From ETIC_Algarve to Europe: Rita Gonçalves’ journey

Starting a technical course can be the beginning of a journey without limits. Rita Gonçalves, an alumna of ETIC_Algarve, discovered this when she left the Algarve for Prague through the Erasmus+ program, and today she represents Portuguese vocational education and training in Europe. This is her story, an example of the true ETIC_Algarve Effect.

From ETIC_Algarve to Europe, between 2020 and 2023, Rita completed two courses at ETIC_Algarve:

• Technical Course in Graphic Design (20|21)
• Professional Photography Technical Course (21|23)

It was during her training that she discovered not only her talent, but also her transformative power. Over the course of three years, she learned to express herself, developed her confidence, and found a community that encouraged her to grow personally and professionally.

Erasmus+ in Prague: an experience that changed everything

At the end of the Professional Photography Technical Course in 2023, Rita decided to take the next step: she applied for an Erasmus+ internship grant.
She was selected and left for Prague, where she interned for three months at Prague City University.

Rita says, “It was an experience that completely changed my life.”

EuroApprentice: representing the Algarve in Europe

In 2025, with the support of ETIC_Algarve, Rita applied to join the EuroApprentice 2025 Network and was selected to be part of this network, an initiative promoted by the National Erasmus+ Agency.
As the only ambassador for Vocational Education and Training in the Algarve, she participated in the National Meeting and began to develop projects that aim to inspire other young people to experience Erasmus+ with the same intensity.

Between August 28 and 31, Rita will be attending the 3rd edition of Erasmus Campus, which will take place in Marvão. This event is organized by the National Agency Erasmus+ Education and Training, in partnership with entities such as:

• Commemorative Committee for the 50th anniversary of April 25
• Association of Municipalities of São Mamede
• Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre
• Marvão City Council

This year’s focus is Digital Transition, and Rita, as an active participant, will discuss and co-create solutions on:

• Digital literacy and inclusion
• Technological training
• Critical thinking about online information
• Innovation in teaching and learning

✨ The ETIC_Algarve Effect

Rita is an inspiring example of what it means to live the ETIC_Algarve Effect: a metamorphosis that begins with creative training and culminates in an active voice in Europe.
Her journey proves that a Technical Course can open doors far beyond the classroom; it can be the beginning of an authentic, bold, and boundless future.

From Prague to Europe. From graduate to ambassador. Rita is ETIC_Algarve.