SOCIAL DANCE FOR SOCIAL IMPACT: How Dance Connected Youth from Four Countries.

Bachata is much more than a dance — it’s a language, a tool, and a doorway to connection. In a world where many young people struggle with social anxiety, lack of confidence, or difficulty expressing themselves, bachata offers a gentle and joyful solution. You don’t need to be a dancer. You don’t need to be extroverted. You just need to be willing to try, move, and connect.


Read more about Why Bachata Helps You Be More Social and check out our video and photo gallery on this link https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OcXy4fprqUYimeVgiCMUEj6k9SMzAU54?usp=sharing

From June 15th to 23rd, 2025, Zagreb hosted a unique Erasmus+ youth exchange project titled Social Dance for Social Impact, which brought together 60 + young participants aged 15 to 19 from Croatia, Slovakia, Serbia, and North Macedonia. Through the medium of social dance – specifically bachata – the project used movement, intercultural dialogue, and non-formal learning to promote inclusion, self-confidence, and social skills.

The project was funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ programme and organized by the Croatian youth NGO Urbana mladež, in partnership with:

  • Gymnázium Košice (Slovakia),

  • Dormitory for Secondary School Students, Niš (Serbia),

  • Student Dormitory “Zdravko Cvetkovski”, Skopje (North Macedonia).

Project Objectives
The main aim was to empower young people through dance workshops, intercultural activities, and non-formal learning experiences. Key focus areas included:

  • Building confidence and personal growth

  • Fostering inclusion and breaking stereotypes

  • Strengthening communication and teamwork skills

  • Promoting intercultural understanding and friendships

Project Activities Included:

  • Bachata dance workshops for beginners

  • Educational sessions on inclusion, stereotypes, and teamwork

  • Team-building games and reflection circles

  • Intercultural evenings and national presentations

  • A final public performance and open dance party

Tangible Results of the Project:

  • A motivational PDF guide “Why You Should Start Dancing Bachata” in 5 languages

  • A collection of videos and photo materials created by the participants

  • Youthpass certificates awarded to all 69 participants and group leaders

Intangible Results:

  • Development of the 8 Key Youthpass Competences

  • Increased self-confidence and expression among youth

  • New international friendships and cooperation

  • Breaking down of prejudices and improved intercultural dialogue

  • Inspiration to join future Erasmus+ projects and local dance communities

What Participants Say
“I didn’t know how to dance, but now I feel confident – and not just on the dance floor!”
“I met friends from three countries and I’m no longer afraid to speak English.”
“This was the best international experience I’ve ever had – dance created real magic.”

Why Dance?
Bachata was chosen as a dance style that is easy to learn, emotionally expressive, and inclusive. It helps participants connect beyond words and encourages physical activity, communication, and cultural exchange. Dance is a universal language – and this project proved it.

Visit our gallery, read the guide, and be part of the next Erasmus+ dance adventure!

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