, this encounter can open new pathways for confidence, belonging and engagement.
Through this exchange, participants will explore how outdoor and coastal environments can become spaces for democratic participation, intercultural dialogue and green action. Together, they will share experiences, co-create local responses to global challenges, and give shape to a collective vision for more sustainable and inclusive communities.
While the exchange is particularly meaningful for young people with an interest in nature, environment or active lifestyles, it is equally open to those who have never seen the ocean — and are ready to let it surprise them.
ROOTS & WAVES: YOUNG PEOPLE SHAPING SUSTAINABLE COASTAL COMMUNITIES
Accommodation
We have chosen the beautiful VVF Soulac-sur-Mer Bordeaux Médoc for our stay. You will be accommodated in multiple rooms, and you will be able (as all guests) to enjoy the entire structure.
All meals will be organised by us, depending on the location of the activities.
We will do our best to accommodate all dietary needs; however, due to logistical constraints, the variety of options may sometimes be limited. We kindly ask for your understanding.
Travel reimbursement:
All meals will be organised by us, depending on the location of the activities.
We will do our best to accommodate all dietary needs; however, due to logistical constraints, the variety of options may sometimes be limited. We kindly ask for your understanding.
Travel reimbursement:
10 – 99 km | 56 EUR | 28 EUR |
100 – 499 km | 285 EUR | 211 EUR |
500 – 1999 km | 417 EUR | 309 EUR |
2000 – 2999 km | 535 EUR | 395 EUR |
3000 – 3999 km | 785 EUR | 580 EUR |
4000 – 7999 km | 1188 EUR | 1188 EUR |
8000 km or more | 1735 EUR | 1735 EUR |
This youth exchange is designed for young people who are curious, open and ready to engage — with nature, with each other and with the world around them. No prior experience in surf, sport or outdoor activities is required. What matters is the motivation to participate fully and the willingness to grow.
Participants are expected to join individually through their sending organization, and the exchange will bring together a total of approximately 25 young people from 4 partner countries: Latvia, Italy, Estonia, the Netherlands and France/Guadeloupe.
Priority is given to young people aged 16 to 19, with particular attention to those who have had fewer opportunities — whether due to geographical, social, economic, or personal circumstances. We are especially encouraged to welcome young people from island and coastal communities, as well as those with limited exposure to international or non-formal learning environments.
We are aware that not every participant will have the same background or level of confidence. If you feel this programme speaks to your aspirations and you identify with the values described here — please apply. This exchange is built on the belief that diversity of experience is its greatest strength.
Participants are expected to join individually through their sending organization, and the exchange will bring together a total of approximately 25 young people from 4 partner countries: Latvia, Italy, Estonia, the Netherlands and France/Guadeloupe.
Priority is given to young people aged 16 to 19, with particular attention to those who have had fewer opportunities — whether due to geographical, social, economic, or personal circumstances. We are especially encouraged to welcome young people from island and coastal communities, as well as those with limited exposure to international or non-formal learning environments.
We are aware that not every participant will have the same background or level of confidence. If you feel this programme speaks to your aspirations and you identify with the values described here — please apply. This exchange is built on the belief that diversity of experience is its greatest strength.
Draft agenda:
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YE ROOTS & WAVES: YOUNG PEOPLE SHAPING SUSTAINABLE COASTAL COMMUNITIES
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