EKO is happy to announce that one more amazing training course has been completed successfully. The project “Glowing Rectangles: Finding Digital Wellbeing & Real Connections” was organised by the Polish organisation “Autokreacja”, and took place in Puck, Poland from 17 to 24 April 2026. 

Aims & Objectives of the project

The project aimed to strengthen the capacity of youth workers and young people to develop a more conscious, balanced, and responsible relationship with digital technology, fostering well-being, inclusion, and active participation. It focused on raising awareness of how app algorithms are designed to trigger dopamine-driven engagement and how excessive smartphone use can impact both mental and physical health, including issues such as sensory overload, “text neck,” and reduced body awareness.

A key objective of the project was to build participants’ digital agency by empowering them to take control over their technology use. Rather than engaging with devices out of habit or compulsion, participants were encouraged to make intentional and mindful choices about when and how they interact with digital tools. At the same time, the project promoted the importance of digital detox and mindfulness by introducing offline practices that support presence, stress management, and authentic human connection.

Through this process, participants were also encouraged to shift from being passive consumers of digital content to becoming conscious and responsible creators. By exploring the use of visual media such as photography, video, and social platforms, they developed the ability to communicate meaningful messages, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to more inclusive and positive narratives within their communities.

Workshops & Activities of the project 

The training course was based on non-formal education methods and followed an experiential, learning-by-doing approach. Participants took part in interactive workshops and reflective activities designed to help them better understand their personal relationship with technology and the broader impact of digital environments on behaviour and well-being.

Throughout the training, participants explored how digital platforms and algorithms influence attention, habits, and emotional responses. Through guided discussions and practical exercises, they reflected on their own smartphone use and its effects on their physical posture, mental focus, and social interactions. These activities were complemented by sessions focused on building awareness and developing healthier digital habits.

A significant part of the programme was dedicated to experiencing digital detox and mindfulness practices. Participants engaged in offline activities, including outdoor exercises such as “Forest Meditations,” which encouraged them to reconnect with nature, reduce stress, and strengthen peer relationships without the interference of screens. These moments fostered presence, self-awareness, and deeper interpersonal connections.

In parallel, participants were introduced to creative workshops where they developed skills in visual storytelling, including photography and video creation. These sessions aimed to transform their role from passive consumers into active creators, enabling them to use digital tools intentionally and responsibly. By producing their own content, participants learned how to communicate messages that promote inclusion, empathy, and cross-cultural understanding.

The training also encouraged collaboration, peer learning, and the exchange of ideas, supporting participants in adapting the methods and tools to their own local contexts. Overall, the seminar contributed to participants’ personal and professional development, strengthening their critical thinking, creativity, and ability to foster healthier and more conscious digital practices in youth work and everyday life.

It is an amazing opportunity and a great experience for EKO’s team.

Eleni and Evangelia were the amazing Greek team members whom we want to thank for all their contributions and collaboration throughout the project!

As EKO, we are very grateful for that amazing opportunity given to the Greek team. We thank our Polish partner, Autokreacja, and the members of the hosting organisation for all their hard work and for creating such an impactful project!

Thank you – Ευχαριστούμε – Dziękuję!