My name is Angeline Nyawira Mithayo, I come from Kenya, the East of Africa.
My arrival to Italy was extremely exciting, not only because this was my first time to visit, but because I had the chance to volunteer in a field that would involve my long-term career. I arrived on July and was met by my mentor Mattia at the station. He showed me the location of the organization and the place that I would be staying in the city centre. I remember being very happy because our house was in the middle of the centre, most places were easily accessible and the office was 2 minutes away.
I had the chance to volunteer for the REC project where I would be involved for one year. The project involves experimental film making in relation to violence prevention, with other young people from different parts of the world. We are able to express our films in different artistic ways, for example photographic experimentation, land art, the creation of masks.
Palermo is an exciting city, too exciting, it makes you understand why people never want to leave. There are people from all cultures in the world, so many historical sites, tourists, concerts, parties, different foods and multiple restaurants. The streets are always full of people, especially in the evenings and weekends, so many activities to join.
I got to learn a lot about Italy first hand, doing away with the theory that I read about in books and the internet. I understood the Italian way of life and mannerisms. Coming from a different continent, I got the chance to attend classes on the civic life of Italy where I learnt about the economic, political and social attributes of Italy.
I did not know what to expect when I met my housemates from different cultures, however, after a few questions on my journey from Kenya to Italy, and many discussions on facts about Africa and Europe, we all became very good friends. All weekends were magical as we attended one party to another and explored Italy together. We also had so many meaningful conversations that changed my perspective of life in a very positive way.
At the office, I was met with a lot of warmth and kindness from some of my colleagues, it made me feel comfortable being there. I have also collaborated in different projects. My first days in the REC workshops were met by a lot of confusion but as time went by, it became a very fulfilling experience to be a part of.
I got to teach young people a lot about film, and I also learnt a lot from them as well. This has challenged me to work harder towards my abilities and talents, and also prepared me to be the director I always wanted to be when I finally leave for Los Angeles, Hollywood.
Angeline Nyawira Mithayo
EVS volunteer within the Erasmus + project “REC”
Do you want to learn more about Angie’s EVS experience and the REC project?
- Watch Angie’s video here.
- For REC visit: www.rec-project.eu/
What is EVS?
EVS (European Voluntary Service) is an international volunteer program funded by the European Commission. It enables all young people legally resident in Europe, aged between 18 and 30 years, to carry out an international volunteer service in an organization or in a public body in Europe, Africa, Asia or South America for a period ranging from 2 to 12 months. Do you want to know more?
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