Reignite Your Purpose Partners Gather in Zutphen for Training-the-Trainers Event
On 28–29 April 2026, the partners of the Reignite Your Purpose project met in Zutphen, the Netherlands, for the 3rd Transnational Partner Meeting and a dedicated Training-the-Trainers session focused on the next stage of project implementation.
The meeting took place at Innovatiegilde Pakhuis Noorderhaven and brought together project partners to review progress, discuss the results achieved so far, and prepare for the upcoming piloting of the project’s Action Learning Sets with older adults.
A central focus of the meeting was Work Package 4, which aims to support seniors in rediscovering their skills, interests and sense of purpose through structured group-based activities. The approach encourages participants to reflect on their personal strengths, explore new opportunities for volunteering or community engagement, and set meaningful goals for the future.
During the Training-the-Trainers session, partners were introduced to the methodology and practical tools that will be used during the national pilot activities. The training explored the role of the facilitator, the principles of Action Learning, and the importance of creating a supportive, respectful and motivating environment for participants. Special attention was given to how facilitators can encourage reflection, confidence, social connection and positive action among older adults.
The practical part of the training included exercises and tools such as SMART Goals, Wheel of Life, Thinking Differently, Emotion Cards, Vision Board, Appreciating and Strengthening Relationships, and 6 Degrees of Separation. These tools will help participants identify their existing skills, recognise personal resources, strengthen social bonds, and plan concrete steps towards greater community involvement.
The partners also discussed the piloting process, reporting requirements, evaluation methods and expected results. Each partner organisation will organise Action Learning Set sessions in their country with small groups of older adults. These sessions are expected to provide a safe and encouraging space where participants can reflect on their life experience, explore new possibilities, and build confidence to engage more actively in their communities.
The Zutphen meeting also included discussions on project management, quality assurance, dissemination activities, the project website, and the continuation of social media activities, with partners taking turns in creating and sharing communication content.
The Training-the-Trainers event marked an important step in preparing the partnership for the next phase of Reignite Your Purpose. By equipping facilitators with practical methods and a shared understanding of the Action Learning approach, the project strengthens its capacity to support active ageing, wellbeing and meaningful participation among seniors across Europe.