Last 2nd of June took place in Porto (Portugal) the Final Conference of the Erasmus+ KA2 project “Social Digital Mentors”. The project, promoted by ESMOVIA, has been  developed during the last 2 years in collaboration with partners from Italy, Greece and Portugal.

During these 2 years, all the partners have been working on the development of a training guide about mentoring, digital identity, digital reputation and different tools to manage social media that can be used by long term unemployed adult learners job seekers for creating, maintaining and improving their digital identity, their curriculum and promote their entrepreneurship abilities.

One of the most interesting activities in the project hast been the training session of 1 week duration, organized in (Athens) Greece in order to train 60 “social digital mentors” on the topics of the guide. These social digital mentors has been in charge of The Mentors Office that has been answering questions and doubts to other long term unemployed people in Europe.

Finally a Learning Community and Learning Barcamps has been done in any of the partner countries to disseminate about the guide and the The Mentors Office among schools and companies.

During the Final Conference in Porto, all these results have been showed and explained to the attendees.

The conference was closed by a very interesting speech by Paulo Salgado from Universidade do Minho (Braga) about the responsible use of  Social Media.

More information on the project can be found in: http://www.social-digital-mentors.eu

 

Reasons to spend your Erasmus experience in Valencia: Las Fallas

Valencia offers an ideal setting for your Erasmus adventure, boasting the status of Spain’s third-largest city with a pleasant climate and less congestion compared to other major cities like Madrid or Barcelona. The city’s year-round sunny weather and easy access to beaches make it an enticing destination. If you’re considering Valencia for your Erasmus experience, there’s one compelling reason that stands out: Las Fallas.

Las Fallas is a traditional festival in Valencia, renowned worldwide and recognized as a ‘Festival of International Tourist Interest’ and part of the ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.’ This celebration is a must-see experience, showcasing elaborate monuments and vibrant festivities.

Monuments of Fallas

Originally stemming from ancient carpenters’ traditions, Las Fallas has evolved into grand structures made of cork and wood frames, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. These monuments feature central figures surrounded by ‘ninots,’ incorporating elements of humor and satire reflecting current events.

What to Expect During Las Fallas

Las Fallas is not just a local event but a global spectacle, with unique aspects often overlooked. The festival’s name originates from medieval torches known as ‘fallas,’ used in the city’s watchtowers. While Valencia is the festival’s epicenter, other places like Argentina also celebrate their version of Las Fallas. The festival’s duration has expanded since 1932, spanning from March 15th to 19th, with activities starting as early as February.

Mascletàs and Other Highlights

The festival’s signature mascletàs offer a daily display of rhythmic firecrackers at Town Hall Square, reaching intensities exceeding 120 decibels. The plantà marks the official placement of monuments for judging, while the ofrenda sees ‘falleras’ presenting flowers to the ‘Virgen de los Desamparados,’ creating a stunning tapestry. The grand finale, cremà, involves burning the monuments to ashes, symbolizing the end of the festival.

Experience Las Fallas

For those embarking on an Erasmus journey in Valencia during Las Fallas, essential experiences include exploring the monuments, indulging in local delicacies like fritters or churros with chocolate, witnessing breathtaking fireworks displays, and strolling through illuminated streets in Ruzafa.

Key Activities During Las Fallas

  • Crida: Last Sunday of February
  • Mascletàs: March 1st to March 19th
  • Plantà: March 16th
  • Ofrenda: March 17th and 18th
  • Nit del foc: March 18th
  • Cremà: March 19th

 

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences of Las Fallas, making your Erasmus adventure in Valencia truly memorable.