This experience has been valuable to me both personally and professionally.
After completing the project, I certainly took away many new acquaintances, which I consider to be an extremely valuable and important aspect of this experience. I also learned to recognize different levels of activists’ engagement and developed my teamwork skills.
Regarding the organization by LEVEL UP – everything went smoothly. Unfortunately, I have quite a few comments about the hosting organization. I felt there was constant chaos, a lack of timeliness in carrying out activities, the project programme was not shared with participants beforehand, and after the project our questions about reimbursements were left unanswered.
Despite these difficulties, I am very grateful for the opportunity to meet inspiring people from other countries who are engaged in similar activities. This experience has been valuable to me both personally and professionally.
I recommend to participate in non-formal education mobility because it is an opportunity to get to know yourself and others better, while at the same time stepping out of your comfort zone into a space that enables learning.
Natalia, 23 years old, YouthARTiculate, Vrnjačka Banja, SERBIA
During the project there were activities every day. The schedule wasn’t too tight so there was plenty of time to integrate and spend time with other participants.
I started my project in Poland with an online meeting with Marek, who was very helpful and answered all my questions about the project. Then I flew to Serbia and arrived at the project destination. I was surprised that the place we went to was a city known for its spas and relaxation spots.
During the project there were activities every day. The schedule wasn’t too tight so there was plenty of time to integrate and spend time with other participants. The food was very tasty – there was always a table full of different dishes to choose from. I really enjoyed the workshops because they focused on a topic that truly interested me. I learned a lot of fascinating things about artists, art and ways to use art as a tool for activism. I met wonderful people from many countries. By coincidence I met some girls from Malta – the same place where I’m going for my internship, so we’ll have a chance to meet again.
In Serbia everyone was very kind. As a tourist I never had any trouble getting help from strangers on the street. I was surprised to find out how similar the Serbian language is to Polish. The Serbian organizers didn’t really socialize with us outside of the workshops, even though they were around our age – they preferred to spend time together in their own group. I didn’t experience any barriers that made it difficult for me to take part in the project. As for a funny situation – together with some girls I met during the project we went to the thermal baths and later to the bumper cars. Even though we were the only adults there without children, we had a fantastic time!
I am very happy with the support I received from the LEVEL UP Organization. Marek was always available whenever I needed any help.
I would definitely encourage others to take part in international projects or volunteering abroad. Such experiences allow you to step out of your comfort zone, meet inspiring people from different cultures and gain new perspectives on the world. You learn not only about the project topic but also a lot about yourself: how you adapt, communicate and work in a multicultural environment.
It’s an amazing opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. You improve your language skills, build confidence and develop empathy and teamwork. I would absolutely recommend such trips to my colleagues. It’s a unique adventure that gives you unforgettable memories, friendships and valuable experiences that can’t be gained in a classroom or office.
Katarzyna, 23 years old, YouthARTiculate, Vrnjačka Banja, SERBIA
