On February 17-27, among the picturesque forests and snowy landscapes of Norway took place an international Erasmus+ youth exchange called Valhalla, in which Ukraine was represented by the team of «Poruch». The project was held in the format of a role-playing, which allowed the participants to absorb the atmosphere of Scandinavian mythology.

During the program, young people from 9 European countries were divided into clans that competed with each other in the spirit of the Vikings. The participants tried themselves as magicians, healers and warriors, created banners, wrote songs, invented rituals and heroic stories. The atmosphere was complemented by sword battles, archery and fire shows, which only contributed to a complete immersion in the authentic era.

The project raised such global issues as war and the resultant hatred. The collaboration between participants from different cultures showed that true strength lies in unity. The culmination was the attack on Valhalla, when the clans united to fight a common enemy during Ragnarok. Despite the destruction of the world, its rebirth symbolized hope for a new beginning.

«Valhalla» was an unforgettable experience. The organizers of «CultureClash4U» together with «Skogsro» forest hostel created a unique environment with carefully crafted decorations, costumes, themed music, and fascinating activities. One of the highlights was a concert by Folket Bortafor Nordavinden, a band performing folk Nordic music.

In the end, the participants learned how to fight not only mythical but also their own demons and realized what it means to be a real warrior!