The EESTEC spirit is the essence of being an EESTECer, encompassing personal and professional growth, opportunities for travel, and deep social connections. It represents something different for every individual, as each member brings their unique experiences, expectations, and motivations to the Association. However, at its core, it is about fostering a sense of community, trust, and shared enthusiasm, bringing members together from all corners of Europe to learn, grow, and create unforgettable memories.
More than just an abstract concept, the EESTEC spirit is something that comes alive during EESTEC events. These gatherings allow members to meet like-minded individuals, broaden their horizons, and celebrate EESTEC traditions. It is in these shared moments of laughter, collaboration, and cultural exchange that the EESTEC spirit truly flourishes, strengthening the bonds between members and reinforcing the Association’s core values.
An annual event where EESTECers from across Europe gather at the same time in their respective cities to engage in EESTEC-related activities. This hour is a celebration of unity, where members take part in fun and engaging activities such as dancing, performances, and interactive challenges. The moments are often captured and shared on social media, allowing the entire network to experience the EESTEC spirit together, no matter where they are.
The City Rally is a group-based activity that takes place during international EESTEC events. Participants, guided by local EESTEC members, navigate through the host city while completing various tasks and challenges. This tradition is designed to combine cultural discovery, team-building, and interactive fun, making it a memorable experience for both newcomers and seasoned EESTECers alike.
A staple of every international EESTEC event, International Night is an evening dedicated to cultural exchange. Each participating branch sets up a counter with traditional food, drinks, and cultural items from their home country. The night starts with tasting and learning about different cultures but quickly turns into a festive celebration with music, dancing, and EESTEC songs. Participants often wear red EESTEC T-shirts, further enhancing the sense of unity and belonging.
One of the most cherished traditions in EESTEC is the T-shirt exchange, where members trade EESTEC shirts from different branches. This simple yet meaningful exchange serves as a symbol of friendship and unity, allowing members to take home a unique souvenir from the event while forming deeper connections with fellow participants.
Inspired by traditional war dances, the Haka is an energizer frequently performed during EESTEC events. Members chant specific phrases while executing synchronized dance moves, creating a powerful sense of unity and excitement. The Haka is often used to motivate participants, boost team spirit, and kick off events with high energy.
A well-loved EESTEC tradition, this energizer is based on Slovenian singer Magnifico’s song. Participants enthusiastically dance and sing along, further fostering a sense of community and celebration. It is one of the signature activities that bring people together and ensure that every EESTEC event is filled with energy and fun.
At the start of every EESTEC event, ice-breaking games are organized to help participants overcome shyness, interact with new people, and build friendships. These games are crucial in setting the tone for the event, ensuring that attendees feel comfortable and engaged from the very beginning.
A fun and competitive tradition, the Flag Challenge involves members attempting to "steal" the flags of other Local Committees when they are openly displayed. If a flag is successfully taken, the rightful owners must perform specific challenges or tasks to reclaim it. The Flag Challenge is a great way to promote friendly rivalry while reinforcing the bonds between different committees across Europe.
These traditions and events form the heartbeat of EESTEC, bringing members together through shared experiences and deep-rooted customs. The EESTEC spirit is something that grows stronger with every event, every new connection, and every unforgettable moment shared among its members. It is this spirit that unites EESTECers across Europe, making the Association not just an organization, but a true family.