Magna Vitae parts the waves to help East Lindsey residents live a great life.
Funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund has enabled three East Lindsey residents to discover new horizons and continue their learnings in Denmark.
The two-year cultural exchange programme with the International People’s College, a unique Danish international folk high school in Elsinore, and the British Embassy in Copenhagen provides Emma (30), Louise (58), and Francesca (21) with a 3-month personal learning programme.
With a syllabus of over 40 subjects and classes, the exchange programme is a unique opportunity for local people to enhance skills, grow their networks, and gain experience and knowledge so they can embark on careers in the cultural and creative sector.
Since the funding was awarded at the start of November 2023, the collaborative programme has also provided nine other students with a three-month learning programme. The cultural and creative sector along Lincolnshire’s coast will benefit as the students graduate as a more experienced, educated, and skilled workforce.
East Lindsey District Councillors Steve Kirk, portfolio holder for The Coastal Economy, and Adam Grist, portfolio holder for Market Towns and Rural Economy, said:
“We are thrilled that, thanks to a UKSPF grant, three residents from East Lindsey have been given the life-changing opportunity to continue their learning in a completely different country.
“This international cultural exchange programme is a shining example of why this funding is so important when it comes to supporting our residents and their futures.
“Additionally, we are hopeful that by using the experience and knowledge gained from the programme, these students will go on to be business leaders in the future, supporting our local economy.”
Reflecting on their experiences.
Louise a swimming teacher at the Meridian Leisure Centre, from Tetney said:
“It’s been a great experience in a great place. I’ve walked miles exploring Denmark at every opportunity. I’ve visited Kronborg castle, where Hamlet was set and the Viking ship museum at Roskilde too. I’ve been swimming in the Oresund, which is the narrowest point between Denmark and Sweden. The water is crystal clear and -2c at its coldest.
The time has passed very quickly. The highlight was the cultural evening last weekend. I was very worried about having to entertain the rest of the college but our Northern European, Russia, and Australia group did an excellent job with an international women’s day themed presentation.
“All I can say is that I had a very nice time. Busy and tiring at timed and though I’ll be sorry to leave, I am looking forward to getting back home to Lincolnshire.”
Francesca, 21 who also resides on the East Coast added:
“At the International People’s College, I learned that education isn’t just about books and tests; it’s about connecting with people, embracing new perspectives, and finding the courage to grow through every shared conversation and challenge. “Living with international students at the folk high school is being part of a mix of cultures, each one different but connected by a shared curiosity of wanting to learn more about each other. Every day, we talk about each other’s stories and traditions, creating a sense of family through shared meals and activities.
“It’s a constant reminder that the world is bigger than our own experiences, but we still can share the same little ones. I’ve had a lot of fun with language cafes, student-run cultural evenings and even theatre productions. It feels like we’ve become a global family, and I think that’s something we’ll carry with us for the rest of our lives. “I’m going to miss everyone here, but it’s nice to know that we can make plans to visit each other in the future and show one another the places we call home.”
Emma, 30 explains her rationale on applying for the programme.
“I chose to apply for the program as I really wanted to further my creative and cultural experiences, and the International People’s College provided me with a unique and special environment to do just that!
“I feel very fortunate to have been able to learn from both teachers and fellow students from all over the world, while also spending time doing new things without the pressure of everyday life.
“To be able to do this in Denmark itself was also truly inspirational. One of the subjects I chose was called ‘Exploring Denmark’, where through classes and trips we were able to learn all about and experience the country we were staying in, including its different systems and overall culture.”
Reflecting on the programme Emma added.
“IPC provides students with many unique opportunities in a non-traditional learning environment, which also focuses on creating an inclusive community for everyone to be a part of. My time here really allowed me to expand my knowledge, practice new skills, be a part of discussions, and generally develop as a person.
“The knowledge and feel I have for the world on a more international level is something I will be forever grateful for and always looking to develop, continuing to strive to be the best version of myself as a global citizen.
“The exchange between our small local area which strives to promote similar amazing values and IPC is something I believe to be so important, and I cannot thank Magna Vitae enough for the opportunity. Not only would I like to revisit IPC, but I’d love to be involved in any cultural exchanges in the future, including the amazing things Magna Vitae brings to the local area.”
The cultural exchange programme is Magna Vitae’s latest cultural collaboration project. It builds upon the charitable trust’s experience of working with international partners through projects and programmes of work, SO Festival, People Power Partnership, and the FITS International Volunteer Project.
“We are delighted to work in partnership with the International People’s College to enable a holistic learning experience that broadens horizons and creates pathways to new opportunities. The exchange represents Magna Vitae’s creative ambitions and is part of a wide-ranging international portfolio that delivers an extensive programme of cultural activities.
“We are pleased to hear the positive experience of our local students and look forward to developing a lasting relationship that nurtures an exchange of opportunities.”
– James Turner- Director of Business Development, Magna Vitae.
For further information on Magna Vitae visit www.magnavitae.org
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