St John Ambulance and Rescue proudly hosted a week-long international youth exchange programme with Johanniter Unfall Hilfe e.V. Regionalverband Weser-Ems from Oldenburg, Germany. Funded by ERASMUS+, this initiative brought together 24 young volunteers for an immersive experience in cultural exchange, first aid training, and cross-border collaboration.
Building Strong International Volunteer Networks
The youth exchange was the result of months of coordination between the Maltese and German teams. It offered participants a unique opportunity to learn from each other, exchange best practices, and build long-lasting friendships rooted in shared values of service, compassion, and community support. The programme began with interactive sessions that allowed participants to explore each organisation’s structure, mission, and operations. These early workshops set the tone for a week of open dialogue and cooperation.
Discovering Malta’s Cultural and Historical Heritage
As part of the cultural exchange, participants visited some of Malta’s most important heritage sites, including St John’s Co-Cathedral and The President’s Palace in Valletta. These visits provided valuable historical context about the Order of St John and helped deepen the participants’ connection to the legacy both organisations share.
Practical First Aid Simulations and Skill Sharing
A key component of the programme was a series of realistic accident simulation exercises. Participants from both organisations collaborated in high-pressure scenarios designed to improve first aid response and teamwork.
Despite some differences in national training approaches, both teams adapted quickly and worked seamlessly together, demonstrating the power of shared learning in real-time emergency simulations.
Bonding Through Team Building and Leisure Activities
Beyond training, the exchange also emphasised the importance of team bonding. A fun day by the pool, group games, and a communal BBQ helped participants connect on a personal level. Each participant received a commemorative wristband, symbolising the friendships and memories created during the week.
Environmental Action at Fort Madalena
The exchange also included a day of volunteer service at Fort Madalena, where participants cleared overgrowth, cleaned emergency vehicles, and refurbished shared spaces. This initiative reflected the broader mission of both organisations — service beyond the uniform.
From hands-on learning to cultural immersion and social activities, the exchange created a solid foundation for future collaboration between St John Ambulance and Rescue (Malta) and Johanniter Weser-Ems (Germany).
St John Ambulance and Rescue would like to thank ERASMUS+ and everyone involved in organising and supporting this meaningful experience.
