Cruelty Free Fashion Project Brings Together Conscious Fashion and International Cooperation in Budapest

The Erasmus+ Youth Exchange “Cruelty Free Fashion” (Project No. 2022-3-HU01-KA152-YOU-000093353) took place in Budapest, Hungary, from 22 to 29 September 2023, hosted by Tudatos Tervezésért Egyesület. The project brought together Long Term Planning from Hungary, Asociația Universul Adolescenților from Romania, SHAFT ORGANIZATION from Türkiye, Centrum pro ochranu zvirat PAFF z.s from Czechia, Black Wood Environmental Biedrība from Latvia, and Comunità di Supereroi from Italy to promote animal-friendly and ethical fashion practices.

Participants gained comprehensive knowledge about the Youthpass certificate and the eight key competences that underpin it, learning how the knowledge and skills acquired through Erasmus+ projects can be made visible and recognized. Through informative materials and discussions, the young people explored ways to apply these competences in their education, careers, and civic lives.

A collaborative jigsaw activity then brought together participants from different countries around a common goal. The exercise strengthened cooperation, communication, and problem-solving skills while providing a practical experience of mutual respect, tolerance, and intercultural solidarity.

Following a detailed introduction to the project’s content, working methods, and safety guidelines, the participants visited local businesses in small groups. By engaging with local residents and presenting the Erasmus+ programme and the project’s objectives, they became more familiar with Budapest and gained confidence in foreign-language use and public communication.

The programme concluded with a creative evaluation session that enabled participants to reflect collectively on their experiences. Through shared feedback, the learning outcomes became more visible, while critical thinking and self-assessment skills were further enhanced.