Upon arrival, we took a walk through the European Quarter, where we visited the Visitors’ Centre of the Council of the European Union and the “Experience Europe” exhibition centre. At the Council of the European Union, we were able to admire the grandeur of the building.After taking part in some interactive activities that allowed us to learn about the structure, functioning, and dynamics of the European Council, we participated in a quis that tested our knowledge. At the end of this activity, we had na enriching conversation with the centre’s representative, who kindly answered all our questions, clarified our doubts, and talked to us about the meetings held by European leaders.We also had the unique opportunity to visit areas usually closed to the public, including the meeting room where European leaders gather to make major decisions, as well as the interpreter booths where meeting translations take place.Later, we visited the “Experience Europe” building, a space where we engaged in several interactive activities and games, watched virtual reality presentations, and viewed videos that allowed us to learn more about the prominent leader of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen – the first woman to hold such a prestigious position in the European Union. She is one of the great leadership examples we look up to, as she managed to balance her family life with her professional career, making her a key figure for our project.We also had the chance to explore some of the main historical streets of Brussels and visit the impressive Grand Place, with its magnificent buildings.The next day, despite the bad weather, we strolled near the Royal Palace of Brussels, where the royal family gathers for major national events, as well as through the Parc de Bruxelles, located in front of the palace. We also visited the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula – where royal weddings and ceremonies take place – and the Maison du Roi (Museum of the City of Brussels).Of course, no visit to Brussels would be complete without seeing the city’s famous statues: Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis.And so our trip came to na end. However, the memories and lessons learned throughout this experience will stay with us forever!

Our Wednesday began with a turbulent journey to Amsterdam. After a short break, we strolled through the city’s typical streets, where we were able to observe the cultural diversity it has to offer. The following day, we explored the Rijksmuseum, which showcases the strategic vision and innovation of the Dutch that allowed them to become a global power. Next, we visited the Van Gogh Museum. We realized that this iconic artist inspired future generations with his art, and also taught us a valuable lesson: even in the face of difficulties, we should not give up on what we love. In the same museum, we spoke with an employee who told us about the museum and how it operates. At the end of the day, we took a boat tour through Amsterdam’s canals, which allowed us to observe the city’s complex architecture and urban planning. Through this activity, we were able to admire the achievements of the great leaders the city had in the past.

Leadership in motion Our adventure continued in Lille, where, after a stop at the hotel, we visited the Palais des Beaux-Arts. There, we had the opportunity to admire works of art by cultural leaders who marked the 17th century in various fields such as painting, sculpture, ceramics, and more. One detail that impressed us was the fact that the information was available in Braille.Next, we walked through the streets of Lille’s historic center, where we were able to observe different architectural styles from various periods.The following day began with a visit to Lille’s market, where we got to discover typical regional products. Afterwards, we headed to the Citadelle, a park where the ruins of the city’s old fortification are located. This site honors one of the most important French leaders: Charles de Gaulle, a general who led the French armed forces during World War II and later became president of the country.In the afternoon, we vivisiteLa Vielle Bourse exchange and, finally, we went to the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Treille, an important religious and architectural monument, known for its eclectic architecture, the result of several phases of construction.

We began by visiting the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, a museum that uses modern technology to tell the story of this remarkable figure. Through na immersive experience, we felt as though we were witnessing the events in real time. This visit provided na opportunity to analyze Jeanne D’Arc’s leadership in terms of influence and military strategy. We highlight that, upon entering, we were given headphones that allowed us to hear the narration in Portuguese.Next, we visited the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, where we had the chance to admire works of art by leading artists who challenged the norms of their time, innovating and initiating new artistic movements.In addition, the leadership of the museum’s director is also evident. Visitors can enjoy coffee or a snack surrounded by works of art. There is even a room where you can sit or lie on pillows, listening to live classical music while simultaneously appreciating the art.Later, we explored the Church of Jeanne D’Arc, the Place du Vieux-Marché, and the site of the pyre where Jeanne D’Arc was burnes, symbols of her legacy in the city of Rouen.Finally, we walked across a bridge over the River Sena, where we admired busts of great leaders from different fields, including the bust of Vasco da Gama.The city of Rouen has a good leader, as culture has been made accessible to everyone, most museums offer free admission and live shows.

Our great adventure, as part of the “Together we Rise” project, began at Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto), where we boarded a flight to Paris.Once at Orly Airport, we embraced the spirit of our theme “Leadership”, by selecting the “leader duo” responsible for managing the logistics of this first day. Their first task was to guide the group in catching the train to Rouen, the first stop on our journey.In Rouen, we had the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We began our visit at the Gros Horloge, built during the medieval period to allow the city’s residentes to tell the time and organize their daily lives. Over the years, it has become a true symbol of the city.Next, we visited the Catedral de Notre – Dame de Rouen, where the city’s most iconic figure, Jeanne D’ Arc, was tried and condemned. This monument also reminds us that great achievements require vision, perseverance, and the continuity of strong and inspiring Leadership.

On 22 July 2025, participants and companions of the ‘Together We Rise – Leadership’ project met online to finalise details of an international trip forming part of the programme. During the meeting, they discussed practical information relating to boarding, necessary documents, the travel schedule, accommodation, rules of coexistence, and the travel programme. The accompanying teachers answered questions and emphasised the importance of commitment and responsibility for everyone involved in this significant stage of the project. There was a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air, as the trip represents a unique opportunity for learning, cultural exchange, and developing leadership skills in an international context. The ‘Together We Rise – Leadership’ project focuses on training young leaders through transformative experiences, and this trip is one of the most eagerly awaited moments for all participants. By the end of the meeting, the group had demonstrated their unity and readiness to represent their communities with pride and respect.

On the 15th of April 2025, the participants and facilitators of the leadership project “Together We Rise” met online to finalise the itinerary, the accommodation and the activities to be carried out during the 10-day trip across Europe. The places to be visited were chosen to fit in with the theme to be worked on and to allow reflection on leadership in different sectors, the challenges faced and how leadership has evolved throughout history. It is intended that this project will provide an innovative and experiential approach to leadership development, combining the richness of cultural exploration with reflection on the principles and practices of leadership in different contexts. This is a unique opportunity to explore new places and cultures, to step out of one’s comfort zone, to give young people the freedom and responsibility to decide their own itinerary and to change plans, appealing to their adventurous and collaborative spirit. This adventure will undoubtedly encourage the development of organisational, decision-making and problem-solving skills, contributing to the personal growth of each participant.