ESN Upgrade: a National Training Experience

Organized by the National Board of ESN Denmark and the volunteers of ESN Aarhus (OC), this training event combined the skills of experienced volunteers and trainers knowledgeable in non-formal education techniques. Trainers delivered the educational content, focusing on foundational skills for new volunteers and advanced modules for experienced members. The ESN Aarhus team managed organization, logistics, and financial aspects to ensure the event met its objectives. The training event involved approximately 30 volunteers aged 20-30. 

The main purpose of ESN Upgrade is to enhance the skills and knowledge of ESN volunteers throughout Denmark. By introducing dual training tracks, the event catered to varying levels of experience among volunteers, ensuring that each participant received relevant, impactful learning opportunities. This approach is designed to foster proficiency in essential volunteer functions and improve overall effectiveness in volunteer roles.

Depending on their experience in ESN, participants were split into two tracks:

• ESNewbie: this track covered an introduction to ESN's vision, mission and impact, basics of project management, strategies for maintaining motivation, and enhancing communication effectiveness.
• aBoard & Beyond: this track was tailored to local board members and focused on a deeper understanding of ESN's organizational structure, advanced teamwork strategies including diversity inclusion, health and well-being events, managing potential risks and conflicts, and developing transformative leadership skills through effective feedback mechanisms.

Moreover, Team Building activities were integrated to support learning outcomes and ensure that training translates into practical teamwork and collaboration skills.