The Europe on Track conference “Smart Cities: Can you hear the ECO?” was the kick-off event for Europe on Track #5 and took place in the beautiful city of Thessaloniki from the 15th until the 18th of March 2018. Organised by Europe on Track in collaboration with AEGEE-Thessaloniki, this international conference touched upon many burning issues related to environmental sustainability, which is considered by AEGEE to be an essential part of civic education.

The opening ceremony
On the 15th of March, 120 people from all over the world – among them, participants, ambassadors, organisers and members of the project team – gathered in the city hall of Thessaloniki for the opening ceremony of the event and had a first taste of the topic of Smart Cities and Sustainability. Together with them, we joined the sessions and workshops that took place over the next three days where we gained a lot of insights about smart cities.

The workshops
On Friday the 16th we returned to the city hall, as an intensive day of learning and brainstorming was ahead of us. Starting off with an introduction to Smart Cities and three different workshops on how to apply the features of smart cities in real life, participants had the chance to dive into the concept of smart living and to further elaborate on their views regarding the topic. The next series of workshops enlightened us as to what smart economy, connectivity, digitization, and smart governance are and how they can change the way we act on a commercial, digital and administrative level.

The panel discussions
The panel discussion on urban planning in the context of climate change and growing urbanisation that followed brought local specialists such as university professors and members of the city council in contact with the participants. During this fruitful conversation we tried to study and familiarise ourselves with problems regarding the dysfunctional transportation system of Thessaloniki in particular, by comparing it to that of other cities such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam. It turned out that the attempt to make Thessaloniki itself a smart city is a big challenge but the young members of the conference seemed to be up for it. Jumping into the next panel discussion, we talked with Artemis Psaltoglou, researcher at URENIO on the concept of urban intelligence and Margarita Angelidou, a senior research consultant in European research projects, about the social implications of technological fixes, an issue that concerns the vast majority of young adults nowadays. During this conversation we asked ourselves: “Is it possible that technology promotes excuses? Do we consume more than normal with the alibi that we recycle?” The catchbox microphones were on fire while the passionate participants shared their thoughts on the matter of technology and ethics in today’s society.

The hackathon
With the help of Mr. Pernet, co-founder of Youth for Public Transport (Y4PT), a hackathon took place in the International Exhibition and Congress Centre of Thessaloniki. The participants worked hard in groups of 5 people for 8 straight hours on original projects aimed to help the population of Thessaloniki tackle problems such as transportation malfunctions, poor recycling methods and a lack of green space.
With limited time and the eyes on the prize, the productivity levels in the room were high. The attendees brainstormed, elaborated on ideas and joined forces to create together. With the help of Mr. Akylas, Consultant of Urban Resilience and Mr. Goniadis, an expert in sustainable development, the teams found answers to their questions and managed to finish their projects on time for the closing ceremony, where a winner would be announced.

The closing ceremony
The final day of the event was full of anticipation and emotional tension. As the teams were presenting their unique ideas it was clear that the jury would face a challenge in order to choose a winner between all those equally innovative projects. At last, the winning team was announced, whose project, “happy soil”, aimed to manage the organic waste in the city of Thessaloniki. The conference was wrapped up with the speeches of the project team and the organisers, who were thrilled to see their month-long efforts and dreams being realised. In retrospect, the conference was a characteristic example of youth in action in favour of humanity, because, as Mr. Akylas pointed out in his speech, in order to see change in the world, “we should think globally and act locally”.

Written by Maria Tiaka, AEGEE-Thessaloniki

NWM -Thessaloniki was held from the 30^th March to the 2^nd April in Thessaloniki. It was one of the first couple of NWMs that opened the spring season this year. It was attended by 30 participants, Spyros Papadatos from NetCom, Réka Salamon from CD and experienced trainers, such as Damien Moon Latacz from MedCom and Lucia Gavulova from Summer University.

The title of this article, which was inspired by Spyros Papadatos’s motto “Make the impossible, possible”, sets the beat and describes in the best way this NWM. It was a united collaboration between the local organisers, that surpassed every obstacle, and the European contribution of NetCom, CD and the other participating commitees. The result was a well organised NWM in both the logistic and the content-related aspects.

The participants came from various parts of the Network. Even though the element of the antennae coming from the distributional area where the NWM was organised was not prominent, this enriched the opinions and practices that could be shared during the whole process. The sessions were held in the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and some of them in the local youth council settlement. Specifically, the participants had the chance to learn about the structure of AEGEE, prepare and present a SWOT analysis for their antenna, work on FR, HR recruiting and team management. Apart from this, there were sessions about Agora preparation and “Democracy in AEGEE”, a discussion about the future of AEGEE which was presented by Réka. The highlight though, according to many participants, was the Best for My Local session in which each antenna had the chance to share the knowledge and their best practice for recruitment. It was very helpful and enlightining, especially if we consider the fact that our Network is more and more threatened with shrinking. Moreover, the Open Space Technology, which hosted different discussions, from the Brexit to specifying the Point System, was the one that everyone enjoyed the most, due to the fact that they could be involved and participate actively. Laslty, there were very interesting sessions about the youth carrers within EU, which were presented to us by a representative of Europe Direct.

Despite the hard working during the sessions and the commitment with which everyone handled with it, the social life was enjoyed by everyone.  Thessaloniki is a city well known for its nightlife, tasty food temptations and hospitable people.

The participants had the chance to meet all of these through city tours, partying like superheroes in an alternative style pub, travelling back to disco times and tasting the local liquors in traditional tavernas, even when the NWM was finished. We couldn’t exclude the legendary European Night, which was mostly enjoyed by Spyros, our NetCom, Marios, the local representative, and Alperen from AEGEE-Istanbul, who won an Interrail ticket in the Best of my Local competition.

All these wouldn’t have become a reality without the amazing team of organisers from AEGEE-Thessaloniki and the main organiser, Stella Krokou. Within a hard economical situation in Greece, they managed to keep up to everyone’s expectations and hold an inspiring NWM. The have succeded in fundraising, covering all logistics, gaining the collaboration of the university (whoever comes from an antenna with a difficult collaboration with the university can understand how important this is). The quality of their effort was eminent from the fact that everybody had a wonderful time both during the NWM and after it. Personally, as a participant myself on this NWM, I would like to express my gratitude towards them and wish this NWM to reflect on them the same inspiration and create an equal motivation to them as they did for us all!

Written by Vasiliki Andrioti, AEGEE-Ioannina

One event. 13 days. Six cities. 23 participants and almost 25 organisers. “Our Big Fat Greek Winter University” was the New Year Event organised by the greek speaking antennae of AEGEE-Athina, AEGEE-Peiraias, AEGEE-Patra, AEGEE-Ioannina, AEGEE-Thessaloniki and AEGEE-Kastoria, between the 28th of December 2016 and the 9th of January 2017.

This NYE was one of its kind! An ambitious plan and a profoundly challenging event with one and only aim: to emphasise the diverse beauty that Greece has to offer to its visitors during the winter. Usually, when people think about the country, the first thing that pops automatically in mind, is the S triplet: sun, sand and sea! The journey followed a different path this time. Participants got to travel and see both the urban everyday life of the big cities and harbours, as well as the picturesque, suburban areas with the vivid student life.

As for me, this was a self-discovering and an amazing experience. When I joined AEGEE a year ago, trying to find my footsteps aside from school and my comfort zone, I would never imagine that I would be mainly responsible for such a thing. This is why, when my antenna proposed to me to be in charge of AEGEE-Ioannina part in this event, I felt it like a challenge.

No matter the difficulties that the organisers had to face considering it was a collaboration between six antennae, we managed to make the dream of many people, even before us, come true. We definitely surpassed the Greek stereotypes that want many people when working together, arguing with each other with no result. The biggest proof is what one of our participants, Leyla Gasanova from AEGEE-Moskva, said:“In general I want to say big thanks for this event! We could see a reeeally good job and a lot of preparation”.

The NYE started in the Greek capital Athens, of course. During the time in Athens, the participants had the opportunity to see our cultural inheritance. They visited the National Archaeological Museum, the state-of-the-art Akropolis Museum and Akropolis Rock. This was a life dream for many AEGEEans, who added a check to their to-do lists. They also paid a visit to the Ancient Agora and Pnika, the place where the ancient Athenians were gathering to discuss and vote. As Athens is a modern city, which combines perfectly the old with the new style, we could not miss an opportunity to walk in the alleys of the centre with full of bazaars, as well as shops with a modern and alternative essence. Lastly, the organisers of AEGEE-Athina took a good care of the social nightlife and partied along with the participants in various clubs. Everybody agreed on the fact that Athens had the best and craziest parties of the event.

The participants left with a great first impression to move to Patras, the second biggest harbour in Greece. The most enjoyable moment was during the city tour and the city rally when they visited, among others, the orthodox church of Saint Andrew and closed the day in the lighthouse near the marina, where we saw the sunset by the sea! It was a serene moment during this trip, perfect to meditate, as one of our participants did. The NYE party in Patras was a typically Greek celebrating meal, late in the evening. After we welcomed 2017, we ate the New Year’s Pie, a custom in the country. The pie was cut into pieces and served to guests. In it, there is a coin and whoever has it in his piece, is the lucky one for the year that has just arrived. It is connected to the orthodox Santa Claus, who is called Saint Vassilios, and he was the first to offer such a pie to the poor. Foteini, president of AEGEE-Patra, was the winner. After the meal, it was time for the party in the local bars!

Following destination… Ioannina! It is the small town in the north-west of Greece, as known mostly for lake Pamvotis and the mountainous sceneries. The time here is like stuck in the past, in the era when the Ottomans ruled. This impression was increased by the byzantine castle, the remaining mosques and the legends still alive in every corner. Travelling through places of the Medieval Age astounded the participants. We also visited the island in the lake, the one with its permanent inhabitants. We had a dance workshop there with local dances from Epirus and the Ionian Islands.

Of course, we did not miss the chance to dance the syrtaki as well. It would not be a Big Fat Greek Winter University without it, anyway! The highlight of the day: other visitors were passing by and staring at us. However, who really cared at that moment? Another workshop given by Netcom Spyros Papadatos was both interesting and fun. It was about “An interactive way to introduce AEGEE so that both the new and the old members could contribute and enjoy”. Ioannina ended its part with the European Night, which was organised in accordance with the guidelines of the “Drink-wise Project”. As the main organiser on behalf of my antenna, I had the “Eurotrip” through all the tables of different nations and opened the night with Spyros. And yes! I am able to say we survived!

Next in the row was Thessaloniki, “The Nymph of the North”, as locals proudly call the city. Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and an eternal competitor with Athens. The participants had an amazing time in the city tour. One of the highlights was the byzantine castle, which was built in the 4th century. It offers a breathtaking and panoramic view from the highest point of the city to the beach and to the White Tower. During the two nights that they spent there, they got a taste of the legendary nightlife in Greek style tavernas with local foods, drinks and music. The pub crawl was a social activity which they also enjoyed much. In Thessaloniki, the organisers from other locals gathered together, created a lovely feeling to be all together for the final days of the NYE.

The event was meant to finish in Kastoria. The phenomenal snowstorm, though, that stroke Greece this winter, had another opinion on this. Under extremely low temperatures, AEGEEans took part in Ragoutsaria, a carnival that has its origins to the bacchanalian ceremonies that were exercised in the area. In Kastoria, the organisers also introduced them a real Greek night. The best part was definitely the moment that the participants tried to sing the mainstream Greek music. Unfortunately, the weather was a constant enemy and Murphy’s law “If something can go wrong, it will”, worked exceptionally well. With the whole country entering in a freezer, problems in the accommodation came up and the event had to finish ingloriously. This made us all disappointed, as we were all looking forward to the three-days party with the wine and the unstoppable dancing with the rhythm of Balkan music all around the alleys. Yet, every bad situation comes out a good result…or at least a funny incident.

We made it to the news! Two brave AEGEEans, during their visits to the frozen lake, walked on a very thin sheet of ice. Next day they became viral as the Kastorians who walked on the lake! Of course, we knew otherwise!!! To sum up, this NYE has been a pleasure and an adventure for everybody. As all NYEs, it was the perfect start to a year with full of travelling, meeting new friends and getting to know another country. More specifically, it was a chance to visit many Greek cities from the north to the south, learn about the culture and the particular cultural characteristics. Even though it might have been a little tiring swapping between six destinations, we were very happy to be able to show a different and more representative aspect of Greece. This would have been impossible without the friendly atmosphere we managed to create among the group of organisers. It was a surprise to me to get closer with our fellow antennae in such a way. We also owe this all to the most challenging and patient group of experienced AEGEE members that helped us to make it happen. And as once said… why not? Let’s turn this into a tradition!!!

Written by Vasiliki Andrioti, AEGEE-Ioannina

Spring is right in front of us, and Spring Network Meetings follow closely. The Network is once again presented with ten amazing opportunities to grow stronger together, create fruitful alliances and share best practices. Here you can find the first five: AEGEE-Debrecen, AEGEE-Thessaloniki, AEGEE-Bilbao, AEGEE-Heidelberg and AEGEE-Nijmegen. For the following five, click here.

NWM Debrecen: The phoenix rises again

When it comes to AEGEE, sometimes it is like a double-edged sword. You have the benefit of experiencing and getting into the democratic process, assume responsibilities and make yourself heard at the European level. At the same time, there is a threat of people coming and going all the time, AEGEE represents just a few years of their lives for most of the members. This pilgrimage can sometimes affect the balance of an antenna or even the whole Network; some other times it could also create better leaders and the feeling of being part of this legacy could motivate people even more. AEGEE-Debrecen is no less than this, a few motivated members that will “rise again” and make their voices heard. We will tackle together all these issues and find real solutions for our locals and the Network. How can you get more inspired, if not in a place where inspired people are working and living? Come to discover the capital and the second biggest city in Hungary, its cuisine and its biggest treasure: the great AEGEEans living there!

Facebook event here.

NWM Thessaloniki: Find your thess-aurus
Are you an AEGEEan and you would like to know more about our organisation? Do you wish to gain knowledge and develop your skills in combination with meeting with more than 30 people from all over Europe? Do you want to join a journey to explore AEGEE and yourself? Then the NWM Thessaloniki: Find your thess-aurus is the right event for you! Join us in the beautiful Greek city of Thessaloniki and explore your potential and the AEGEE spirit (except the mattresses and the sleeping bags, we will have real beds!). A team of trainers will help you find your thess-aurus, so do not wait anymore! See you in Thessaloniki!

Facebook event here.

NWM Bilbao: The North is Worth a Meeting

For the second time in six years, AEGEE-Bilbao is proud to invite you all to the NWM: The North is Worth a Meeting. On the second weekend of April, 52 young AEGEEans will gather in Berriz for one of the greatest AEGEE events: a Network Meeting! During three days, invaded by the AEGEE spirit, all the beloved participants will have a great time in a traditional cosy village, being surrounded by lovely nature and learning about the Basque language and the culture. We are going to focus on the needs of the locals: what they want to learn and improve, what they want to share. Also, we can count on some special help to make the wishes of our participants come true.
If you want to discover what is going on in Bilbao, do not miss this opportunity!

Facebook event here.

NWM Heidelberg: Breaking the ice with Friedrich

Breaking the ice with Friedrich is your best opportunity to discover the most romantic city in Germany. Spend the whole weekend with 50 other AEGEEans sharing ideas and opinions and enjoying the best AEGEEan atmosphere. We even have a whole afternoon full of games and opportunities to discover the area! We are not saying that it will be the best NWM of the season but…. well, yes, we can say that! You will not regret joining us! A really participative NWM where you can have a say about the sessions beforehand! Do not let the others tell you about it, be part of NWM Heidelberg!

Facebook event here.

NWM Nijmegen: Bridges across Europe

Nijmegen is the oldest city in the Netherlands, yet it is full of young people, including many AEGEEans. The best part of this Network Meeting will be the variation. The programme contains thematic sessions including a conference about equal rights, as well as organisational sessions provided by at least five different people. You will receive a bike for the whole duration of the event, allowing you to get plenty of fresh air during the day, while you crawl from pub to pub in the night!

Facebook event here.

This is part one of a two-parts article. More NWMs are coming soon.

Written by the Network Commission of AEGEE-Europe

In addition to the previous articles about the New Year’s Events, we would like to present you with some additional opportunities which are going to be organised by really experienced Antennae like AEGEE-Belgrade and the Greek Antennae. In this article, the journalist Matteo Lai will explain you why you can choose one of these events to spend the last hours of 2016, with the contributions of Vasiliki Andrioti and Aleksandra Icić.

Our Big Fat Greek Winter University

This NYE event is organised by Greek speaking Antennae (Athens, Peiraias, Patra, Ioannina, Thessaloniki and Kastoria). The general themes of this NYE are Greek history and culture, therefore they are also the focus of the social programme. Starting the journey from Athens, the participants will get to witness how the capital can perfectly combine its historical past with the present. Participants will visit the Akropolis and Parthenon, and stroll around the Plaka with its alleys and little shops. Moving to a nearby neighbourhood , members of AEGEE will see Peiraias, the biggest harbour of the country, with its own nautical and merchant tradition.

On New Year’s Eve, the participants will find themselves in Patra, the third biggest city of Greece, where the organisers are planning to have a party to welcome 2017. In Ioannina, the fourth destination, participants will visit the first of the two lake towns in their journey. A day trip will be set up to an island inside the lake, where everyone will get to know the local life. Thessaloniki, the so-called capital of the North, will reveal its stunning beauty from the top of its castles, which are the highest point in the entire city. And do not forget the must-do walk to the White Tower.

Last but not least, in Kastoria participants will attend “Ragoutsaria”, a local custom to welcome the new year. “Prepare yourselves for a different kind of carnival with much dance and alcohol!” adds Vasiliki Andrioti, from AEGEE-Ioannina. In addition, the social programme will involve traditional dances from different regions all around Greece, language and culture workshops, parties and many more.

A Winter University on this scale has never happened in the past. Participants will have the chance to travel through Greece, and the organisers from Athens, Peiraias, Patra, Ioannina, Thessaloniki and Kastoria await them to show them the original Greek spirit, six of the main cities of Greece and examples of Greek history and culture. It will be like a journey from the past to the present, meeting people from various regions and experiencing all the Greek customs, local life and hospitality.

So, if you have ever wanted to visit Athens and Akropolis, dance Syrtaki, eat Souvlaki and drink ouzo, get ready for a really “kefi” [fun, ed.] event! Vasiliki invites all members to apply on the intranet page here, and by filling in the Google form here. The deadline is the 20th of November. Thirty participants will be accepted.

Frozen in Belgrade: Oh deer, another year!

The topic of this NYE in Serbia is Tradition and Culture. Through workshops provided by AEGEE-Beograd, the participants will get the chance to explore Serbian traditions related to Serbian food and its preparation, and to the Serbian famous drink “Rakija” [a fruit brandy, ed.] and how it is made. During the city tours, the participants will see the most famous parts of Belgrade such as the Kalemegdan fortress, Saint Sava’s Temple, Skadarlija (the bohemian quarter), Knez Mihailova street and much more. Other activities include the Nikola Tesla museum, ice skating and trying to make it out of an Escape room on time.

Since Belgrade is famous for its night life, the organisers planned a pub crawl, an unforgettable European Night and, of course, something special for New Year’s Eve! “We are not going to tell you everything, you will just have to come and see for yourself”, adds Aleksandra Icić, the main organiser of the event.

“Balkan spirit is something you should experience – from our hospitality, warm and nice people who know how to enjoy life to our rich culture, monuments at every step and a buzzing nightlife” tells Aleksandra.

Twenty-five participants will be accepted for the event. The deadline is set for the 22th of November. Apply on the Intranet here and fill in the Google form here (both are required).

Written by Matteo Lai, AEGEE-Cagliari.

I first met Arsenis at my first AEGEE event, Agora Budapest 2012. Even though he was really busy as President of AEGEE-Thessaloniki and main organizer of the upcoming NWM Thessaloniki, he helped me to find an accomodation place for the ITC (IT Committee) meeting last year.

He didn’t just revive AEGEE-Thessaloniki, but also helped with finding members for the new board, one of them being my sister. That’s how I got to know Arsenis better. A couple of weeks after the NWM, he called to ask me if I wanted to be in his NetCom Team, and I said yes.
Arsenis is a great friend and an objective colleague. If you are wrong, he is going to say it straight to your face. As a Network Commissioner, he did a great job with the Greek, Moldovan and Romanian locals and as Speaker of Network Commission, he was really patient and helpful with the team.

When I came back from my summer vacation, he told me that he was thinking of resigning because of his studies in Sweden. I tried to make him change his mind, I offered to do his tasks. Still, he resigned and I am doing his tasks anyway, but I love him! But, you know… we are both workaholics.

You were really active all those years you are member of AEGEE. What kept your motivation up? Is there anyone who inspired you?
Arsenis: I joined AEGEE in April 2011. Even if it has been almost three years and a half since then, I do not believe that I was so active. There are people who have done more in less period of time! And of course I was not always motivated to continue. To be honest, in May of 2012 (a few months after the NWM in London) I was ready to give up AEGEE. The organization was fun for me, but not something more… Then I got an e-mail from AEGEE-L by Mayri Tiido (current Projects and Communication Director of AEGEE-Europe), where she was looking for AEGEEans to help create the Health4Youth project team. That was the decisive moment where my personal interests fitted with the activities of AEGEE. Mayri and Matthijs Overhaal (AEGEE-Tartu) were always my motivation-battery all that period. I am grateful I met them and I spent some wonderful moments with them while I was living in the Netherlands! In December of 2012, my local (AEGEE-Thessaloniki), had some HR problems and it was about to close. I decided to take the lead with Ioannis Soultanidis and after a year we managed to provide a sustainable local… our little baby! During that year, Beata Matuszka (Network Director of AEGEE-Europe, 2012-2014) -as my first AEGEE friend since 2011- was the person who was motivating me to continue, as well as the change I was seeing inside the local was an internal motivation for me. Last year, as Network Commissioner, Pauline Létard (AEGEE-Toulouse) and Mattia Abis (AEGEE-Cagliari) were the people who inspired me. Those two people had so many locals, but at the same time were the best NetCom members. Their contribution to the team was amazing and I was trying to be like them every day.  Last semester, as Speaker of the Network Commission, my Speaker Team was the best motivation-drinks that I could ever have! I already knew how Mattia Abis worked, but I had also the chance to meet Ana
 Potočnik (AEGEE-Ljubljana), whom is similar to us. It was the “super workaholic” team since our communication was 24/7 active.

Which was your greatest achievement in AEGEE?
I really do not have any…. I have only small achievements. Maybe, the thing that I helped more in AEGEE is when I was a Network Commissioner, bringing this role closer to the locals. I was trying to be very accessible to them and available 24/7. I believe that was something new for those locals and they really appreciated it.

You got a new position at your university. What exactly is it?

The first week of my Master studies we had elections for the Steering Committee of my Department (Master of Public Health). A Steering Committee member does, more or less, the same that a NetCommie does: interact with the students, propose ideas about what it could be changed/removed/added in the course program, create events for the students, discuss about dissatisfaction towards some teachers, etc. Then, once a month, that member joins a meeting with the Head of Department and two professors-representatives (so it’s like the CD) and brings those issues on the table. Everything can happen there: from adding a course to changing a professor students didn’t like (it happened already before). The best part of this position is that it’s paid.

When I heard about this Committee I liked it from the beginning. I am coming from a country (Greece) where the political parties have invaded the universities’ student parties and the voice of the students has been demolished. Moreover, any disagreement that we had as students never influenced the work of the professors for a change, and the course-evaluations were a bureaucratic procedure that happening every semester.

Here (in Sweden) it’s totally different. The students have the power to influence the whole program. They can see what is missing and propose alternatives for a better quality at the program. And their word is heard and implemented instantly, not after couple of semesters or years, but the following week. It’s simply awesome!!

Are you thinking of establishing or helping in establishing locals in Sweden?
(laughs) That was the first thing that I have been asked when I moved to Sweden from Greece. I was asked to help the re-establishment of AEGEE-Lund and the creation of AEGEE-Stockholm. In both cases I replied negatively.The reason is that I am very tired to focus so intensively in AEGEE again and that soon. You must never forget that establishing a new local demands a lot of time (for PR, recruitment, local activities, university contacts, etc) that I do not have!
But as I told to the Network Director, Holger Schmitt, I have no issue about helping with some knowledge transfer from my experience as president of an AEGEE local or Network Commissioner.

This semester you had only seven locals, the Greek ones. What do you think that should be done with them on the next term?
Internally, they should start cooperating with each other. Unfortunately, it was very difficult for me to bring them at the same table all together. The last years in Greece, people stopped being interested in what was happening outside their door. It’s sad that also happened in AEGEEan Greek locals. I had the same issue with the Romanian locals at the beginning, but we managed to solve it and they did a great job in this direction. It’s more difficult to change a Greek mind. I hope they will manage to cooperate after the NWM in Ioannina. We added a workshop especially for this aim, and I hope the organizers of the NWM will coordinate it successfully.
Externally, it’s more difficult to say. It depends on the locals’ distribution from the new Network Commissioners at the Agora Cagliari and the person who will take them over. I hope I will see the Greek-speaking locals eventually with the rest of the Balkans or the Turkish and not with the Romanian ones again. The issue of the distance isolated the locals during the first period of my term and it was bad for networking. Bringing the Greek speaking locals with the Turkish ones or the rest of the Balkans will help a lot the networking for both sides.
But all those are scenarios. Everything depends on what will be discussed on the table of the locals’ distribution after the elections at the Agora.

What are you going to miss the most from AEGEE and from the Network Commission?
To be honest I cannot tell! After leaving AEGEE, I joined the Steering Committee of my department and also with another few students around Sweden we are working on establishing the “Swedish Network for Master’s in International and Public Health”, or simply SNMIPH. I joined both because they are very similar to AEGEE work and especially the one of the Network Commission such as networking, collecting both sides (students with professors, students with alumnies, etc), supporting.
Thus, I can say that I am still on an AEGEE mood but now outside of AEGEE. Maybe with less people now interacting at my workplace and also with people with an older average age than in AEGEE. Which is something good… for now!

Any advices for the next Speaker of Network Commission?

I will not speak about the current Speaker of the Network Commission (Ana Potočnik). She is great at her work and she knows exactly what to do. The role of the Speaker of NetCom has no big differences from the position of the NetCom. He/she does the same as the rest of the team does, but the extra tasks are to do overview of the NetCom every couple of days and push the team if the direction goes wrong or slowly.
Thus to the Speaker that would be elected after the Agora, I wouldn’t say anything else than I’d say to each NetCommie: work 24/7 for AEGEE, do not be lazy to contribute to the NetCom issues, reply to mails no later than 48h, travel and have fun.

Do you plan to get back on track in AEGEE after your Master’s is over?
I am not totally gone from AEGEE. I am still following the NetCom issues and contact the Speaker Team if it’s necessary. But I do not have time to reply on mails or participating at NetCom discussions.
So far, I am local-less. The board from AEGEE-Thessaloniki was gentle to let me use my intranet account. I contacted AEGEE-Kobenhavn (the closest AEGEE local to my city) but the communication is a bit slow from both sides. I hope will find my next local soon and maybe interact about some AEGEE issues. But for sure I am not going to do something which demands a lot of time, because I do not have. After the Master’s, I am not sure if I will return to AEGEE. It’s also the issue that I will have to find a job and gain eventually some money.

What do his AEGEE friends say about Arsenis?
Ana Potočnik, AEGEE-Ljubljana: “It’s really hard to write something not to sound too cheesy. To be honest, I didn’t like Arsenis at first (he doesn’t know this yet). But after a few meetings we really clicked. He turned out tp be one of the most organised and funny people I ever worked with. I will definitely miss him in our Speaker team and without his master skills for organising timelines, I will miss many deadlines”
Aggeliki Achtypi, AEGEE-Patra: “My personal opinion is that Arsenis is two people in one body! What do I mean? Arsenis, in his personal life, is an amazing person, funny, sweet, polite and really a gentleman! In his Network Commision life, he was more serious, stubborn, and patient! Sometimes, I think he was more serious than he had to be. But this behavior helped a lot to connect between us, the boards and the Greek antennae too! The most important for me is that he is the reason that I’m involved more in AEGEE in European Level. P.s. Arsenis, don’t kill me!”
Fotis Pastrakis, AEGEE-Kastoria: “Typical, but not strict. Straightforward guy, but not rude. Very cooperative and always ready to work hard. He honors the title of being “Member of the Month” with his name.”
Dimitra Amorgianou, AEGEE-Athina: “A guy with good taste in chicks and a person that you’re going to enjoy working with! Also, a good friend!”
Danae Matakou, AEGEE-Athina: “Arsenis is a person I appreciate a lot because I learned a lot working with him… He is a great team player and always willing to help, very organized and always gives 110% of himself to what he does! And most importantly he is a great friend you can always depend on!”
Fotini Touska, AEGEE-Thessaloniki: “Arsenis is the person who convinced me not only to join AEGEE, but also to run a position in the board. He helped me a lot during the first months of my term. He is objective, but sometimes he is over-objective. He has really soft hair! I’m sure he is having fun in Sweden…”

Written by Lia Tuska, AEGEE-Sofia

With only a few days left until Autumn Agora Zaragoza 2013, there is still time left to introduce you to another candidate for Network Commission. Arsenis Tselengidis comes from AEGEE-Thessaloniki and has submitted his candidature on behalf of him and his team of three other highly motivated Greek youngsters. Let’s find out more about them!

Please tell us more about the team with whom together you want to take care of the Network!

I strongly believe in the team’s working spirit. I am not the best and I will never be. Always, somewhere in the world, there will be someone better than me. That’s why I love being surrounded by experts. And these experts in my team for the Network Commission are Lia Tuska (AEGEE-Kastoria), Danae Matakou (AEGEE-Athina) and Stavros Stavrakis (AEGEE-Athina). All of them are experienced members of AEGEE and have worked in different bodies of our association. Each of them will handle a pool of AEGEEans of the Focus Area, where we will exchange ideas and build Focus Area strategies and databases. Lia, Danae and Stavros together are the first team of experts. If everything goes well, after the Agora we will make this team bigger because we are looking for more experts to cover some specific fields of AEGEE.

Now let’s talk about your programme as I am curious to learn more about it. You want to introduce grandparents for several locals. What exactly is your plan?

Grandparent system is not something unknown to AEGEE. It’s an internal form of the mentoring system. An experienced member of a local is the parent and another local (kid-local) can ask him/her any questions.

The grandparent system focuses more on Human Resources. Some small locals have problems to maintain some new members or the HR responsible has a lot of responsibilities to handle. The grandparent system puts everyone in the local into HR action. When a new member joins AEGEE, he/she meets his/her grandparent which is another member of the local. This person is responsible to explain, guide, and consult the newbie in AEGEE’s lifestyle. This system first of all helps the HR responsible, but most of all the members themselves. They get activated in gaining new knowledge in order to fulfill the “needs” of the new members. This system is more a personal focusing HR strategy and also creates stronger bonds between the members of a local.

I am also curious to know about your other ideas mentioned in the programme – “Improving the visibility of the locals in their local community” and “Introduction to the “Symbiosis” Project”. Can you tell us more about the way you plan to realise this?

That was when the intercultural manager inside me was talking! The first step is to observe and to understand the needs of the local community. After this we must check what kind of tools we have and which ones we can use for this specific community. Then you plan your project and finally you present it to the local community. For example, in Thessaloniki the local community is preparing for the European Youth Capital 2014. The most important things for this event and this city are the visibility and the sustainability.

What can we as AEGEE offer? Our brand, our projects and our members. Imagine all of these packed in a perfect project which will promote the city in Europe and bring students there for the following years. The local community will then know that AEGEE exists and has a sustainable project which promotes the city every year.

Talking about Symbiosis Project, I’ll let the mastermind behind it talk – Stavros Stavroulakis! The Symbiosis would be an annual meeting that will bring all Balkan Antennae together through culture, creativity and innovation. Symbiosis will act as a regional hub that will strengthen the bonds of all Balkan antennae and also reintroduce the locals to each other on an annual basis. We aim to start with the first meeting in September 2014 and from then onwards we will provisionally name 10 antennae that can host the event each year. Our goal is to have the Symbiosis start as something small and then through our 10 year plan see it prosper into a mainstream meeting place for the youth of AEGEE!

You have participated in 4 Network Meetings (NWMs) so it seems that you like them.  What exactly do you find interesting about NWMs and what do you think about their current format and what are possible areas of improvement?

Yes, I love them! I believe NWMs are the connection between the local and the European level of AEGEE. It’s the perfect place for the new members to understand our association, but also an important event for the experienced members. In AEGEE you will never know everything and the NWMs are the place where you can learn and share knowledge with the rest of the network. Also, it is a chance to meet important people, like NetCommies and CD members and have fun with them!

I like the current format because it fulfills the real aim of a NWM – the bridge between the new and the old, the known with the unknown. It is not easy to want to improve or to change something in NWMs because each one of them is in reality totally different from the rest. Even if you do the same workshop in London or in Thessaloniki, you would have different outcomes. The different people from different Focus Areas lead to a diversity which contributes to a unique NWM. That’s why I love them!

And the last question – you have a very interesting field of studies – Nutrition & Dietetics. How did you get interested in that and which year of your studies are you currently in?

Thank you! The interest in health and especially in nutrition started in high school. But now, almost 3 years in AEGEE, I can admit that I am also interested in Business Management & Administration! I have just finished my studies (including an Erasmus Module on International Food Management, according to which we had to work for 6 months on creation of a food product and to promote it in another European country according to the cultural characteristics of this country) and I am waiting for my graduation. After the Agora, I am planning to start the applications for master studies on Public Health & Nutrition. I want to change the world!

Written by Anita Kalmane, AEGEE-Ogre

You know them… You have seen them before… Where? In Skopje and most recently at Agora Enschede where they were approved as a new contact. Their name Kastoria, contact Kastoria!

The AEGEEan interviewed Nicholas Varveris, the founder of the new Greek contact.

1) So congratulations for the new contact! Now the question everyone is dying to know the answer to – whose idea was it to establish this new AEGEE contact? 

Thank you very much for your kind words and of course for the interest in writing about us and finding out more about what we do here in Kastoria. Over the past year I was the Public Relations Coordinator  for the administrative board of AEGEE-Thessaloniki, where I learnt a lot and travelled to many places.  I can say with great confidence that I fell in love with it. As I’m studying in Kastoria, many of my fellow students were asking me about it and after some discussions with my department’s administration, I realized that they were very willing to help us create our own antenna, here in Kastoria. Surely, Kastoria’s geography and beauty made this idea even better.  

2) What difficulties did you encounter along the way?  

I had never before worked to create an antenna nor did I have experience with the paperwork that a non-governmental organisation (NGO) requires, so in the beginning it all looked huge. I had to present the organization to the administration of my department, in order to have their approval but also their support. At the same time, I had to stay consistent with my obligations to the Comité Directeur, I want to thank Jüri Kirpu for supporting us, as well as all the members of the Comité Directeur, Manos Valasis (Former President of AEGEE-Europe), and all the members of the other Greek-speaking locals who showed us the way and made things easier with their help. And of course my fellow students who without yet knowing much about what AEGEE exactly is, showed willingness to learn and organize, we wouldn’t have done so much so quickly.  

3) How many members do you have until now? 

About 20 members have signed up so far, but the friends of the future AEGEE-Kastoria are quite a lot and increasing! As you know Greece is experiencing the economic crisis quite harshly and students are reluctant to give money to an NGO, even if the fee is really small. We are determined though to find ways for everyone who wants to join to be able to do so!

4) How have you been promoting your local so far?

We have already started printing out information leaflets for those wishing to get a first taste. Nevertheless, I am a supporter of ‘word-of-mouth’ promotion; almost everyone in Kastoria has heard about us, and we are still a contact.  

5) Any future plans or events you want to share with the network?  

There are two main directions on which we will for now be focusing in future AEEGEE-Kastoria:

a) First is an experimental phase which means we will try to operate all the European Working Groups at a local level (results will then be forwarded to the administrators of the working groups at the European level).

b) Secondly, in co-operation with the contact in Ioannina, we will establish a Balkan environmental collaboration focusing on the lakes of the surrounding geographical area (Ioannina, Kastoria, Prespa, Ohrid).  

6) Do you have an advice for others on how to get started at a local level and then get to the European one? 

I honestly have no advice to give. Anyone who wants to create something will do it. After all, facing difficulties and trying to put into effect what you love can offer you immense knowledge. The only thing I have to say to anyone who has ideas is: don’t be afraid and don’t be lazy!

7) Name 5 reasons for people to visit Kastoria and its’ AEGEE crew!

a) Wonderful natural beauty found in such a small city.

b) Geographical location which links Kastoria to the entire Northern Greece and the Balkans.

c) Immense support from the community of Kastoria and the administration of our home institution.

d) Co-operation with all local organisations (which gives us all the opportunity to experience a great deal of activities).

e) We love what we do and we promise an amazing stay with surprises no one will expect!

Thank you and good luck for the future, Kastoria!

Written by Andra Toma, AEGEE-Bucureşti

It is no secret that because of the revolution of Facebook we sometimes stumble upon seeing friends congratulating another person because of his/her birthday. This is normal, but what might seem less normal is when the same people post a “happy birthday” message on the wall of a stuffed animal. However, that is exactly what is happening on more and more occasions.

AEGEE-København has Gorm Junior, AEGEE-Lund has Pippi Longstocking, AEGEE-Madrid has Retirito, and the list goes on. They have Facebook profiles, they have birthdays, and they are hosting AEGEE events! It has become more and more common for antennae to have a mascot that they bring to different AEGEE events.

Other antennae have real animals as mascots. It might seem that this is due to the cute AEGEE-Izmir dog spreading love around the gym during EBM. This dog, which is named Arzu Lu, is however not the AEGEE-Izmir mascot but “only” belongs to AEGEE-Izmir member Simge Gizem. Actually AEGEE-Izmir does not have any mascot at all and for sure there are some people that think that they should have a stuffed look-a-like dog named Arzu II to represent them. Antennae that actually do have a real-life mascot are, e.g., AEGEE-Düsseldorf (a dog named Luna) and AEGEE-Piliscsaba (a cat named Cicus Pazmaneus whose story is elaborated further down in the article).

Development of AEGEE Awards 2012

The AEGEEan is working hard on organizing AEGEE Awards 2012 and the idea of rewarding the antenna with the best mascot came up. For this reason, The AEGEEan made a poll on our Facebook page last month in which we asked which ist he cutest mascot. Many AEGEE members pitched in and five particular mascots became the nominees for “Cutest mascot 2012.” And the nominees are:

The famous badger

If you have attended an event with AEGEE-Eskisehir you will most likely recognize their mascot on the picture to the left. It is featured on the sweaters from the local and their stickers too. Stickers which they, as any other antenna, put everywhere! Its name is Masagor which is a combination of MAScot and AGORa because it was designed for the Autumn Agora Eskisehir 2007. The European badger, whose birthday is October 1st 2007, was chosen as a symbol for the antenna because Eskisehir has a river in the city center which is very famous in Turkey. This river is called Porsuk which is the Turkish word for “badger”. “Also important to mention is that badgers are lovable and brave animals,” says Engin Ergezer, president of AEGEE- Eskisehir. The mascot itself is not a stuffed nor a real life animal, but a costume ready to wear.

Leoncio and all his brothers

Leoncio celebrating Christmas in Italy

It is to no huge surprise that Leoncio, the mascot of AEGEE-León, was amongst the popular mascots in The AEGEEans poll since he is one of the most famous mascots out there. There is a Leoncio in Denmark, a Leoncio in Italy, and of course a Leoncio in León but most likely other European places, too. The original Leoncio, although no one knows where he is today, was “born” in 2008. As some of you might guess, the name derives from the name of the city, which also the reason why it is a lion. León means “a lion” in Spanish and moreover it is the symbol of their city.  AEGEE-León is very generous and shows its appreciation to people whom the local cherishes (and who value AEGEE-León) by giving them a Leoncio. It started as a way of promoting the local when the antenna was small and members wanted to gain fame in Europe. “In all manners, Leoncio is like the precious ring from The Lords of the rings, it always comes back to its owner. Leoncio always has sad eyes, he is only happy whenever he is in León,” fundraiser for the Youth Unemployment project David García Rodriguez says about the mascot of AEGEE-León.

"Uca's" t-shirt

The notorious Spanish cow with her own t-shirt

Another Spanish mascot in the race to win the award is Uca, the mascot of AEGEE-Santander. She was born a little after the antenna was founded back in the summer of 2008 in connection with their first Summer University. According to her Facebook profile the birthday has been set to be the 23^rd of August. She was named Uca because UCA is the Cantabrian way of ending words. All Cantabrian words always ends with –uco or –uca. The choice of having a cow representing the antenna is because cows are amongst the characteristics that are part of the landscape of Santander. Uca ALWAYS comes along whenever AEGEE-Santander is travelling with Erasmus, going to a local training course (LTC) or a Network meeting (NWM). She also travelled to the Agora in Skopje etc. The T-Shirt of AEGEE-Santander will be launched soon and Uca is of course the main feature on it.

An addition to the Greek family

Sofoklis is one of the newest mascots in the network. He belongs to AEGEE-Thessaloniki and was added to their family just before their last NWM back in October 2011. He got his name from his godmother, the secretary of AEGEE-Thessaloniki, Konstantina Katrimpouza who named him Sofoklis because of its beautiful eyes that emit wisdom. The Greek antenna chose an elephant because it is the most faithful animal to its family. All members close to AEGEE-Thessaloniki treat each other as if they were blood-related so they could not have chosen a more appropriate mascot to add to their family. He is eager to travel, but always return to home. Sofoklis is too young to have T-Shirts, brothers, or legendary stories – but AEGEE-Thessaloniki cannot wait to release him in Europe and they are sure that he will gain interesting tales rather sooner than later.

The Hungarian university cat

His name is Cicus pazmaneus and belongs to AEGEE-Piliscsaba. The University of Piliscasaba is catholic and therefore all its buildings have Latin names, even the university bar got a Latin name invented by the students, so it was a no-brainer that the cat should have a Latin name too. He belongs to everybody and hangs around the university spending his time begging for food and listening to presentations. At night he is locked inside the building which causes trouble for the security guards who has to hurry to the university whenever the alarm system goes off only to find out that it was caused by Cicus Pazmaneus strolling around the building. In this case the mascot of AEGEE-Piliscasaba was not invented by the antenna itself. He rose to fame on Facebook, after a mysterious guy created a Facebook account for it, and the cat then became a real star. People tend to post photos on his page where he is in funny situations e.g. in a flower pot or in front of a computer in the computer room.

“We chose him as our mascot because we wanted a real showman cat who is the most likely to bring us luck,” Kata Szabó says about making Cicus Pazmaneus mascot of AEGEE-Piliscasaba. However, the Hungarian antenna has realized that they cannot bring him for AEGEE events around Europe. The solution to this is that they are right now are looking for a stuffed look-a-like cat, not to replace him but so that they can bring his spirit whereever they go.

The final voting for the “cutest mascot” award will begin, alongside with the voting for the other categories, Monday 2^nd of April 2012.

The final voting for the “cutest mascot” award will begin, alongside with the voting for the other categories, Monday 2^nd of April 2012.

Written by Patricia Anthony, AEGEE-København

Thanks to Anil Kacan, Kata Szabó, Engin Ergezer, Ilenia Gurnale & Eleni Buni for contributing with pictures for the article.