Beyond the Shadows of Routine: My ESC Volunteering Journey

It was 2021, and I found myself at a turning point in my life. I was close to finishing my psychology studies while working at a bank in customer service. At the same time, the world was still dealing with the uncertainties of the ongoing pandemic. Life felt more puzzling than ever, and I was certain that my plans after graduation needed to be more exciting. Staying in my hometown for nearly two years was not part of the vibrant life I had in mind.

One lucky day, I met a friend at my favourite ice cream shop, even though it was chilly in early March. As I enjoyed some pistachio ice cream, I started discussing my life, a common pastime of mine. It was then that my friend said, “I’ve found something that might be perfect for you” and sent me a link to a short-term volunteering project with ESC.

That evening, I couldn’t count how many times I revisited the project description on my computer screen. It talked about people from around the world coming together to work on community projects. The project involved organising local festivals, workshops, and presentations in schools. The best part was that everything, from accommodation to food and travel costs, was covered.

Once the initial excitement settled, I registered on the website and applied for the project. In a day or two, I received a form to provide more information about myself, my experience, and my goals. A week later, I had an interview with the project coordinator. Remarkably, just two weeks after applying, I received an invitation. I was on the verge of embarking on something important and thrilling. For the first time in my life, I was going to a foreign country, and I’d be able to use my English in everyday life.

Back then, I had no idea that this organisation and project would have such a big impact on my life. The organisation was INPRO, located in the greenest city I’d ever seen—Rzeszow. A year later, I returned as a long-term ESC volunteer.

As you can imagine, that first experience was truly amazing. It led to lasting friendships, a significant improvement in my English, a broader network, fulfilling volunteer work, and a path for shaping my future.

Now, let me share my ongoing journey as a full-time INPRO volunteer. Four months have already passed, with eight more to go. We share a cosy apartment in the city centre. I remember when I arrived in July, wearing winter boots in the heat, carrying a cat-shaped pillow named Gela. There was no space left in my 30kg luggage.

The superhero named Kiko from Portugal and my future roomie/ partner in crime, Gaia, helped me with my luggage. Soon, our room became a place for late-night movies and heartfelt conversations.

Our office is a 15-minute walk away. I enjoy this walk, as I’ve always loved walking. Achieving 10,000 steps a day is a must for me.

My main role involves facilitating and working with various participants, including short-term ESC volunteers, VET groups, and training sessions. Our days often start with laughter and icebreakers, setting a positive tone. Even on days without groups, the office remains cheerful.

Our work includes creative tasks like writing this article. At 4 o’clock, we head home. Suddenly, the kitchen transforms into a bustling street in Mumbai, chaotic and crowded. Everyone is eager to share their culinary delights, and I’ve tasted delicacies from sunny Tunisia, the cuisine of faraway Portugal, even the flavours of distant Mexico, and, of course, every variation of pasta – everyone’s favourite. Given the well-known extent of my cooking abilities, no one even dares to suggest, “Mariami, give us a taste of Georgian cuisine.”

Time has passed quickly, and there’s much more I could share about my volunteering year, but for now, I’ll stop here. As I recently told my mom, ESC volunteering has been a time I’ll always cherish. It’s been the best year of my life without a doubt.

Now, dear reader, the opportunity is yours. Don’t let it slip away. Just as Plato’s men saw the vibrant colours of the world when they stopped merely watching shadows in a cave, you too can embark on your unforgettable journey and experience the richness of life beyond your comfort zone.