Global Village: The Short-Term ESC Volunteering We Were Waiting For

Hello! My name is Mariam, and as a long-term volunteer in Rzeszów, I had the unique opportunity to assist short-term volunteers during the Global Village event organised by INPRO in various public schools. This exciting event brought together volunteers from around the world, each eager to share their culture and traditions with local students. With participants from Zimbabwe, Cyprus, France, Catalonia, Greece, Kazakhstan, and Armenia, Nigeria, the USA the day was filled with excitement and learning.

Welcoming a World of Cultures

I helped the short-term volunteers get ready for their presentations. The room was full of excitement as students came in, eager to explore different cultures. Each booth shared a special story, showing the unique traditions and customs from the volunteers’ home countries.

One of the standout moments was when the French volunteer presented French perfumes. It was fascinating to see how the students were captivated by the scents and stories behind each fragrance. The volunteer shared insights into the art of perfume-making, and the students were eager to learn more about France’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering Kazakh Traditions

Another memorable booth was run by a participant from Kazakhstan, who showcased traditional Kazakh jewellery. As I assisted her, I could see the students’ eyes widen in amazement at the intricate designs and the stories associated with each piece. It was wonderful to facilitate discussions between the Kazakh volunteer and the students, who were eager to understand the cultural significance of the jewellery.

Building Bridges of Understanding

The Global Village event was more than just a showcase of cultures; it was an opportunity to build bridges of understanding between different communities. Throughout the day, I witnessed students asking questions, participating in cultural activities, and learning about the unique traditions of each country represented. The energy in the room was electric as students interacted with the volunteers, exchanging ideas and experiences.

In one corner, students were attempting to learn traditional dances from the Greek volunteer, while in another they were trying out some basic phrases in Spanish from the Catalan participant. It was heartwarming to see their genuine interest in the stories shared by the volunteers and their willingness to immerse themselves in new experiences. The teachers played a pivotal role in facilitating these interactions, guiding discussions, and ensuring that the students felt comfortable expressing their curiosity.

As a long-term volunteer, I felt a deep sense of fulfilment in supporting my fellow volunteers and facilitating these connections. Events like the Global Village not only enrich the lives of participants but also foster a sense of global citizenship among local students. It’s crucial to nurture this understanding in an increasingly interconnected world, where empathy and respect for diversity are essential.

Looking to the Future

Reflecting on the day, I am grateful for the opportunity to play a role in such a meaningful event. The Global Village was a celebration of our differences, yet it also highlighted our commonalities as human beings. I hope to see more initiatives like this that encourage cultural exchange and appreciation. By celebrating our diverse backgrounds, we can foster understanding, respect, and unity in our communities.

Together, we can continue to learn from one another, challenge stereotypes, and build a brighter future for all. I am excited to be part of this ongoing journey, and I look forward to future opportunities to connect with others and share the beauty of our cultures.