Ivan, who despite his disability, was inspired by Erasmus+ to become an active athlete

My name is Ivan and I`m 22 year old from Bulgaria. My participation in a youth mobility project two years ago changed my life. I was invited by the Bulgarian organization "Institute of Cultural Heritage'' as a participant. During mobility, I became acquainted with the possibilities of Erasmus+ Programme; I was inspired by many shared stories and benefits that other young people had received with the support of Erasmus+. I also learned about the Sports opportunities under Erasmus+. As a result, I have formed positive attitudes towards Erasmus+'s opportunities to participate in mobility, in sports activities, including for university mobility. I made the decision to continue my training at the National Sports Academy, in classical wrestling. I became part of the National Hearing Impaired Combat Team. At the moment I am an active athlete with medals from European and world competitions. I also won third place in the Deaf Olympics. I'm about to take part in university mobility next year.

In addition to my development as an active athlete, I also find time for volunteering with the support of the European Solidarity Corps. I am currently volunteering in a solidarity project, contributing to environmental protection to reducing waste by promoting composting in urban environments.

Thanks to my first participation in youth mobility, I realized what an important role this participation played in my personal and professional development. I will continue to participate in initiatives supported by Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps. I will continue to share common European values and promote the participation of other young people with disabilities towards active participation and youth initiative.

And this is the story of a young man who, despite his disability inspired by the ideas of the Erasmus+ Programme, develops as an active athlete and gives his solidarity contribution to society.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026