Active Hearts Through Green Minds

German-Norwegian Youth Exchange 2025

After last year's successful exchange, we are now kickstarting the second round of 'Active Hearts Through Green Minds'! HI Norway and DJH (HI Germany) invite young people to a new, inspiring exchange experience through Erasmus+. This year we continue our journey with a focus on community, sustainability and active experiences — a unique opportunity to learn, experience and grow together across borders.

📅 Dates and locations:

• Part 1 in Germany: 18 July — 25 July 2025 (Hamburg and Plön)
• Part 2 in Norway: August 5 — August 12, 2025 (Oslo and Skogsro)

🔗 Digital preparation meeting with the German participants in May 2025.

Practical information

💰 Deductibles for Norwegian participants: 500 kr
(The amount is symbolic and ensures commitment to the program)

🛏️ All accommodation, activities and meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as well as transfers from Oslo collection point are covered.

⏳ Registration deadline: April 15, 2025
📍 Registration is done digitally via the link: https://linkform.typeform.com/to/cIm8qklH

Program Description

📍 Part 1 — Oslo (August 5—6 & August 9—12, 2025)

The August 5 the German group arrives in Oslo after a long journey and meets the Norwegian participants at HI Oslo Haraldsheim. Here everyone gets to know each other through socializing and a joint dinner with barbecue at Haraldsheim's beautiful outdoor area overlooking the city.

Activities in Oslo (August 9—12):

• Bike tour through Oslo — Experience the city's green initiatives from Grünerløkka to Aker Brygge/Tjuvholmen.
• Visit to the Botanical Garden and the Nobel Peace Center — Explore nature and peacemaking.
• Group games and team building — Exercises to strengthen cooperation and cohesion.

The Oslo program provides a unique combination of urban experiences and sustainable urban development.

🌿 Part 2 — Forest Tranquility (6—9 August 2025)

The August 6 The group will travel on to HI Skogsro, a nature-friendly hostel surrounded by forests and lakes, perfect for immersing yourself in sustainable activities and community.

Activities in Skogsro:

• Barbecues and socializing
• Possibility of swimming
• Workshops focusing on sustainable solutions (specific activities to be clarified with Skogsro)
• Nature Experiences and Reflection Exercises

The programme in Skogsro provides participants with a deeper understanding of sustainability and community, creating a fine balance between urban life in Oslo and nature experiences.

Requirements for participation

✔ Age: 16—26 years
✔ English at a minimum B1 level
✔ Interest in sustainability, physical activity and cultural exchange
✔ Participation in both parts of the program (Germany and Norway)
✔ Willingness to participate in joint workshops and activities

Sustainability and responsibility

🌱 We travel green where this is an option, prioritizing environmentally friendly modes of transport.
🚌 We use public transport wherever possible.
🥦 Vegetarian and vegan options are available throughout the program.
🚯 We avoid unnecessary plastic and emphasize a sustainable lifestyle.

Registration and contact

📅 Registration deadline: April 15, 2025
📍 Registration is done digitally via the link: https://linkform.typeform.com/to/cIm8qklH
📧 Question? Contact us at info@hihostels.no / antonio@hihostels.no

Join us on an exciting journey that combines sustainability, community and cultural exchange We look forward to having you with us! 🌍✨