In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, OWC made the crucial decision to transition the annual WGT Conference to an online format. Despite the challenges posed by international travel restrictions, a dedicated team of young leaders from partner NGOs worldwide came together to organize this virtual conference. Youth Empowerment Albania (YEA) played a key role in this event, showcasing their commitment and expertise in the Erasmus+ program.
YEA’s Contribution to the Conference
YEA’s involvement in the WGT Conference 2020 was instrumental, with their contributions spanning multiple aspects of the event:
- Management, Design, and Technical Skills: YEA provided essential support in organizing the conference, utilizing their management, design, and technical expertise to ensure a smooth and successful online experience.
- Leading a Co-Creation Table: The team led a Co-Creation Table, facilitating interactive discussions and collaborative sessions that enriched the conference experience.
- Hosting a “Campfire” Activity: YEA hosted a “Campfire” activity, fostering informal yet impactful conversations and networking opportunities among participants.
- Storytelling about YEA’s Inspiring Erasmus+ Journey: YEA shared their remarkable journey and achievements in the Erasmus+ program, highlighting their contributions and experiences.
Global Participation and Collaboration
The WGT Conference 2020 brought together a diverse group of young people from across the globe. Participants hailed from Albania, Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, France, Georgia, Netherlands, Kenya, Kurdistan-Iraq, Nepal, Romania, Rwanda, Slovenia, Sudan, Syria, Sweden, Ukraine, and newly added OWC countries. The conference successfully initiated global collaboration and dialogue, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation during challenging times.
Conclusion
The transition to an online format for the WGT Conference 2020 was a significant undertaking, and YEA’s active participation was pivotal to its success. Their contributions in management, co-creation, and storytelling not only highlighted their role in the Erasmus+ community but also demonstrated their ability to adapt and lead in a virtual environment. The conference marked a successful effort in fostering global connections and collaboration, even amidst the constraints of the pandemic.
Keywords: WGT Conference 2020, Youth Empowerment Albania, OWC, online conference, Erasmus+ program, global collaboration, virtual event management, international youth conference
