How can creativity bring together people of different ages, interests and abilities? What kinds of activities help adults not only learn new skills but also make friends, communicate and feel part of a community?

These questions were at the heart of a learning mobility for a group of adult learners from Craft Depo in Burgas, Bulgaria, in August 2024.

The mobility took place within the European Union's Erasmus+ programme, Adult Education sector.

Project number: 2023-1-EE01-KA121-ADU-000140168

Mobility type: Group Mobility of Adult Learners.

The theme of the educational programme was “Opportunities for Creative Activities for Different Social Groups.”

The hosting organisation was Narodno Chitalishte “Far 1946”, a community cultural and educational centre that supports creative activities and community life.

The programme offered a wide range of experiences. Participants explored Bulgarian traditional crafts and cultural heritage, tried weaving, took part in creative workshops, discovered traditional ornaments and even learned Bulgarian folk dances.

One of the most valuable experiences was discovering how local organisations use creativity to promote social inclusion. During joint workshops with the Burgas Social Centre, participants saw how arts and crafts help people with disabilities develop practical skills, communicate and take an active part in community life.

Another interesting discovery was a visit to a modern library, where traditional library services are combined with digital and interactive technologies. This offered a fresh perspective on the possibilities of adult learning.

The most important outcome of the mobility was not only the acquisition of new creative skills but also a deeper understanding of how art can connect people from different backgrounds. Participants discovered new ways of organising creative activities, broadened their understanding of cultural diversity and returned home with ideas they could apply in their own creative and community activities.

The learning mobility was financially supported by the European Union's Erasmus+ programme.

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