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Arlindo Areias, Portugal

My name is Arlindo Areias and I’m a Portuguese History and Geography teacher at the Dr. Francisco Sanches School, in the city of Braga (North of Portugal). My students are 10/11 years old. As well as being a teacher, I'm also a member of the school board.

I’m happy to collaborate with you in this Erasmus+ projet “Eco-Friendly Children”.

I think it will be a fantastic experience to work together on environmental sustainability.

I was an Eco-Schools coordinator for 10 years.

Among other things, I like hiking in nature, travelling, walking by the sea, dancing (ballroom dancing), watching a good football match. I can't do without my camera to record these moments on my walks. Another activity that gives me pleasure and relaxes me is working in the garden, although lately it's been quite difficult to do it.

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Hello!

My name is Fernanda and I'm an English Teacher in the city of Braga (Portugal) at Dr. Francisco Sanches School Cluster. My students are 8/9 years old.

I’m really happy to collaborate with you in this ERASMUS project! I think this is going to be an amazing project!

I have 22 years’ experience in teaching students from the ages of 7 to 70 years old. Although I worked for 15 years as an Elementary and Secondary English Teacher, I am currently a Primary English Teacher.

I enjoy travelling, hiking, reading, watching TV, watching tennis and football, going to the beach and going to the cinema. 😁

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My name is Maria José Ferreira.

I’m a dedicated and experienced primary school teacher who works with students from the 1st to the 4th grade.

With 37 years of teaching experience, I tried to bring passion, patience, and creativity into my classroom every day.

I work at the Dr. Francisco Sanches Group, Quinta da Veiga school in Braga.

In addition to my classroom work, I found the experience of participating in Erasmus projects.

These international collaborations have allowed me to exchange knowledge, explore new educational approaches, and broaden both my own horizons.

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Hello!

My name is Paulo Santos, and I’m a Physical Education teacher in the Dr. Francisco Sanches School, in

the city of Braga, (North of Portugal).

My students are 10/11 years old.

I have 32 years’ experience in teaching and I tried to bring passion, patience and creativity into my classroom every day.

I’m really happy to collaborate with you in this ERASMUS+ project “Eco-friendly children”. I think this is going to be amazing project!

I think it will be a fantastic experience to work together on environmental sustainability.

These international collaborations have allowed me to exchange knowledge, explore new educational approaches, and broaden both my own horizonts

I am also a swimming coach for young

athletes (10/12 years old), which gives me

experience in developing swimming at

school, with the school sports club.

I like traveling, swimming, hiking, watching

TV (especially sports), going to the cinema,

the theater, visiting museums and going to

the beach.

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Hello!

My name is Elisabete Vasconcelos. I am 62 years old and I have been an elementary school teacher for 38 years. I work as a teacher and coordinator at S. Victor primary school in Braga, Portugal, which belongs to the Francisco Sanches group.

I had the opportunity to participate in the Erasmus+ project "Eco-Friendly Children" was an incredibly enriching experience for me, both personally and professionally. This international initiative brought together students and teachers from different countries with a common goal: to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices among children.

Throughout the project, I had the opportunity to engage in various activities focused on environmental education, such as workshops, cultural exchanges, and eco-friendly school projects. I collaborated with participants from diverse cultural backgrounds, which allowed me to broaden my horizons, improve my English communication skills, and gain a deeper understanding of global environmental challenges.

What made this experience truly special was the chance to learn and share new ideas in a supportive and inspiring environment. It was rewarding to see how small actions can make a big difference when it comes to protecting our planet. The project also strengthened my sense of responsibility as a global citizen and motivated me to continue promoting sustainability in my daily life and in my community.

In conclusion, being part of the "Eco-Friendly Children" project was not only educational but also life-changing. I am grateful for the memories, the friendships, and the valuable lessons I gained during this unforgettable journey.

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My name is Muhterem Han. I have been working at 100.Yıl Akkent Primary School for 16 years. I have left 32 years behind in my profession. I have worked with passion, loving every day and moment. The project in question opened up very beautiful horizons for me professionally. I saw different cultures and had the opportunity to meet wonderful teachers. I observed the children in the schools we went to. I understood that children are the same in every country and they are all very extraordinary. I love them very much. Thank you for everything. I hope these interactions continue and I will be a part of them.

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I am Fatma KAÇAR, a classroom teacher. I am working in the teaching profession for the 26th year. I have been working at 100. Yıl Akkent Primary School. I am 52 years old. This is the first project which in I have participated. 
I teach primary school classes. My students are between the ages of 6-10. I am a teacher who enjoys doing projects at school. I work to raise respectful children who are sensitive to nature. This year, my students and I staged a play called “THERE IS NO OTHER WORLD”. We planted saplings. After our trip to Spain, we organized an exhibition of the Alhambra Palace and Picasso. Last year, we organized a recycling exhibition called “FROM WASTE TO TOYS”. These studies have turned my students into sensitive, environmentalist individuals who know and protect both themselves and their world.
The Erasmus project contributed to my personal development. It was a pleasure to meet colleagues who shared the same views as me. The experience abroad was enjoyable. It was nice to share the differences I saw abroad with my students and fellow teachers.

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Hello!

My name is Mehmet Refik Ekinci. I am 41 years old and have been a primary school class teacher for 18 years. I work at 100.Yil Akkent Primary School in Mersin, Türkiye.

I had the opportunity to work with our partners from Spain, Portugal and Germany within the scope of the Erasmus+ project "Eco Frinedly Children". This project was an extremely valuable and inspiring experience for both my professional career and my personal development.

We organized joint events with teachers and students from different countries on environmental awareness, love of nature and sustainable life. Thanks to this project, our students got to know cultural diversity and experienced learning in collaboration.

I believe that such international projects increase the quality of education and establish strong bonds between teachers.

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Erman gün Turkey Mersin 100. Yıl Akkent ilkokulu 

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Erman gün Turkey Mersin 100. Yıl Akkent ilkokulu 

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I am Erman Gün, 38 years old and have been working as a primary school teacher for 11 years. I am currently working as a teacher at 100. Yıl Akkent Primary School in Mersin.

I recently had the opportunity to participate in the "Eco Friendly Children" project carried out within the scope of Erasmus+. This international initiative was a multifaceted and inspiring effort aimed at spreading environmental awareness and sustainable living habits among children. I came together with teachers and students from different countries and participated in many activities based on environmental education; workshops, cultural interactions and environmentally friendly school projects were the prominent topics in this context.

This process made significant contributions not only to my professional development but also to my personal development. Working within cultural diversity allowed me to recognize different perspectives and developed a deeper awareness of environmental issues. I also had the opportunity to improve my English communication skills. The supportive and sharing atmosphere in the project provided a suitable ground for the emergence and implementation of new ideas.

Thanks to the "Eco-Friendly Children" project, I had the chance to experience how small but effective steps can have big results for our world. This experience led me to rethink my environmental responsibilities both as an individual and as an educator and to increase my efforts to raise awareness in my environment about sustainability.

In conclusion, this project was not only educational for me; it was also a transformative experience. I am very grateful for the experiences I gained, the friendships I made and the knowledge I acquired.

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My name is Yıldırım DEMİR. I am 51 years old and have been working in education for 31 years, 28 of which I have served as a school principal. I work with students aged 6 to 11, including those in preschool. Throughout my career, I have always been committed to bringing new ideas and practices into the learning environment.

So far, I have taken part in five mobilities under two Erasmus+ projects, both focusing on migrant integration and sustainability. These experiences have helped me grow professionally and personally, allowing me to discover new cultures and educational approaches.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve been involved in is called "Eco-Friendly Children." This project aims to raise environmental awareness in children, especially about recycling, and supports their cognitive, emotional, and social development through hands-on and creative activities. It also promotes time management, motor skills, cultural understanding, and builds self-confidence by encouraging students to explore their own potential.

In addition to my administrative duties, I take great interest in areas like entrepreneurship, music, and pedagogy. I actively participate in seminars that offer new contributions to education and inspire me to improve my practices. Erasmus+ has played a key role in enriching my educational vision. It continues to be an essential program for me, as it allows me to discover new perspectives and bring innovative methods into my school.

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Hi!

I’m Pelin SAĞLAM. I’m an English language teacher at 100. Akkent Primary School and have been a part of education for 27 years in Turkey, Mersin. I work with students which are 8-11 years old. As a teacher with a deep interest in both education and environmental responsibility, participating in eco-friendly Erasmus+ projects has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. The Erasmus+ program has not only broadened my understanding of environmental education—it has also transformed the way I teach. Today, I make a conscious effort to embed sustainability in every subject. I encourage students to question, explore, and think critically about the world around them. I enjoy creative and peaceful activities like ceramics, wood carving, and pencil drawing. Working with my hands helps me relax and express myself. I also love learning new languages and spending time in nature — hiking, exploring, and especially gardening. Being close to nature makes me feel calm and alive. Another passion of mine is classical music. It inspires me and brings a sense of peace to my daily life. I really enjoy listening to TEDx talks. They are short, inspiring, and full of new ideas. I love how each speaker shares personal stories and unique perspectives. It helps me see the world differently and think more deeply about different topics. Whether it's about education, science, or life experiences, TEDx talks always leave me motivated and curious to learn more. I have authored an English language course book specifically tailored for 3rd grade primary school students. The course book is designed in alignment with age-appropriate pedagogical principles, aiming to support early language acquisition through engaging visuals, structured vocabulary development, and interactive exercises. My goal was to create a resource that not only facilitates foundational English skills but also fosters a positive and motivating classroom environment. The content reflects both national curriculum standards and contemporary language teaching approaches suitable for young learners. I have taken part in Erasmus+ projects many times before, focusing on topics such as “uniqueness, refugees, and recycling”. Erasmus+ is an indispensable program for me, as it helps me discover and adopt unique approaches and educational methods from different cultures. This, allows me to gain new experiences by applying more diverse techniques in my own country.

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Hello. I am Sevgi Olaç. I have been working as a school counselor for 15 years and I also have a master's degree in Marriage and Family Counseling. I have 8 years of Erasmus+ project experience. I have coordinated many projects. These were inclusive, digital and environmental projects. I combined my professional knowledge with Erasmus+ projects and had the opportunity to gain many different information, perspectives and experiences. I’m a person who loves to learn, produce and develop. The inclusive aspect of Erasmus+ projects and the cultural mosaic it creates, its multicultural structure always excites me to produce new projects. In this project, we aimed to provide our students with environmentally friendly skills and we did many joint studies. As a result of all our studies, we always say the same sentence : “Thank goodness you exist, Erasmus plus.”

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Hello!

My name is Ozan Dinçer. I am 43 years old and have been working as a teacher for 19 years. For the past 7 years, I have also served in administrative roles within primary schools, working closely with young learners. I’m working at 100. Yıl Akkent Primary School. Education has always been a central part of my life—both professionally and personally, as I am also the father of two children.

I took part in my first Erasmus+ experience through the “Eco Friendly Children” project. So far, I have participated in three mobilities under two different projects. This experience has opened my eyes to new perspectives, especially in terms of sustainable education and intercultural learning. I believe this project is not only valuable for personal and professional growth but also essential in shaping a more environmentally conscious generation.

The "Eco-Friendly Children" project is designed to cultivate environmental consciousness in young learners by educating them on the importance of recycling. It supports the development of cognitive skills such as attention and concentration, while also enhancing time management and fine motor abilities. Additionally, the project fosters intercultural understanding and offers constructive, engaging alternatives to excessive screen time. By transforming discarded materials into creative and functional items, children not only boost their self-esteem but also learn to value sustainability. I believe this initiative plays a crucial role in instilling a sense of responsibility and ecological awareness from an early age. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, exploring new cultures, and staying active through swimming, football, and morning runs. I also have a strong interest in pedagogy and frequently attend seminars that offer new contributions to the field of education. One of my hobbies is playing the guitar, and I see music as one of the most essential elements that nourishes the soul.

Erasmus+ has been a transformative journey for me. I believe that for developing countries like Turkey, such programs are extremely important. They offer access to new educational methods, cultural exchange, and broader worldviews. For me, Erasmus+ is not just a project—it's a platform for growth, connection, and lasting change.

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🌿Dr. Susam Dündar Işık – A Journey Rooted in Life, Reaching the Human Heart 🌿 

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Dr. Susam Dündar Işık, ARDA Beratung & Bildung, Berlin/ Germany

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Dr. Susam Dündar Işık, ARDA Beratung & Bildung, Berlin/ Germany

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I am an educator, project developer, mother, thinker, and a devoted companion on the path toward a better life. In every step I take, I strive to embody integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility.

My name is Dr. Susam Dündar Işık.

Throughout my life, I have taken on various academic, social, and international roles.
But the most meaningful title I hold is simply this: a human being seeking to understand life in all its depth.
Perhaps the most transformative of all my identities is that of being a mother of two.
Motherhood has not only brought profound responsibility but also taught me the true essence of patience, empathy, and care.

I approach every task as if one day my children will carry it forward and make it even better —
because I believe:
The quality of one’s work reflects the integrity of one’s soul.

🎓 Learning, Leadership & Connection

My educational journey has taken me through Turkey, Germany, and the United Kingdom, while my professional path has led me to contribute in Germany, France, Belgium, and Turkey. I have worked at the intersection of politics, civil society, academia, and human experience — always listening, always learning.

My academic foundation was shaped by a Ph.D. from Humboldt University in Berlin.
I served as a Junior Professor at Yüzüncü Yıl University and as a policy advisor at the European Parliament.
These experiences taught me that while knowledge is precious,
wisdom lives in the ability to connect — to truly touch hearts.

One of the most meaningful milestones in my career was initiating a formal academic collaboration between Humboldt University and a university in Eastern Türkiye —
a dream that became a bridge of knowledge and hope between regions once considered worlds apart.

🏃‍♀️ Endurance, Discipline & Self-Mastery

Earlier in life, I was a national long-distance runner.
I became the Turkish Champion in the 3,000m, 8,000m, and 10,000m events,
and won three silver medals at the Mavi Haliç International Half Marathon in Istanbul.
These experiences instilled in me the values of perseverance, discipline, and resilience —
qualities that continue to shape every project and relationship I pursue.

🌍 Projects That Shape People and Possibilities

Since founding ARDA Beratung & Bildung GmbH in 2010,
I have led and coordinated over 100 international Erasmus+ projects across more than 30 European countries.

Each of these projects has been far more than a professional assignment. They have been part of a lifelong journey toward:

seeking deeper meaning

embracing social responsibility

realizing human potential

offering hope to marginalized communities

building trust-based, authentic human connections

and above all — learning to love without condition

Our projects have always been people-centered and value-driven. Among them:

Eco-Friendly Children – fostering environmental awareness through creativity and play, reconnecting children with nature

Digital Empowerment – promoting digital literacy and conscious online participation

Youth Inclusion – amplifying the voices and agency of youth from diverse backgrounds

Breathwork for Wellbeing – supporting emotional resilience and growth through somatic tools

We believe that education is not merely the transmission of knowledge —
it is the cultivation of awareness, emotional intelligence, ecological sensitivity, and digital resilience.

🏅 Milestones That Honored My Journey

“Most Successful Woman of the Year” – Turkish Community in Berlin (2007)

“Most Successful Woman of the Year” – DITIB (2007)

Germany Tolerance Award – MANEO (2009)

Berliner Tulip Award – (2010)

These recognitions serve as affirmations that I am on the right path.
Yet, my greatest rewards are intangible:
a child's smile, a spark of rekindled hope, the quiet courage of transformation.

Witnessing young people — once told “you’ll never succeed,” often stigmatized or excluded —
grow into empowered engineers, economists, artists, social workers, or simply fulfilled human beings...
That is why I continue this work with all my heart.

💬 My Belief

I believe that:
Education, breath, nature, digital transformation, intercultural understanding, and social justice must move forward together.
Only together can we remain human — and become stronger, together.

Every project is an effort — yes —
but beyond that, each is a bridge from heart to heart.

I continue to work with:
the heart of a mother,
the discipline of a scholar,
and the curiosity of a lifelong learner.

Because I know:
Children are not just our future — they are the conscience of today.

🤝 With deepest gratitude,
I thank all my project partners, team members, the youth I’ve worked with,
and everyone who has opened their hearts to a shared purpose.

And to the Erasmus+ family —
thank you for building bridges beyond borders,
and for reminding the world that even in times of division, we can still choose unity.

In an age where racism and exclusion are once again rising across Europe,
I truly believe it is this new Erasmus Generation that will carry the torch of hope, equality, and humanity forward.

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I am Şerife Yıldız. I have completed my 24th year in the teaching profession. I work as a primary class teacher at 100 Yıl Akkent Primary School. I have gained very good experiences in this first Erasmus project that I have been involved in. In line with the information we have gained in the project, we are working to ensure that our students become people who protect nature and take care of the world we live in. It was very enjoyable to meet different cultures, meet new friends and gain new professional experiences during the project process.

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Hello, my name is Büşra Yigit. I’ve been working as an English language teacher for 6 years at different schools and cities in Turkey. I also completed my Master’s in teaching Turkish and have worked as a Turkish language teacher online.

I’m very much of a sports and language person. I’ve tried many sports like skiing, ice skating, rowing, canoeing, archery, tennis. I also speak 4 languages. They are helping me build stronger connections with other cultures.

It’s been a great opportunity and pleasure to be part of the Erasmus+ Project “Eco-Friendly Children”. We, as a team, had the chance to observe the great educational and ecological methods applied in Braga as well as seeing this magical city. We had a chance to work with our colleagues from other European countries and cooperate for a better future for all of us.

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 Arda Işık – A Compassionate Young Voice Bridging Science, Sustainability, and Social Change

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Arda Işık, ARDA Beratung & Bildung, Berlin/ Germany

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Arda Işık, ARDA Beratung & Bildung, Berlin/ Germany

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My name is Arda Işık, I am 21 years old and currently a third-year medical student at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, one of Europe’s leading medical faculties. I also work as a project assistant at ARDA Beratung & Bildung GmbH, contributing to educational initiatives focused on environment, digitalization, sustainability, STEAM, and youth empowerment.

Since the age of 16, I have been actively involved in European Union Erasmus+ projects. To date, I have participated in over 15 international projects, working alongside peers from more than 20 countries. Throughout this journey, I have gained in-depth experience in intercultural collaboration, youth mobility, and non-formal education. Despite the demanding nature of medical school, I continue to contribute passionately to these projects — because I truly believe in the power of people coming together to share knowledge and build a fairer, more sustainable future.

Thanks to Erasmus+, I have genuinely internalized the European motto: “United in Diversity.” Meeting inspiring individuals from different backgrounds who share the mission of empowering younger generations has been a profound source of motivation for me. These experiences have strengthened my vision — to not only become a doctor but also an educator and a catalyst for social transformation.

I believe that health and education are inseparable. I want to heal individuals while also delivering knowledge, empathy, and the power of change to entire communities.

In the future, I aim to build bridges between medicine, the environment, education, sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation — empowering young minds across borders and generations.

Young people are the heartbeat of tomorrow. I believe in them, I stand with them, and I walk alongside them.

My heartfelt thanks go to all my dear friends and project partners —
And of course, to Erasmus+ for everything.
A special thank you to all the young people who have shown me that curiosity, courage, and compassion can truly change the world.

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My name is Isabel Barbosa, I am a Visual and Technological Education teacher at Dr. Francisco Sanches, in the city of Braga, Portugal. My students are 10/11 years old. I also have qualifications for preschool and primary school. I have been a teacher for 40 years.

I am pleased to collaborate in this Erasmus+ project "Environmentally Friendly Children". I think it will be a fantastic experience to work together on environmental sustainability. I spent 10 years teaching in Portuguese schools abroad, 8 in East Timor and 2 in Mozambique. I really enjoy practicing Yoga, going to the cinema, watching science fiction films and staying away from conflicts and confusion.

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My name is Miguel Sánchez Maldonado, and I come from the beautiful city of Granada, in the south of Spain.

I am deeply passionate about my profession—teaching. I work with secondary and high school students, focusing on the fields of Mathematics and Information Technology.

What I love most about education is the opportunity to inspire curiosity and critical thinking in my students. I am constantly exploring and applying innovative teaching methodologies that encourage active learning and meaningful engagement in the classroom.

Being part of Erasmus+ projects allows me to grow as an educator, exchange ideas with colleagues across Europe, and bring fresh perspectives and experiences back to my students.

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Hello!

My name is Sara Huerta Gómez and I’m a Spanish Language and Literature teacher at Colegio Juan XXIII Cartuja, in the city of Granada (South of Spain). I’m 29 years old and I currently teach students in 1st and 2nd year of ESO (Compulsory Secondary Education), so they are around 13 and 14 years old.

I’m really happy to be part of this Erasmus+ project and to collaborate with you all. I believe it will be a great opportunity to exchange ideas and learn together while working on important values such as sustainability and interculturality.

I have several years of experience in teaching, and I’m passionate about education, creativity, and innovation in the classroom. In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing, going for walks, travelling, discovering new places, and spending time with my loved ones.

Looking forward to this exciting journey together!

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My name is Julia, I am 27 years old, and I work as a Language and Literature teacher at Juan XXIII Cartuja School, located in Granada, Spain. I currently teach students in the second year of secondary education, who are around 14 years old.

I truly love my job. I am passionate about literature and language, and I believe that nurturing curiosity and conveying strong values are essential pillars of my daily work at school. For me, teaching is not only about delivering content, but also about inspiring students and guiding them to become thoughtful, respectful, and engaged individuals.

Participating in the Erasmus+ programme for teachers offers a unique opportunity to connect with educators from different countries, share best practices, and learn from diverse educational systems and cultures. The programme not only enhances professional development through training and collaboration, but also fosters a broader, more inclusive perspective on teaching. It allows us to bring fresh ideas into the classroom, improve our language skills, and promote a European identity based on cooperation, respect, and mutual understanding. Being part of Erasmus+ has reinforced my passion for education and reminded me of the powerful impact that international exchange can have on both teachers and students.