European Rally with Deryn and Libby
From Wales to Switzerland! โ European Rally 2026
On Friday 14th August 2026, myself and Libby Davies, Sennybridge YFC, flew from Bristol to Switzerland to represent Team Wales YFC as two of the five Welsh delegates at the Rural Youth Europe European Rally 2026!
The Rally was held in Landquart, and this year focused on โLeadership in the Age of AIโ. Throughout the week, we took part in a range of workshops, activities and discussions, developing our leadership skills and learning more about how AI can be integrated into our everyday lives.
One of the highlights was our excursion day, where I had the opportunity to visit Agroscope, a Swiss agricultural research centre in Zรผrich, and Swiss Future Farm in Tรคnikon. We then headed off on a homestay, giving us the chance to experience Swiss life and meet local people.
We also had plenty of opportunities to showcase Wales throughout the week, from sharing Welsh food and drink at the international buffet, to performing a Welsh song at the talent show and teaching other participants a few Welsh words!
For me, one of the best parts of the Rally was meeting so many people from across Europe. It was amazing to learn about different cultures, make new friends and share experiences with people from so many different countries. The whole experience has given me new ideas about how I can use AI in my everyday life, as well as memories and friendships that Iโll take home with me.
Before and after the Rally, we also had time to explore more of Switzerland, visiting Zรผrich, Lucerne and Alpnachstad, where we travelled up Mount Pilatus on the worldโs steepest cogwheel railway!
Iโd definitely recommend taking part in a European Rally if you get the opportunity. Itโs an incredible way to travel, learn new skills, experience different cultures, and meet people from across Europe.
If youโd like to learn more about international travel with YFC, Iโm sure either myself or Libby would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have!
The 2027 Wales YFC International Programme is NOW OPEN until 20th September 2026, so get your applications in and you could be heading off on your own international adventure next year!
Deryn Evans โ Builth Wells YFC
