Co-Creators Evaluation Meeting, Barcelona
On 27 September 2025, the MENTBEST research team, led by Arlinda Cerga Pashoja, gathered with co-creators for a dynamic and reflective evaluation meeting in Barcelona, Spain. The afternoon was designed to celebrate contributions, assess impact, and strengthen collaborative ties within the project. The meeting also showcased the participatory action approach coordinated by Arlinda’s team in close collaboration with the MENTBEST consortium, ensuring that co-creators are actively engaged as an integral part of the research process.
The event opened with a warm welcome over coffee and a lively “Human Bingo” icebreaker, setting a relaxed and engaging tone. The bingo was followed by a powerful session titled Reflections on Impact, during which team members shared valuable insights into key aspects of the project. The discussion covered the evaluation, design, and materials developed as part of the Comprehensive Multifaceted Community-Based Intervention (COMBINA) study; the communication and dissemination of the project’s main activities; and the MENTINA app—a digital platform that provides personalised self-management tools and mental health support for individuals at risk of, or experiencing, depressive symptoms and anxiety.
Each presentation was followed by a brief Q&A and a collaborative activity to map the co-creation journey.
After a creative lunch break, participants were invited to engage with the Mini Video Booth, a space designed to capture personal reflections, feedback, and stories from co-creators. These short clips capture personal reflections on what it means to be part of MENTBEST, favourite moments from the journey, hopes for the future, and visions for mental health in their communities.
The co-creators who participated in the Mini Video Booth were Iris Bali Hajdinaj and (representing Greece), Meri Vasha (representing Albania) and Cristina Macías Castellví (representing Spain).
These videos will be featured in upcoming MENTBEST materials and are a powerful reminder of the heart and impact of co-creation.
- Hear what Iris has to say about her favourite moment in the co-creation journey >
- Cristina shares what being a co-creator in MENTBEST means to her >
- Meri reflects on her hopes for the future of mental health in her country and community >
- Stavroula talks about how she will carry this experience forward >
- Iris, Meri, and Stavroula offer advice to anyone considering becoming a co-creator in MENTBEST >
Participants also contributed to a quote wall, completed a digital evaluation survey, and took part in recorded focus group discussions to provide deeper qualitative insights into the collaborative process.
Co-creators who participated in the event included representatives from Greece, Albania, Spain, Ireland and Germany, bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the conversation.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the co-creators for their time, energy, and invaluable contributions. Their commitment and creativity continue to shape the MENTBEST project in meaningful ways.