Sérgio Santos, a Management Undergraduate student at Universidade Católica Portuguesa joined Transform4Europe (T4EU) Environmental T-Lab Fair - Smart Cities & Regions, a transformative experience that explored the way environment changes influence urban ecosystems and how smart and resilient cities can mobilize applied science and knowledge to adapt effectively.

A truly valuable opportunity abroad, at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, Bulgaria, this was Sérgio’s first contact with the alliance, and more than just educational, “it was transformative”, he highlights.

“This experience allowed me to step outside the boundaries of traditional environmental thinking and engage with real-world problems through collaborative dialogue. The exchange of ideas with participants from diverse backgrounds broadened my understanding, enhanced my critical thinking, and inspired me to apply these insights in my academic and professional journey.” shares.

One unforgettable moment for Sérgio was realizing that his team’s proposal for Lyulin “wasn’t just a simulation or an academic exercise — but a real possibility for change.” “Seeing local authorities nodding with interest and hearing the words “this is feasible” gave me a strong feeling that ideas — when well thought out and rooted in the community — really can travel far and touch lives,” he recalls.

Having had such an amazing experience with T4EU, Sérgio cannot recommend it highly enough to his peers, as it offers “a unique opportunity to step into a truly European learning environment — one that values diversity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world problem-solving.”

According to the Católica Porto Business School student, Transform4Europe, it’s more than a project or a network. “It’s a life-shaping experience, a living laboratory of ideas, cultures and shared purpose.”

Sérgio was truly impressed with the way students, academics and local communities from different backgrounds, nationalities and languages, gather around real challenges, fostering civic engagement.

“I now see T4EU as a bridge — one that connects people across borders with a common goal: to make Europe more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative. Its impact goes beyond education — it empowers future changemakers.”