“Hallo”, my name is Emma and I have had the exciting opportunity to volunteer with the ESC programme at IZUM. Working with children from a very young age up to teenagers has taught me so much and has helped me grow immensely as a person. I have learnt that communication and connection are possible even without a common language and how open and trusting people, especially children, can be. The youngest children at the ABC school, where I worked the most, inspired me with their creativity, openness, curiosity and free spirit. They have grown very close to my heart through joint games, German cafe lessons, activities and excursions.
In other areas of IZUM, I also had the opportunity to take part in projects, events and summer camps, exchange ideas with people and engage in dialogue. Together with my fellow volunteer, I was able to lead a self-written project about environmental protection and recycling in the Youth Club, as well as other events such as a German Cultural Evening. Personally, I have learnt so much from my time here that I couldn't possibly list it all. My 10 months in Estonia were an experience full of lessons, about working with people, children in particular and about myself. I have grown through my tasks, challenges and experiences and have got to know myself better. I have learnt how to be independent and responsible, how to take on challenges and solve problems more courageously. Stepping on the plane to Estonia was the bravest step I have ever taken in my life and it was just the beginning of a journey on which I have become more self-confident and courageous. I learnt to love Estonia with its beautiful nature, rich culture, dances and songs and I already miss it.
I thank everyone who has made my time here what it has been: full of laughs, heartfelt hugs, advice and wisdom, support and encouragement to grow. I have found a second home and loving friends that I hold close to my heart. I wish I had enough arms to hug you all.
See you the next time I come to Estonia. Bis bald!
In other areas of IZUM, I also had the opportunity to take part in projects, events and summer camps, exchange ideas with people and engage in dialogue. Together with my fellow volunteer, I was able to lead a self-written project about environmental protection and recycling in the Youth Club, as well as other events such as a German Cultural Evening. Personally, I have learnt so much from my time here that I couldn't possibly list it all. My 10 months in Estonia were an experience full of lessons, about working with people, children in particular and about myself. I have grown through my tasks, challenges and experiences and have got to know myself better. I have learnt how to be independent and responsible, how to take on challenges and solve problems more courageously. Stepping on the plane to Estonia was the bravest step I have ever taken in my life and it was just the beginning of a journey on which I have become more self-confident and courageous. I learnt to love Estonia with its beautiful nature, rich culture, dances and songs and I already miss it.
I thank everyone who has made my time here what it has been: full of laughs, heartfelt hugs, advice and wisdom, support and encouragement to grow. I have found a second home and loving friends that I hold close to my heart. I wish I had enough arms to hug you all.
See you the next time I come to Estonia. Bis bald!
A big thanks to our partner NGO Association of Estonian Open Youth Centres for coordinating this project.
