When curiosity meets courage and friendship crosses borders – magic happens. That’s exactly what happened as young people from Ireland and Macedonia set out on a journey that turned strangers into friends and landscapes into lifelong memories.
Macedonia-Ireland Limerick Youth Center Exchange brought together 24 young adventurers for a two-part Erasmus+ exchange – first in Limerick, Ireland (June 2025), and then in Struga, Macedonia (October 2025), two countries and a journey that explored the magic of Macedonia, from treasure hunt to traditional feasts and discovered how culture, nature and laughter can create memories that last lifetime.
The reunion was filled with heartfelt hugs and joyful tears as participants from both countries met again. This inspiring exchange unfolded among the breathtaking landscapes of Ohrid and Struga, combining outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and personal growth, was an experience that created lifelong memories and friendships across borders, adventure where friendship blooms, cultures collide and every moment is a story waiting to be told!
During the exchange, participants shared experiences, good practices, and creative activities – from cultural tours of Skopje and Treasure Hunt challenges in Struga, by which they explored the most fascinating places in Struga, to visits at the Youth Center in Ohrid and its inspiring local initiatives and activities.
Cultural exploration continued with a visit to Ohrid – the Pearl of the Balkan, the Antic Amphitheater and a magical boat tour to the monastery of St. Naum.
The program’s activities focused on cultural heritage, social values, traditions, languages, inclusion, equality, youth migration, digital creativity, leadership, and civic participation. Each activity was designed to foster teamwork, leadership, intercultural understanding, and cultural awareness.
Workshops and group discussions deepened participants’ understanding of each other’s cultures. These sessions offered valuable moments to reflect on similarities, celebrate differences, and strengthen the spirit of European unity.
Another unforgettable highlight was the visit to Kaneo, St. Naum and the Bay of Bones, the Vevchani Springs – experiences that enriched everyone’s appreciation about Macedonian rich history and cultural legacy.
At the closing ceremony in Struga, participants received their Youthpass certificates – a meaningful recognition of the skills, knowledge, and experiences they gained. The evening concluded with a joyful Macedonian Night, featuring traditional dishes, music, and dancing. It marked not only the end of a youth exchange but also the beginning of new opportunities for learning, growth, and lifelong friendships.
Among all the achievements, the bonds formed between Irish and Macedonian participants stood out as truly special. Despite differences in language or culture, everyone discovered how much they shared — dreams, values, and a desire to make a positive impact in the world.
This Erasmus+ experience in Macedonia became more than just an exchange — it was a journey of discovery, empathy, and transformation. It reminded us of the beauty of nature, the importance of understanding others, and the joy of stepping beyond our comfort zones.
As we returned home, we carried not only photographs and souvenirs, but also new perspectives, friendships, and lessons that will stay with us for a lifetime. The Irish participants left amazed by the beauty of Ohrid and Struga — places where history breathes through every stone and where the past and present meet beside the blue waters of the lake.
“We arrived as travelers, but left as a family — with hearts full of stories and dreams for the next adventure.”
Ilina Minoska
