2026 IN-PERSON ADVANCED LEARNING SEMINAR October 7-10, Albania
(Travel days Oct 6 & Oct-11)
A focused gathering for Empowerment Self-Defence (ESD) instructors to learn, practice, reflect, and connect across borders.
The seminar brings together 30 ESD instructors from across Europe for four intensive days of advanced learning and peer exchange.
Hosted by ESD Europe in partnership with ESD Albania.
EVERY COMMUNITY DESERVES EMPOWERMENT SELF-DEFENCE
Sponsor a grassroots leader. Empower a whole community.
In order to make this seminar available to instructors who cannot afford attending, ESD Europe has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help raise financial support for them.
We would appreciate your support and shares!
Who it’s for
This seminar is for Empowerment Self Defense Instructors and aligned
practitioners who want to deepen advanced practice, reflect with peers, and stay connected to a wider community across Europe.
Designed to support instructors working with:
Young people, survivors, displaced communities, marginalized communities, and women — while keeping the work grounded, effective, and sustainable.
Why attend
Four intensive days to connect, grow, exchange best practices, and recharge — with people who understand the realities and responsibilities of ESD instruction.
Leave with practical next steps — new skills and teaching ideas you can use immediately. Renew your energy — step out of daily demands and return with clarity and motivation. Strengthen your network — build relationships that continue well beyond the seminar.
Community-focused — You’ll learn alongside peers facing similar challenges, and you’ll leave with shared tools, language, and support.
What participants will learn
You’ll explore advanced ESD practice through a mix of training, guided reflection, and exchange with international instructors.
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Advanced trauma-informed teaching techniques
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Scenario design and real-life application
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Working with youth, survivors, and vulnerable populations
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Leadership, mentorship, and professional development
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Community building across borders
Seminar cost and support
The seminar fee covers five nights of accommodation, meals (breakfast and lunch), training materials, and the full program.
Participant fee — €600.
For many instructors, the cost can be difficult to manage due to low-paid or volunteer work and personal circumstances.
Support may be available — Scholarships or financial support may be available to help instructors attend. Please reach out to discuss options.
Next Step
Interested in participating or learning more about the seminar? We’d love to hear from you.
If you want to become a speaker in the seminar, please contact us before August 10th.
Registration for participants before September 15th
Get in touch
Email gentiana@esdeurope.org
We look forward to welcoming you to Albania for four days of shared learning, practice, and community.