The third and final LTTA (Learning, Teaching, Training Activity) of the Rural Entrepreneurship for You(th) project took place at Goloka Ecofarm community in Pontinvrea, Italy from the 4th to 10th July, 2024, gathering youth from partner organizations. The venue of the activity was changed compared to the original plan to have it organised in Ukraine, but the unfortunate war that has been raging in the country since 2022 made it impossible to organise the last LTTA in accordance with the project plans that were developed prior to the Vis major event in Ukraine. After prolonged discussions considering the prevailing situation partner organizations unanimously and responsibly decided not to take risks by organising the third LTTA activity in Ukraine, and shifted the venue of the project meeting to Italy.
During the five days of the activity we offered a colourful, rich and variegated program for the young participants.
Day 1: Introduction, YouthPass, and Entrepreneurship
The training began with an introduction session, where participants got to know each other and learned about Goloka Ecofarm’s vision and sustainable practices.
One of the key activities of the day was the introduction to YouthPass facilitated by Natalia Popenko and Alberto Cannone. Using MEtime cards, a creative visual tool, participants explored their learning journey in a playful and interactive way. In the afternoon, Yuri Tantsura led an online session on the connection between agriculture and cow protection, followed by a discussion on entrepreneurship possibilities for youth in rural areas facilitated by György Kirs. The day ended with a reflection session and joint cultural activities.
Day 2: Exploring Goloka Ecofarm & Art Therapy Workshop
Participants began the day with a guided visit around Goloka Ecofarm, gaining insight into its sustainable agricultural model and community-driven initiatives.
The afternoon focused on Art Therapy and Pottery, where participants engaged in a hands-on clay workshop led by Chiara Contatore. This session allowed them to explore self-expression through creative activities. The day concluded with a reflection session where participants shared their experiences and insights from the workshop.
Day 3: Eco-Tourism, Forest Bathing, and Cheese-Making
The morning session was dedicated to eco-tourism and well-being, where Marco Bo from Richiamo del Bosco introduced participants to the practice and theory of forest bathing. A hiking experience in the nearby forest provided an opportunity to connect with nature and explore the therapeutic benefits of the natural environment.
In the afternoon, a cheese-making workshop took place, where participants learned traditional techniques of making cheese using local cow milk. This session was complemented by a Social Media Communication workshop, facilitated by Gaia Carazzato, where participants learned how to create and manage engaging content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram to promote eco-friendly initiatives and rural entrepreneurship.
Day 4: Rural Entrepreneurship & Sustainable Businesses
The focus of the fourth day was starting and managing rural enterprises. Clupea – Grata Poletta a resident of the popular Damanhur Ecovillage facilitated a practical workshop on cultivating plants and producing natural detergents without using any artificial chemicals, demonstrating how sustainable businesses can thrive in an eco-village setting.
Later, participants visited the “Holy Beach” vegan restaurant in Cogoleto, where they learned about entrepreneurial opportunities in the plant-based catering industry from Erica Garaventa who has been running the restaurant for several years. This visit provided inspiration to the young participants on how sustainability and business can go hand in hand.
Day 5: Food Production & Beekeeping Business
The final day of training included a hands-on session at Food For Life Bakery, where participants learned the process of baking cookies using organic ingredients. This session emphasized the importance of ethical and sustainable food production.
In the afternoon project participants met Melanie and her husband, who shared their journey of establishing Melanie’s House – an eco-friendly Bed & Breakfast and Beekeeping Farmstead. This session gave insight into sustainable tourism and small-scale rural business models.
The training concluded with an evaluation session, where participants reflected on their learning experiences and personal growth. The evening ended with a farewell dinner and campfire, marking the end of an enriching and inspiring week.
Conclusion
The third and final LTTA of the Rural Entrepreneurship for You(th) project left a lasting impact on all participants. Through pragmatic workshops, networking, and cultural exchange, participants gained valuable skills, business insights, and a deeper understanding of sustainable rural entrepreneurship.
As the final group photo was taken, the air was filled with laughter, gratitude, and the glow of fireflies, illuminating the road back through the forest—a symbol of the light that this training has brought to our journeys.
