In May, I began my volunteering placement at a youth center in Bremen, Germany. From the moment I arrived, I was ready for the new experiences that lay ahead. The youth center has been an inviting space from the start. It’s always full of energy, with young people from diverse cultural backgrounds coming by to play games, chat, participate in sports, or seek guidance. Within the first few weeks, I realized how open the environment was to my own ideas.
There’s also a wide variety of activities that keep me active and engaged. Early on, we went on a camping trip to the Black Forest, which was an amazing opportunity to bond with the group while enjoying the outdoors. I’ve also participated in a rides park visit and strawberry picking, both of which were fun and lighthearted ways to get involved. Aside from these, we have movie nights, cooking activities, and sports tournaments at the center, which help to bring everyone together and create a real sense of community.
Of course, the experience wouldn’t be the same without the support of my colleagues. They’ve been more than just coworkers; they’ve become friends who make life in a new country easier to navigate. German bureaucracy can be tricky, but they’ve always been there to help me understand the paperwork and processes, making the transition smoother than it could have been.
Although I came in with basic German language skills, being surrounded by native speakers has given me the chance to practice every day in real-life situations. My colleagues and the youth are patient and willing to help, which has really boosted my confidence in speaking German. Over time, I’ve noticed how much I’ve improved, and that’s something I’m especially proud of.
One of the major highlights of my experience so far was the on-arrival training with NaturKultur, the organization hosting me through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). It took place on a farm, surrounded by animals, which made the atmosphere both unique and relaxing. It was also a great bonding experience with other volunteers from different countries, and it gave me a better understanding of the program and the values behind it. The week we spent together really helped me feel more connected to the broader Bremen community.
I also had the opportunity to spend a week in Hamburg for my first ESC seminar. This seminar was an important part of the experience, as it went into more depth about our rights, responsibilities, and the opportunities available to us during our placements. Being in Hamburg wasn’t just about learning, though—it was also a time to build new friendships with other volunteers. The connections I made there continue to be a valuable part of my experience, as we share stories and support one another in our placements.
Reflecting on my time in Bremen so far, I’ve found that this placement has offered exactly what I was looking for. It’s given me the chance to stay active, try new things, and improve my language skills while being part of a welcoming and supportive community. I’m looking forward to what the rest of my time here will bring and the experiences and challenges that still lie ahead.
