Building the Roots of Resilience

The day began with a Lithuanian breakfast that brought everyone together around culture, conversation, and shared experience. These intercultural mornings are slowly becoming one of the most special parts of the project, simple moments where participants discover each other’s traditions not through presentations, but through everyday experiences, food, stories, and conversations around the table.

After breakfast, participants took part in a reflective activity called “Resilience Trees.” Using creativity and personal reflection, everyone explored the roots, strengths, and support systems that help people stay strong during difficult times. Some participants reflected on family and friendships, others on community, personal growth, or inner strength. The activity became a quiet but meaningful reminder that resilience rarely develops alone, it grows through connection, support, and experience.

Later in the day, the group moved into one of the most engaging sessions so far: a structured debate about the roles of individuals and governments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants explored how different countries responded to the crisis and discussed questions that still remain relevant today. Who carries the greatest responsibility during a crisis? How much should governments control? What role does individual responsibility play in protecting communities?

The discussions quickly became thoughtful, emotional, and full of different perspectives. Participants challenged each other’s ideas, defended arguments, and listened to experiences shaped by different national realities during the pandemic. More than simply debating, the activity encouraged participants to think critically about leadership, trust, responsibility, and collective action during uncertain times.

In the final session of the day, participants stepped into role-play activities where they became healthcare workers, government officials, and community leaders facing the challenges of the pandemic. Working in groups, they discussed how each sector could contribute to protecting society and supporting communities during crisis situations.

The role-plays brought a practical side to the discussions. Participants had to make decisions, cooperate under pressure, and think about how communication, trust, and collaboration affect people during emergencies. The presentations and follow-up discussions created space for deeper reflection on how communities respond when faced with uncertainty.

By the end of the day, one thing became very clear: resilience is not only about surviving difficult situations. It is about how people support each other, adapt together, and continue moving forward even during challenging times.

This project is funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the European Union or the Youth International Program Agency.

Neither the European Union nor the awarding authority can be held responsible for them.

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