Between April 5th and 13th, 2025, 32 young volunteers from Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, France, Germany, Latvia, and Slovakia came together in Bansko, Bulgaria, for “Play & Resolve: Gamified Solutions for Peacebuilding,” a project led by Alternativi International.
Over the course of nine days, participants immersed themselves in a dynamic learning experience that blended theory, hands-on activities, and play. Together, we explored the foundations and purpose of peacebuilding, along with practical tools for fostering empathy, collaboration, and conflict resolution.
A major highlight of the training was discovering how gamification can bring serious social topics to life. Through escape rooms, board games, and interactive challenges, we learned how play can serve as a powerful vehicle for meaningful learning.
We didn’t just test existing games—we also designed our own, inspired by real-world social issues that matter to us. The process revealed just how powerful and creative learning can become when it’s driven by play and personal engagement.
“Gamification is at the core of revolutions”
― Vineet Raj Kapoor
What made the experience truly memorable, however, was the people. Youth workers, educators, and community leaders from across Europe shared their stories, cultures, and ideas, creating a space of mutual inspiration and growth. Non-formal education and active participation brought us closer, encouraging open dialogue and collaboration.
As we returned to our countries, we brought with us not only new tools and ideas but also a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger connection to a wider European community. What started as a training course grew into a collective journey of learning, creativity, and lasting impact—one that continues beyond the week we spent in Bulgaria.
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