Freedom to Discover
C.H.O.I.R.
Erasmus + Youth Exchange
Ohrid, North Macedonia
13 August to 27 August 2025
Looking Back at C.H.O.I.R.s Harmonizing
In August, the historic lakeside city of Ohrid came alive with voices from across Europe during C.H.O.I.R.s Harmonizing, a two-week youth exchange filled with music, culture, and new friendships.
Young singers from the Netherlands and North Macedonia came together to create something far beyond concerts. We shared traditions, learned from each other’s stories, and built connections that crossed languages and borders. Each day was different: singing under the sun, reflection circles in nature, creative workshops, hiking trips, and evenings filled with laughter and song.
What we did together
Group talks, creative workshops, from building instruments out of recycled materials to making “Day in the Life” videos
Intercultural exchanges, learning each others language, playing games, and learning songs together from both countries
Community moments, singing on streets and connecting with local audiences
Reflection circles, where young people shared openly about what they were learning
Exploring Ohrid together, from nature hikes to cultural visits, always with music close by
The Impact
During C.H.O.I.R.s Harmonizing, participants gained confidence, practiced leadership, and discovered how powerful it feels to be heard. The youngsters got to organize activities, and care for one another as a group. They shaped the workshops, took decisions together, and showed us that music is not only performed, but lived.
But the impact went further. In mixed groups, during one of the workshops, the youngsters began to dream up their own Erasmus+ projects! Their creativity showed us that youth exchanges don’t just build friendships, they plant seeds for the future.
This energy also resonated outside the group. We were honoured by a visit from the Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands, who came to listen to the songs we had learned together. Meeting members of the Dutch community who had made North Macedonia their home made the experience even richer, reminding us that projects like these connect across borders and generations.
C.H.O.I.R.s Harmonizing reminded us that harmony is found not in perfection, but in authenticity, creativity, and the courage to listen to one another.
Gratitude
We are deeply grateful to Erasmus+, to our partners, and most of all to the young people who brought their voices, energy, and openness. Together, they showed us that when voices unite, they can carry more than melodies — they carry connection, hope, and the promise of a better future.
And this was just the beginning. C.H.O.I.R. 2.0 is on its way — more voices, more creativity, and more unforgettable moments
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