Camilla's experience in Slovakia

My three-week Team Volunteering experience in Trnava was—so to speak—short but very intense, and I loved every single second of it!

The aim of the project run by my hosting organization, Youth for Equality, was to spread information and raise awareness about a healthy lifestyle, encouraging people to take care of their physical and mental health. How did we do it? In many different ways! From taking part in local festivals to creating workshops for schools, as well as organizing yoga, Zumba, and breakdance classes.

Every day was full of activities and new, diverse emotions. I won’t deny that I faced some small challenges along the way, but nothing insurmountable—especially in a group project, where I always felt supported. The coordinators of the hosting organization welcomed me and nine other participants, making us feel like part of one big family.

I am grateful to have found great teammates and adventure companions among the other participants, where cultural and personal differences were never a source of conflict, but rather of enrichment and dialogue. We shared happiness and fears, spent joyful moments and tough days together, celebrated achievements, ate traditional food, cried a little, and laughed a lot.

In my free time, I had the chance to explore the country that hosted me, and I discovered true hidden gems. Slovakia’s lush and fascinating nature has left an unforgettable mark on me.

I feel that I returned home enriched: new personal awareness, new friends, and new memories to treasure. One piece of advice I would give to anyone about to leave for a volunteering experience?

Keep an open mind and let yourself be surprised!

Camilla