On the 24th of May 2023, a group of 39 participants, hailing from eight port communities, arrived in Barcelona (Spain) ready to embark on a truly unique journey, the YEP MED Talent. Little did they know that this journey would transcend the boundaries of a typical training programme, ultimately transforming their lives and forging lifelong connections and friendships. This was the final training designed for a select group of students from the different port communities and organised in Barcelona by the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport in collaboration with the Port of Barcelona. Together the group of young people overcame intercultural barriers, as almost all of them spoke Arabic, some Spanish and a few French and Italian. Despite that, they were bound together by a common purpose; to be the paradigm shift within the port logistics sector.

Their journey to Barcelona represented the culmination of two years of collaborative training, an intensive period during which participants had honed their skills and deepened their understanding of the port industry.  Building upon this strong foundation, the YEP MED programme organizers crafted a practical course workshop that aimed to push the boundaries of knowledge and expertise in sustainable maritime transport and intermodal logistics.

What is YEP MED Talent?

YEP MED Talent is an exclusive edition of the practical course workshop designed for pre-selected students who have successfully completed previous courses under the YEP MED project. Over the course of seven days, participants engaged in immersive learning experiences both within the vibrant city of Barcelona and aboard a Ro-Pax vessel traveling from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Italy), the Gateway to Rome. This unique opportunity not only allowed them to expand their expertise in intermodal transport, international trade, and logistics but also provided a platform for networking with talented peers from the diverse port communities represented in the YEP MED project.

From more than 80 applications, 5 candidates from each port-logistics community have been selected. To apply, they had to submit their CVs, letters of recommendation and statements of intent. All applicants have had to have previously successfully completed one of the previous editions of the YEP MED Vocational Training or Occupational Training courses in International Trade and Administrative Procedures. 

Moreover, making sure that the teachers of the institutes that have collaborated with YEP MED also benefit from the project's methodology. Having completed the "Training of Trainers" series prior to YEP MED Talent, 2 teachers from each port community were invited to participate. Barcelona, Valencia, Civitavecchia, Aqaba, Damietta, Tunis and Beirut all sent two representatives to join the students on this transformative journey. 

The YEP MED Talent journey extended far beyond the classrooms or conference rooms. It became a comprehensive exploration of ideas, practices, and experiences that illuminated the interconnectedness of sustainable maritime transport and logistics, as well as an incubator for future ideas to flourish. Through a series of engaging workshops, hands-on activities, and thought-provoking discussions, participants were guided to navigate the complex landscape of the maritime industry, gaining a comprehensive understanding of its intricacies and challenges. The programme fostered an environment that encouraged collaboration and shared learning - the travel companions from each port community were divided into inter-cultural groups, and were tasked with solving and presenting a case study. Through group projects, interactive simulations, and networking events, participants were not only exposed to a wealth of industry knowledge but also had the opportunity to forge connections with like-minded peers, mentors, and experts.

Moreover, participating in this exclusive course offered the participants a transformative opportunity that extended beyond traditional training. A significant aspect of the programme's added value was the inclusion of a recruitment company that provided a valuable tool for self-assessment and career guidance. Throughout the course, representatives from the recruitment company were able to analyse the performance of each participant, considering their skills, strengths, and behavioural patterns. This comprehensive evaluation served as a compass, guiding individuals toward a clearer understanding of their capabilities and professional aspirations. Student participants then received personalized career advice and recommendations tailored to their unique profiles. The collaboration with the recruitment company equipped the young participants with the tools and guidance necessary to navigate their emerging professional journey with confidence and purpose.

The Essence of High-Performance Teams

Recognizing that teams are the foundation of organizational success in the port-logistics community, YEP MED Talent placed a strong emphasis on building high-performance teams. In an ever-evolving work environment, where new realities in the logistics sector are shaping employment, the course delved into the dynamics of teamwork and its crucial role in achieving valued objectives. Participants gained insights into the complexities of creating, leading, and participating in high-performance teams while immersing themselves in the context of intermodal transport during their journey from Barcelona to Civitavecchia.

"Participating in the YEP MED Talent programme was a truly unique and delightful experience for me” reflects Shabnam Fattahi from Italy, a participant in the YEPMED Talent programme. “This journey provided me with invaluable opportunities to broaden my professional horizons and personal growth. Each person I met during this transformative experience contributed to my development and left a lasting impact.”

Relationships driving the talent revolution

One of the most notable and impactful achievements of the programme lies in the relationships that have flourished among its participants. These relationships have become an invaluable source of personal and professional growth. What sets these connections apart is their ability to transcend the traditional roles of colleagues and teachers, evolving into genuine bonds that have left a lasting impact on all. As participants reflected on their time together, it become evident that the sense of longing and nostalgia was not solely for the activities and shared experiences, but for the remarkable environment cultivated throughout the programme.

At the core of this environment was the creation of an open and supportive space that extended far beyond the physical boundaries. The training gave light to a space where trust and understanding thrived, fostering an atmosphere of genuine care and encouragement. Within this unique setting, students and teachers have felt empowered to express themselves authentically, knowing that their thoughts and opinions are not only respected but valued, leading to meaningful discussions and transformative learning experiences.

The participants have formed a network of support, eager to celebrate each other's accomplishments and help during challenging times. Whether through late-night conversations over a cup of coffee or virtual meetups across different time zones, the connections are set to remain steadfast, fuelling a continued sense of belonging and inspiration.

Final thoughts

YEP MED Talent represented a remarkable platform for aspiring maritime professionals to refine their skills, expand their industry knowledge, and forge lifelong connections. By combining immersive learning experiences with practical insights, the course equipped participants with the necessary tools to thrive in the dynamic world of sustainable maritime transport and intermodal logistics. The relationships formed have become an integral part of participants’ personal and professional journeys. The open and supportive environment cultivated has not only facilitated growth and development but has also instilled a sense of belonging and purpose. It is the people met, the connections forged, and the shared experiences cherished that truly define the greatness of this initiative.

The journey that began in Barcelona has left an indelible mark on the participants' personal and professional lives. It was a catalyst for personal growth, igniting a sense of purpose and a renewed commitment to making a positive impact in the maritime industry. The connections and friendships that were formed during this programme will extend far beyond the confines of the training period, serving as a source of support, inspiration, and collaboration throughout their careers. As the revolution of YEP MED Talent continues, it will undoubtedly shape the future leaders of the maritime industry, fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence.