ACT NOW took place in Paredes, Porto, Portugal, from the 7th to 13h of July, 2026

7 of July, 2026

ARRIVAL

8 of July, 2026

First Day | Daily Report by Cyprus

On the first day of the ACT+ training, we got to know each other through icebreakers, discussions, and team-building activities. We explored our fears, expectations, and contributions, established group agreements, and completed collaborative challenges, including the Marshmallow Challenge and the Three Monkeys activity, which highlighted the importance of communication and inclusion.

Despite starting the day tired from travelling, the welcoming atmosphere quickly created a positive group dynamic. The activities helped us build trust, reflect on teamwork, and understand the value of patience, collaboration, and empathy when facing communication barriers. The day ended with a group reflection, leaving us motivated for the rest of the training.

9 of July, 2026

Second Day | Daily Report by Romania

The day began with a problem-solving challenge that encouraged teamwork and creative thinking, followed by an activity where international groups designed a website for the ACT+ project using AI tools. In the afternoon, we created natural paints from everyday ingredients and used them to produce artwork, learning about sustainable and eco-friendly creative practices. We also prepared activities for people with disabilities and ended the day with an intercultural evening, sharing traditions, dances, languages, and food from each participating country.

Throughout the day, we strengthened our communication, collaboration, and creativity while discovering different perspectives and cultures. We learned that inclusion means valuing everyone's ideas and talents, and that meaningful connections can be built through art, teamwork, and cultural exchange.

10 of July, 2026

Third Day | Daily Report by Italy

The day began with a visit to Porto, where we explored the city before visiting the Casa da Viscondessa de Santiago de Lobão, a rehabilitation and social care centre for young adults with motor and intellectual disabilities. Together with the residents and caregivers, we shared dances, songs, and cultural traditions, creating meaningful connections through art and interaction.

Although many participants initially felt uncertain, the experience quickly turned into one of the most memorable moments of the project. We learned that inclusion is built through genuine human connection, empathy, and shared experiences, while also gaining a deeper appreciation for the everyday challenges faced by people with disabilities. The day left us inspired, grateful, and reminded us of the true value of kindness and togetherness.

11 of July, 2026

Fourth Day | Daily Report by Morocco

Today was a creative and inspiring day. We started with an energizer led by the Italian team, followed by workshops where we made cardboard sardines and explored natural colors using ingredients like turmeric and beetroot. After lunch, the Romanian team led another energizer before we created art with recycled cardboard in the Cardboard Beats activity. We also reflected on what we had learned and ended the day by continuing our experiments with natural colors. Throughout the day, we strengthened our creativity, teamwork, and communication skills while discovering that art can be both sustainable and environmentally friendly. The sentence we will remember is: "Creativity grows when we work together and make the most of nature and recycled materials."

12 of July, 2026

Last Day | Daily Report by Portugal

On the last day of the project, we started with the Portugal energizer, finished our sardines and sun chemistry activities, and presented our mobiles about inclusion. After lunch, we enjoyed the Cyprus energizer, reflected on the skills we developed, and shared how we had changed since the beginning of the Erasmus. We ended the day by receiving our Youthpasses and celebrating together at the farewell dinner.

It was a meaningful day filled with creativity, connection, and reflection. We strengthened our teamwork, communication, and intercultural skills while learning that art can promote inclusion, self-expression, and social change.