My Erasmus+ Experience 🌍
Investing in a Sustainable Future
I usually write about investing—stocks, dividends, startups, and strategies for financial growth. But today, I want to talk about a different kind of investment—one that goes beyond portfolios and into the future of our planet. 🌱
I recently participated in an Erasmus+ program in Vilnius, Lithuania, focused on Zero Waste, sustainability, and practical solutions for a greener future. The name of the program was “Holistic Organizational Practices for Environment“ or HOPE This experience reinforced an important lesson: sustainability isn’t just an environmental choice; it’s a long-term strategy for both society and the economy.
🌍 What is Erasmus+?
Erasmus+ is a European Union program that provides funding for education, training, youth, and sports projects across Europe and beyond. It offers opportunities for students, professionals, and organizations to participate in international exchanges, training courses, and sustainability-focused programs.
Whether you're interested in environmental initiatives, entrepreneurship, or cultural exchange, Erasmus+ programs provide a fully funded experience to learn, travel, and collaborate with like-minded individuals from different countries. 🌎
💡 How to Apply for Erasmus+?
Applying for an Erasmus+ program is simple:
✅ Find a program – Look for available Erasmus+ training courses, youth exchanges, or study programs through organizations, universities, or websites like SALTO Youth and Erasmus+ platforms.
✅ Check eligibility – Most programs are open to young people, students, or professionals with an interest in the topic.
✅ Submit your application – Fill out a short application form, explaining why you want to join. Some programs may ask for a motivation letter.
✅ Get selected & join the adventure! – If selected, you’ll receive funding to cover travel, accommodation, and food while learning in an international environment.
You don’t have to be a student to apply—many Erasmus+ programs are open to young professionals, activists, and entrepreneurs looking to expand their skills and network globally.
🌱 Key Learnings from My Erasmus+ Experience
📌 Zero Waste in Action – At Vingis Park, we showcased creative sculptures made from waste found around Vilnius, proving that art and sustainability can go hand in hand.
📌 Hydroponic Gardening & Food Waste Solutions – Our visit to Miesto Laboratorija – Bendruomenės edukacijos centras introduced us to hydroponic farming, a soil-free way to grow food efficiently. We also learned about the Food Waste Calculator, a tool helping individuals and restaurants track and reduce food waste.
📌 Community Fridges & Circular Economy – The visit also highlighted how community fridges play a role in reducing food waste and supporting those in need, aligning with circular economy principles.
📌 Creative Upcycling – Using recycled materials like tennis balls, participants turned waste into art, demonstrating the power of reusing everyday items in innovative ways.
📌 Cultural Exchange & Sustainability – Beyond the environmental lessons, I also got to experience a traditional Portuguese folk song performance, showing how culture and sustainability can intersect in meaningful ways.
🌏 A Global Learning Experience
One of the best parts of the program? The people! I had the opportunity to exchange ideas with participants from Poland, Lithuania, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, and Portugal. These conversations gave me fresh perspectives on global sustainability challenges and practical solutions that different countries are implementing.
💡 Why This Matters
As an investor, I always look at long-term trends and future opportunities. Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Companies that embrace eco-friendly solutions and circular economy models will likely lead in innovation and market resilience.
This experience reinforced a core principle: just like financial investments compound over time, so do actions towards sustainability. The choices we make today will shape the world we live in tomorrow. 🌱💰
Want to learn more about Erasmus+? Feel free to reach out, and I’ll be happy to guide you! 🚀
What’s your take on investing in sustainability? Do you think it’s a growing opportunity? Hit reply and let’s discuss! 👇
Stay curious, stay invested!
