Apply for the Training Course “Back to the Village

Dates: 22-28 March 2026 (including travel days)
Location: Munilla, La Rioja, Spain

Description

Are you interested in participating in a unique training course titled “Back to the Village” and sharing experiences with youth workers from Spain, Italy, Hungary, Slovenia, Lithuania, Portugal, and France?

“Back to the Village” aims to empower youth workers and volunteers by providing the context, tools, methods, and networks needed to overcome the challenges of isolation and limited opportunities faced by young people in rural areas.

The training will take place in Munilla, a perfect setting to explore the realities of rural exodus in Spain. The village is rich in character, with old stone houses, narrow streets, and the authentic atmosphere of a traditional mountain community in La Rioja. Participants will also have the opportunity to experience the region’s capital, renowned for one of Spain’s most celebrated gastronomic traditions—especially its famous pinchos.

Project aim is: 
Developing professional competencies for working with youth in rural environments.
Promoting active participation of young people in their communities.
Sharing innovative practices and methods in youth work adapted to rural contexts.
To encourage creativity and local initiatives among rural youth.
Addressing challenges specific to rural youth, such as isolation and lack of leisure opportunities.

Beside the training days, participants will have free activities, visit to natural volcanic spring waters, hike natural paths in the mountains and three national evenings!

Participants
We are looking for 3 youth workers from Macedonia, between 18 and 40 years old.  Experienced in youth work or in non-formal education (as staff, volunteer, intern, student…) and have any link to non-urban areas (lives or works in villages or towns, was grown in a rural area, has any special interest in the rural world…)

Costs

Accommodation and meals will be fully covered during the activity days. Maximum travel budget is 309 EUR. Travel reimbursement is explained in the infopack.

How to apply?

Before applying please read carefully the terms of participation and the infopack. 
In order to apply please fill out this application form. 
Applications are open until 1 February 2026. Only selected participants will be contacted.