Emilios Charalambous from Cyprus was selected to lead the Summer Academy this year as a Head Trainer. Emilios is 21, he studies law in the UK, and he has been active in EYP since 2015. Emilios has joined EYP’s only training event for board members and active members of National Committees in the past, and will bring fresh ideas this August to Albania! We have decided to ask him a few questions:
You have already been part of two Summer Academies in capacity of trainee and a trainer. What motivated you to apply as a Head Trainer of this project?
As altruistic and cliché as this may sound, I was motivated by a desire to give back, but in my own way. Being a part of both positions in the past has allowed me to view the event from both sides of the spectrum, and I viewed the position of a Head Trainer for this event as my opportunity to improve the experience of both parties, and ultimately the impact of the event on the network.
If you could change one thing about how all National Committees function, what would it be?
I would place more emphasis upon the individuals than the positions. Many National Committees have positions with set tasks that don’t always complement the qualities and skill set of the individual member that undertakes them. By being more attentive of the abilities of the individual member, each position can be transformed accordingly and allow everyone to operate on their very own highest potential, thus elevating the position itself.
Tea break or a Coffee break? (Emilios lives in the UK)
Definitely tea break. Coffee gives you a mental boost but tea, tea boosts the soul. I’m still not feeling 100% comfortable with milk in tea though.
What can EYPers expect to take away from Summer Academy this year?
Everyone attending this year’s Summer Academy should expect something more than just simple information sharing. People should expect to take away a greater understanding of their own working practices. Although our core concept revolves around fostering collective knowledge, this year’s event will also be focused on the ways information can be applied, not only in terms of strategies but also in terms of attitude, cooperation and collaboration.
Anything else you would like to share?
I would like to share one of my favourite quotes, one which I find highly relatable to Summer Academy 2020: “The real opportunity for success lies within the person and not in the job.”
