From Challenge to Change: EROS NGO Transformed Through Erasmus
Maria Pitariu, from Cluj-Napoca, Romania, joined the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme at a decisive moment for her NGO, EROS, which promotes sexual education, emotional well-being, and gender equality. At that time, EROS was going through a challenging phase, and Maria was searching for fresh energy and new ways of working. Her passion has always been to bring quality sexual and emotional education to young people in Romania — not because it’s easy, but because it’s necessary.
She discovered the opportunity through a friend who shared a placement in Funchal, Madeira Island with the association My Madeira Island. The focus on sustainability and project writing felt like the perfect match. There she connected with Anastasia Mazur, whose work in non-formal education for sustainable development resonated with Maria’s vision. Their collaboration promised not only technical learning, but also fresh inspiration, creativity, and international cooperation.
Over three months in Madeira, from April to July 2025, Maria co-facilitated workshops on sustainability, biodiversity, and composting, helping participants of all ages engage with complex topics in simple, creative ways. She contributed to projects such as Council of All Beings, Bienal Funchal, and Nature’s Plate, adding digital storytelling, design, and coordination skills. With Anastasia’s guidance, she developed new outreach tools like self-reflection cards, learned advanced project writing methods, and secured eligibility for Google for Nonprofits — a resource that will strengthen her NGO’s work. At the same time, Maria continued leading EROS remotely, applying new strategies to improve team management, visibility, and partnerships.
The exchange gave Maria clarity, confidence, and practical tools to grow EROS sustainably. She deepened her facilitation and project development skills, gained access to digital resources, and built valuable EU contacts. She also expanded her NGO’s reach to a new international market and laid the groundwork for future Erasmus+ collaborations. For Anastasia, hosting Maria meant fresh ideas, energy, and inspiration for her projects. Their partnership grew into mutual trust and a shared vision, with plans to continue joint applications in gender and emotional education.
“This exchange shifted my rhythm and gave me the clarity, courage, and energy I didn’t know I needed. Even though we came from very different fields, we built something meaningful together. Erasmus programme has become a lifeline for EROS to grow and thrive.” Maria Pitariu, New Entrepreneur and founder of EROS https://erosed.eu/
“I truly appreciate the opportunity to have collaborated with Maria through the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs Programme. Beyond her valuable daily contributions to our organisation’s activities, Maria showed genuine appreciation for guidance and eagerness to explore possible collaborations within EU programmes. She reminded us of the importance of staying laser-focused on our objectives and priority topics – by demonstrating how devoted she is to the mission of EROS. I can say with confidence: now I have a reliable partner for our projects in Romania.”Anastasia Mazur, Host Entrepreneur, founder of Association My Madeira Island https://mymadeiraisland.com/
