SUNDAY: the start of a new week, with new friends

Throughout the day, the participans arrived in Oberwesel, gradually filling the hostel with energy and anticipation. Roommates met for the first time, suitcases were unpacked, and colourgroups were announced.

These colourgroups will function as the participants’ international class for the week. They are small, diverse teams in which they will collaborate on workshops, reflect on leadership, and actively develop their skills together. Other than in normal schools’ classes, they are their own leaders!

Shortly before the opening ceremony, the regents formally introduced themselves to the Color Group Facilitators. These facilitators act as the guardians of each colourgroup throughout the week. They support the teams in their tasks, guide reflection moments, and ensure that every participant feels heard and included. Together with the regents, they form the backbone of the learning environment that makes ISLI both structured and personal.

In the evening, everyone gathered in the main hall for the official opening of ISLI. It marked the formal start of the week, but the real connection-building followed right after. Since most participants were still strangers to one another, the regents organised interactive icebreakers within the colourgroups. Laughter quickly replaced nervousness.

What makes this dynamic unique is that the regents themselves once stood in the participants’ shoes. That was exactly one year ago: having experienced ISLI firsthand, they now return to guide workshops and presentations. Close in age, relatable, and genuinely enthusiastic, they bridge the gap between participant and facilitator — setting the tone for a week built on shared growth.