The days are shorter, the nights longer. The cold breeze of winter is catching Tbilisi and its inhabitants. But DRONI’s members and volunteers are keeping the train on the tracks, and in the best way possible because the month of November was filled with workshops and initiatives !
Read more about everything that happened in November in this month’s edition of DRONI Wrapped :
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Local Events
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Mindfulness session”, 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th November
In November a guiding series of mindfulness sessions was conducted to introduce key techniques of Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for Life (MBCT-L), an 8-week mindfulness training. During introductory sessions, participants began to pay attention to simple awareness of breathing, physical sensations, and emotions without judgment. It has been a journey with openness and curiosity to open a new space for compassionate living, to bring clarity in everyday life, and to quiet the busy mind. Participants’ enthusiasm and their keenness to understand their minds create a safe space for learning and sharing. This month’s mindfulness sessions reminded us that the present moment is always available and breathing with awareness changes everything. Thank you to everyone who participated in the sessions and brought great energy, openness, and curiosity. May you carry this softness of heart into your life. Namaste.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Digital ethic : Online privacy”, 5th November
We discussed ways to protect ourselves online against trackers, cookies, spam emails, etc. Unfortunately, we learned that protecting our privacy can sometimes be difficult or expensive, especially when we have to use websites or apps full of trackers that can’t be deleted. The goal of the workshop was to raise awareness of this issue and encourage people to pay more attention to it, and that’s the most important goal and result. In the future there will probably be another workshop about open source software, license, creative commons, DRM and copyright and other topics related to the field of Digital Ethic.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Empowerment through argument”, 10th November
Participants interactively learned about debate culture and how to show solidarity in discussions with discriminating narratives. Through role plays it was possible to shift perspectives and prepare for real life discussions as well as overcoming the fear of speaking up.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Digital resilience puzzle”, 12th November
On November 13, we held the following workshop: “Digital Resilience Puzzle”. We shared with young participants the knowledge and experience we gained during youth exchange in Romania, Baia Mare. At first, we presented the project’s main topics through a presentation. Then we conducted various activities, discussions and interactive games , which helped participants to better understand the influence of social media and artificial intelligence on our daily lives and relationships. We also discussed ChatGPT as our friend and an integral part of our everyday lives.
Participants had the opportunity to express their opinions and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of artificial intelligence. Besides, we talked about cases when sharing personal information on social media can be dangerous, discussed the results and the ways to solve this kind of issue.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Mental health and peer support”, 13th November
The workshop focused on understanding performance anxiety and building peer support to create a safe and brave space where people could freely share their ideas and experiences without judgment. We had enough time to discuss the topic and share our everyday experiences. Overall, the workshop had a good pace, and all the participants who attended were engaged and actively contributed to the discussion.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Non-violent communication”, 14th November
The workshop was attended by 12 participants and ran smoothly with good time management, finishing exactly on schedule. Participants enjoyed the activities, worked well in their groups, used their time effectively, and created thoughtful scenarios during the practical tasks. Overall engagement was positive, though some exercises were misunderstood, showing the need for clearer explanations and more examples, as well as extra time for questions. Participants were also a bit shy during the activity that required joining other groups’ performances, so adding confidence-building elements could help in the future.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “What kind of leader are you ?”, 19th November
We held a workshop about six types of leaders: democratic, transactional, transformational, laissez-faire, autocratic, and servant leaders. After discussing each style, everyone answered true-and-false questions about leadership and took part in an “agree or disagree” activity to share different opinions. We ended the session with a survival game in groups. Instead of choosing one leader, most teams decided to work together and make decisions as a group, often by voting. It was interesting to see teamwork and leadership styles appear naturally during the game. Overall, the workshop was active, fun, and helped everyone understand leadership in a practical way.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Empower through argument”, 21th November
In that workshop, participants interactively learned about debate culture and how to show solidarity in discussions with discriminating narratives. Through role plays it was possible to shift perspectives and prepare for real life discussions as well as overcoming the fear of speaking up. The session focused on helping individuals build confidence, understanding your emotions, express themselves clearly and practice assertiveness in everyday situations.
Participants were engaged throughout the workshop, actively taking part in discussions and exercises. Many reported feeling more aware of their communication patterns and more confident in using their voice effectively. The atmosphere was positive, supportive and encouraging, which contributed to meaningful exchanges and personal insights.
Overall, the workshop was productive, well-received, and created a positive learning experience. Attendees left feeling motivated, more self-assured and encouraged to continue developing their communication skills.”
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Gender in youth work”, 25th November
The workshop focused on raising awareness of gender inequality and providing practical tools, especially for youth workers, to promote gender equality. Through interactive activities, group discussions, and reflection, participants explored where gender inequality appears in everyday life and developed realistic strategies to address it. The session concluded with personal reflection, encouraging participants to apply inclusive practices in youth work and daily environments.
→ Get Ready Workshop: “Kartuli filmi”, 26th November
On Wednesday evening, we showed the film Gadasvla (The Crossing) by Levan Anukin. It was amusing to transform the office into a screening room. People came, they were interested, and they highly appreciated the film. For many of the European volunteers, it was their first Georgian film. There will probably be more screenings in the future, not only of Georgian films.
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Team volunteers’ adventures
Our team ESC volunteers have been continuing their adventure full of learning, cultural exchange and teamwork! Over the last two months, they’ve taken part in a series of inspiring workshops and activities that brought people together and created lasting memories.
→ Visit in Ponichala
The volunteers had an incredible day visiting Ponichala, where they met with local youth and organized an interactive intercultural event. Each volunteer group created their own Cultural Corner, representing Georgia, Germany, Armenia and Turkey, where children could explore traditions, languages and fun facts from each country. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and curiosity as the participants moved from corner to corner collecting new experiences.
Later, everyone joined an exciting Kahoot quiz, tested their knowledge about cultures and Europe, and participated in engaging environmental protection and peace-building activities. Energizers throughout the day kept the mood high and a reflection circle at the end allowed everyone to share what they learned and felt.
→ Hike Day
Another highlight was the group’s Hike Day to the iconic Chronicles of Georgia monument overlooking Tbilisi. Volunteers explored this breathtaking site, learned about Georgian history and culture represented in the monument’s grand sculptures, and enjoyed panoramic views of the city and the Tbilisi Sea. It was a day of connection with nature, teamwork and appreciation for local heritage.
→ Language Workshop
Our volunteers also turned into teachers and students during an inspiring Language Workshop! Together they explored the basics of Georgian, German, Armenian, and Turkish languages, from alphabets and pronunciation to simple dialogues and grammar rules. It was fascinating to discover similarities and differences between the languages, and to see everyone trying to say “hello” and “thank you” in four new tongues.
→ Cultural Workshop : Khinkali Edition
To top it all off, the volunteers took part in a Khinkali Workshop – a true taste of Georgian culture! Under the guidance of a local chef, they learned the story behind this beloved national dish and the traditional way to prepare it. Rolling the dough, filling it just right and folding each khinkali with care turned out to be both fun and challenging! The best moment, of course, came at the end when everyone got to taste their delicious handmade creations together.
→ Exploring beyond Tbilisi
The cultural program began with a visit to Mtskheta, one of Georgia’s oldest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Participants explored the historical and spiritual importance of the city, including the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and gained insights into Georgia’s cultural heritage and religious traditions.
The group also visited Didgori Battle Memorial, a powerful symbol of unity and victory in Georgian history. Here, participants reflected on themes of peace, solidarity and national identity through on-site discussions in a natural and inspiring environment.
→ Ponichala Youth Center Workshop
After previously working with older youth in Ponichala, this time volunteers prepared a special workshop for younger children, centered on environmental awareness and cultural exchange. The kids practiced English, discovered fun insights about Armenia, Turkey and Germany, and took part in a lively quiz.
→ Cultural Evening
To strengthen bonds within the group, volunteers organized cozy cultural evenings where they presented their home countries through music, dances, traditional sweets, personal stories and important symbols, celebrating friendship and diversity across borders.
→ Visual Storytelling Workshop
Finally, they channeled their creativity into a Visual Storytelling workshop, designing personalized postcards from photographs they captured in Tbilisi, this way their unique memories turned into art.
These activities once again showed the power of volunteering, how it can bring people together, connecting cultures, promoting learning and building friendships across borders by encouraging learning and creating lifelong memories across cultures.
Click here to find out more part 1
Click here to find out more part 2
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International Projects
→ “Digital Resilience Puzzle”, held in Comarruga, Romania
In Baia Mare, Romania, a project titled “Digital Resilience Puzzle” was implemented with the support of GRUNI’s partner, the Youth Organization DRONI. The Erasmus+ exchange project brought together 20 young people from Georgia and Romania, including students from GRUNI:
- Psychology (Bachelor’s, 2nd year): Mariam Tavshavadze, Niniko Samushia, Lizi Iakobadze, Ani Rurua
- Journalism and Mass Communication (Bachelor’s, 4th year): Giorgi Morchiladze
During the project, participants engaged in discussions on challenges related to the digital world, including:
- ChatGPT: My virtual friend or a potential threat?
- The impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on mental health
- Perceptions of reality versus misinformation on social media
A highlight of the project was mini-performances, which the participants themselves scripted and performed to illustrate the influence of the digital world on human relationships.
Additionally, as part of a “Treasure Hunt” activity, participants explored Baia Mare’s landmarks with international volunteers from Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and Georgia, learning about the city’s history and culture while capturing memorable photos.
The participants also collaborated with volunteers to create digital-themed puzzles, which, according to the organizers, will be introduced to local school students in Baia Mare. Notably, volunteers conducted interviews with the young participants to reflect on their experience in the exchange program.
GRUNI students shared their experiences with peers, presenting the key topics of the seminars. During a cultural evening, they also introduced their Georgian traditions.
The project was implemented with funding from the European Union. GRUNI sincerely thanks Youth Organization DRONI for their cooperation and support.
→ “Exploring Gender Identity Through Art”, in Comarruga, Spain
DRONI members had the opportunity to participate in a 5-day training course “Exploring Gender Identity Through Art”, which was held in Spain, specifically in Comarruga. The project brought together participants from 13 countries, who worked on individual and collective art projects. Their works included pottery, paintings, photo projects, theatrical performances and reflected their experiences and messages regarding gender norms and stereotypes. The project turned out to be interactive and interesting, workshops and trainings were held that helped the participants to better understand gender issues, and then the participants made presentations of their works.
→ “The ExPerience: Level Up Your Mentoring Game”, held in Ogulin, Croatia
The project was hosted by the organization LAG VALLS COLAPIS. The main aim of the training was to strengthen mentoring, communication, and managerial skills, representing an important step in both the professional and personal development of the participants.
Over the course of five days, they gained diverse experiences – exploring cultural diversity, getting to know the host country and participants from various European nations, tasting traditional dishes, and most importantly, developing essential skills for an effective mentor–mentee relationship. The non-formal education format created a safe, engaging, and highly comfortable learning environment.
As the members of DRONI highlighted, one of the most valuable tools they will continue to use in practice is the “Six Hat Technique.” This method helped them design their own projects, consider critical details, and identify potential risks from multiple perspectives.
→ “The Impact Waves Are Getting Bigger!”, held in Bant, Netherlands
The main goal of the training, hosted by the organization of the project was the “ROCK SOLID FOUNDATION”, was for the participants of the course, as organizers, to work on the content of inclusive exchange programs, in which both people with disabilities and those of typical development will participate next year.
During the eight days, the young people gained knowledge and experience in various areas – cultural diversity, tasting national dishes and, most importantly, experience working on youth exchange programs by taking personal responsibility, using brainstorming techniques and group work.
Along with the theoretical part of the training, the Georgian participants presented their country and important cultural features at an intercultural evening, talked about the activities of the sending organization, and also prepared a presentation about the types of Paralympic sports and common practices in Georgia.
The biggest result of the project was the creation of an inclusive environment where young people could feel safe and learn more about each other, especially in terms of disabilities, which clearly contributes to increasing acceptance of differences.
→ ”Trailblazers”, held in Hagen, Germany
From November 17–25, DRONI members took part in a training course as the second phase of the Trailblazers project, which promotes outdoor education as an inclusive and innovative tool in youth work. During the training, participants worked intensively on developing outdoor education tools that incorporated the experience gained throughout both phases of the project. They also had the opportunity to plan and facilitate sessions, receive feedback from participants and facilitators, and gain valuable learning experience. The project also included a hike in Hagen, where participants walked approximately 12 kilometers to reach an old castle. Overall, the experience proved to be diverse, exciting, and highly engaging for everyone.
→ ”Integrating gender equality into your work”, held in Istanbul, Turkey
During November 8–16, members of DRONI participated in an Erasmus+ training course in Istanbul. The main goal of the project was to raise young people’s awareness on gender equality issues. The program combined both formal and non-formal education methods, allowing participants to understand complex social topics in a practical and interactive way. Here is what they say:
We started the course with sessions focused on the essential differences between sex and gender. We explored both biological factors and socially constructed roles, as well as their impact on people’s lives. We also learned in detail what opportunities Erasmus+ provides for young people and youth workers, and why it is important for their personal development.
A significant part of the course was dedicated to the discussion of hate speech and its consequences. Through workshops and real-life examples, we examined stereotypes, discrimination, and how harmful language becomes normalized. We also shared the realities of our own countries in terms of gender equality, comparing challenges, cultural attitudes, and achievements. One of the most important sessions was the meeting with a Turkish activist, who told us about the current situation in Turkey regarding gender equality. Later, we discussed gender-based violence and how the media reinforces harmful stereotypes. This topic was an emotional and eye-opening experience.
At the end of the course, we jointly developed a recommendation document focused on integrating gender equality into youth work. We also learned how to plan Erasmus+ projects, find partners, and write project proposals. Throughout the project, we strengthened critical and creative thinking, cultural awareness, communication, and teamwork skills. We deepened our social and civic competences by better understanding gender policies, and we developed creativity and initiative while working on project ideas and the recommendation document.
→ “VOLU-MENT – Mental Health through Volunteering”, held in Budapest, Hungary
Team members of Youth Association DRONI joined the international partnership meeting for a KA2 project “VOLU-MENT – Mental Health through Volunteering” in Budapest, where organisations from Hungary, Georgia, Turkey and Portugal gathered for the first time to launch more than three years of cooperation dedicated to strengthening the mental well-being of young volunteers.
Day 1
The meeting opened with introductions and the analysis of previously collected best practices. Even in the early discussions, partners recognized many shared approaches to supporting the mental health and well-being of young volunteers.
Day 2
Partners collaboratively finalized the research questionnaire aimed at mapping young volunteers’ motivations and mental health needs. The consortium also made strong progress in shaping the project’s visual identity. The day ended with a cultural programme, offering partners a taste of Hungarian youth spaces and traditions.
Day 3
The meeting concluded with study visits to two Budapest-based organisations, where partners gained practical insights into everyday methods of supporting volunteer well-being. These inspiring experiences generated valuable ideas for the project’s upcoming materials and activities.
The VOLU-MENT partnership leaves Budapest with strengthened cooperation, motivation, and a clear shared vision for the next phases of the project.
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Thanks for reading DRONI Wrapped – November 2025 ! We hope you could gain some insights into the ongoing events at DRONI Youth Association and would love to see you soon at our upcoming activities. Follow our website and social media to always stay on top of what’s next ! From now on, DRONI Wrapped will be posted here on our website monthly again.
If you have any feedback, questions or proposals for new workshops/events, we’ll be happy to hear from you ! See you next month !