From July 29 to August 4, Prague became the stage for the second international training course of the Erasmus+ project Our Story – Storytelling for LGBTQ+ Community Wellbeing. Twenty-five participants from five European countries gathered to explore how storytelling, art and activism can strengthen queer communities and make their voices visible. The event was co-organised by Fundació Catalunya Voluntària (Spain), Emantes (Greece), Osservatorio di Genere (Italy), Prague Pride (Czech Republic) and Saplinq (Slovakia).
The week began with icebreakers, group dynamics and a collective agreement that ensured a safe and respectful atmosphere. As one participant shared: “I felt safe and respected, even beyond language differences. It was easy to communicate and be myself.” Workshops introduced a variety of tools for expression: from silent line-ups to word association games, from collective movement exercises to reflective metaphors. These activities built trust and prepared the ground for deeper artistic work.
The training explored the power of fanzines as a queer tradition of resistance. Guided by facilitators from the partner organisations, participants created their own zines and collages-personal yet collective works combining drawings, poetry, slogans and visual storytelling. Inspiration came from different sources: Konstantin’s reading of “Drag Queen Saved Christmas”, Emantes’ presentation of their zine project with LGBTQ+ refugees, and Marian’s playful introduction to collage techniques. The outcomes were as diverse as the group itself: manifestos, explorations of body image, and messages of belonging-like the zine reminding everyone: “Whoever you are, you are never alone and never will be.”
A highlight of the week was joining the Prague Pride March. Walking together as the Our Story group, participants celebrated visibility and reflected critically on what Pride means today. Questions such as “Which groups are most supported? Which need more?” and “How can we use our voices for greater impact?” guided the post-march discussion. As one participant said: “The individuality of our society distances us from activities that build community. It’s very important to be united!”
The week concluded with the Fanzine and Collage Gala, where participants proudly presented their works. Among them was Yulia’s zine inspired by souvlaki, the food she relied on during her first days as a refugee. She explained: “I am proud of me, and I have to be someone who is proud of me.” The final evaluation brought heartfelt words: “This was not just a project I participated in – this was my life. I didn’t come here to improve my CV; I came to learn, grow, and meet people who helped me realize that I’m not alone.”
Beyond the certificates and creative outputs, Our Story in Prague left participants with strengthened bonds, new tools for activism, and a commitment to continue building inclusive spaces across Europe. “There is still so much work to do in this world,” one participant reminded everyone at the closing circle. The week in Prague was just another step in that journey.
For more details about the activities and reflections, you can access the full project results and report.
