(You)th Can Participate Antalya

16.-22. September 2024

The 16-22 September 2024 Antalya Program, featuring 22 participants from Germany and Turkey, provided a week of diverse activities centered on cultural exchange, youth engagement, politics, and social responsibility. Through collaborative activities, Turkish and German participants had the chance to deepen their understanding of one another and explore different cultural perspectives.

Accomodation Location: Acar Apart

Fabrikalar, Hasan Tahsin Cd No:52, 07090 Kepez/Antalya

Day 1: Monday – 16. September 2024

The project participants were welcomed at the apartment in Antalya. The German participants were shown their rooms, and the check-in process was completed. During dinner, both Turkish and German participants had the opportunity to come together and socialize. This gathering facilitated introductions, cultural exchange, and a general overview of the project. Initial strong interactions were established among the participants, and general information about the project program was shared.

Day 2: Tuesday – 17. September 2024

Energizing Activities / Name Games / Review of the First Stage (Ministry of Youth and Sports, Antalya Sports Hall)

At the Antalya Sports Hall, energizing games and name-learning activities were organized for all participants. These activities allowed participants to further connect with each other and helped build a sense of teamwork. Following this, a session was held to review the first stage of the project, where participants shared their initial impressions and experiences. Additionally, the group visited various youth facilities within the Antalya Sports Hall, including art rooms, sports rooms, e-sports areas, and met with representatives from the project unit.

Expectations, Fears, Contributions

In this session, participants had the opportunity to share their expectations from the project, express their concerns, and discuss how they could contribute to the process. This was a key moment for the participants to reflect on how they could individually engage in the project and voice their feelings, helping to ensure that everyone felt included and understood.

City Hunt in Antalya

In the afternoon, a „city hunt“ event was held in the city center. Participants explored Antalya’s cultural and historical landmarks while completing various tasks based on clues provided. This activity fostered teamwork and strengthened communication among the participants as they collaborated to complete the challenges.

Picnic Dinner at Konyaaltı Beach Park

After the city hunt, participants gathered at Konyaaltı Beach Park for a picnic-style dinner. The meal included traditional Turkish dishes such as börek, kısır, çiğ köfte, and ayran. In this relaxed seaside setting, participants enjoyed their meal while unwinding from the day’s activities, spending time in nature and sharing a pleasant evening together.

Day 3: Wednesday – 18. September 2024

Visit to AK Parti (Justice and Development Party)

Participants visited the AK Parti Antalya Muratpaşa District Headquarters, where they attended a presentation about the party’s mission, its youth initiatives, and its political influence in Antalya. The broader impact of AK Parti on Turkish politics was also discussed. During a question-and-answer session, participants engaged interactively, learning more about the party’s youth policies and having their inquiries addressed.

Workshop: Comparison of Political Parties in Germany and Turkey

In the afternoon, participants took part in a workshop that compared political parties from Turkey (AK Parti and CHP) and Germany (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen and SDP). Working in groups, participants created posters that highlighted the parties‘ missions, youth policies, environmental views, and approaches to social justice. These posters were then presented to the group, sparking discussions and exchanges of ideas among participants.

Dinner and Beach Time

Dinner was once again held by the beach, allowing participants to enjoy the scenic view as they relaxed. Afterward, some participants took a swim in the sea, rounding off the day with a refreshing and enjoyable evening.

Day 4: Thursday – 19. September 2024

Sports Activities at Özgecan Arslan Youth Center

Participants visited the Özgecan Arslan Youth Center, where they engaged in various sports activities, including volleyball, basketball, and traditional Turkish archery. The archery session was particularly special as participants were introduced to the history and cultural significance of Turkish archery. They learned about its historical development and importance in Turkish society while also getting hands-on experience with the sport. These activities aimed to develop participants‘ athletic skills and provide insights into Turkey’s cultural heritage.

Debate on Youth Participation: „Yes-No“ Debate

In the afternoon, a structured debate session was held to explore the topic of youth participation in politics. Participants were divided into two groups to argue for or against specific statements. The questions for debate were:

1. „Does youth participation in politics directly affect the success of political parties?“

In this debate, participants discussed the impact of youth involvement on political parties‘ success in elections. Some argued that the energy and innovative ideas of young people significantly influence political outcomes, while others contended that youth participation is not always a decisive factor in a party’s success.

2. „Is social media the most effective tool to increase youth participation in politics?“

In the second debate, participants explored whether social media is the most effective means of encouraging youth political engagement. One group highlighted the vast reach and active use of social media among young people, arguing it as the most powerful tool for engagement. The opposing group emphasized the continued importance of traditional methods and face-to-face interactions, which they believed could be equally, if not more, effective.

The debate fostered a lively exchange of ideas, encouraging participants to think critically about the role of youth in politics and the tools available to enhance their participation.

Day 5 (20 September 2024 – Friday)

Visit to Dokuma Park

The day began with a visit to Dokuma Park, offering participants a rich experience of Antalya’s cultural and historical heritage. The visit included the following highlights:

Car Museum: Participants explored a collection of classic cars that showcased Turkey’s automotive history. A guided tour provided insights into the development of the automotive industry in Turkey and worldwide. The participants learned about the history and technological advancements of the vehicles, offering them a nostalgic perspective on transportation.

Open-Air Miniature Museum: This section of the park featured miniature versions of significant historical and cultural landmarks from various regions of Turkey. Participants examined these symbolic structures and gained a deeper understanding of Turkey’s architectural diversity and cultural richness. The experience was both educational and eye-opening for Turkish and German participants alike.

Anatolian Martyrs Museum: The museum commemorated the martyrs who played a crucial role in Turkey’s history. Exhibits and memorials helped participants understand the sacrifices made for Turkey’s independence and freedom. This visit provided a deeper perspective on the country’s recent history and the values it holds.

Visit to Konyaaltı Municipality and Talk with the Youngest City Council Member

In the afternoon, participants visited Konyaaltı Municipality, where they met with a 21-year-old city council member, one of Turkey’s youngest political representatives. The meeting took place in the official council chamber, offering participants a unique opportunity to experience a real political environment.

Discussion: The young council member shared his journey into politics, discussing the challenges and opportunities of entering politics at a young age. He emphasized the importance of youth participation in politics and offered insights on how young people can become more actively involved in political processes.

The Role of Youth in Local Governance: The council member discussed how young people can contribute to local governance and decision-making processes. The discussion inspired participants to consider how they, too, could influence their communities and local governments.

Turkish Culture Night

In the evening, participants gathered for a Turkish Culture Night. This event provided a rich introduction to Turkish traditions and cultural expressions.

Dance Activities: The night featured performances of traditional Turkish folk dances, allowing participants to both observe and participate. The interactive dance sessions were an enjoyable way for everyone to immerse themselves in Turkish culture.

Cultural Games: Fun games related to Turkish culture were organized, giving participants the chance to engage with Turkey’s cultural heritage in a light-hearted and enjoyable manner.

Food and Drink: The night was complemented by a selection of traditional Turkish food and beverages, allowing participants to taste various local delicacies. The culinary experience was a highlight of the evening, fostering further cultural exchange between the participants.

Day 6 (21 September 2024 – Saturday)

Free Day – Exploring Antaly

Saturday was designated as a free day, allowing participants to explore the beauty of Antalya at their leisure. During this time, Turkish and German participants ventured together to discover the city’s historical and tourist landmarks, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Antalya.They visited popular spots such as Antalya’s famous beaches, the historic Kaleiçi district, Hadrian’s Gate, the Yivli Minaret, and the city’s stunning natural landscapes. This free day not only enhanced cultural exchange but also allowed participants to bond more closely and form lasting friendships. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of Antalya provided the perfect backdrop for these social and exploratory experiences, leaving participants with cherished memories. At the end of the day, the project evaluation took place, and feedback was gathered from all participants. The day concluded with heartfelt goodbyes, marking the end of the program.

Day 7: Sunday – 22. September 2024

After completing their check-out procedures, the participants were warmly bid farewell as they prepared to leave Antalya. The program’s successful conclusion left everyone with a sense of accomplishment and nostalgia. Participants headed back to their home countries, enriched not only by new friendships but also by meaningful experiences in Turkish politics, youth participation, and cultural exchange. The connections made and memories shared will surely last a lifetime.