Hello everyone!
I’m Andriana, two months ago I came to Palermo, Italy for a short-term volunteer project of the European Solidarity Corps.
While volunteering, I had the opportunity to work with children, teaching them English and just having fun with them. Together with colleagues, we created activities for children, helped in the development of those who need it. In addition, the work was carried out in various local centers with vulnerable population groups, which added even more diverse impressions and experiences.
Thanks to this project, I discovered my new qualities, which I didn’t pay attention to before. I developed here the most important personal skills that I will need in the future, namely: communication, patience, openness to the world and new opportunities and realized that helping people without expecting anything in return really improves my mental health.
Of course, at first it was difficult to adapt to the new conditions, to the fact that everything around is not the way I am used to, everything is radically different, and it took time to immerse myself in this Sicilian crazy atmosphere and to some extent chaotic. There were also difficulties with communication in public places, where not everyone knows English. But in fact, people there are friendly and will gladly help even if you communicate in different languages.
Therefore, I am extremely happy that I had the opportunity to participate in such a multifaceted project, because there I received invaluable experience, learning new skills, culture and ways of life, and this is undoubtedly a life-changing experience!
Therefore, guys, don’t hesitate, but use all the opportunities that life gives you. In fact, you are much stronger than you think. You will cope with everything and be proud of yourself for taking a risk and getting the brightest emotions of life!
Andriana Shypka
ESC volunteer – Sharing solidarity
Youth Unit
