When we hear about mobility projects, international trips, or Erasmus programmes, we often associate them with youth exchanges, the energy of the youth, something loud, colourful, intensive, where something is constantly going on.
I once took part in a long-term project under EVS (generally, it is a very long story that finally brought me to Poland). And, actually, what is EVS? It’s possible that you don’t even know this abbreviation, because you’re “too young”. EVS, European Voluntary Services, are mobility projects that in 2018 were replaced by ESC (European Solidarity Corps) – this one should sound more familiar.
As a graduate of such a program from years ago, I had the great pleasure to again experience this exceptional atmosphere, again abroad, among wonderful, international people. This vibe of daily classes and workshops, participants’ smiles, beautiful nature, and this natural harmony… Whether you like it or not, you disconnect from your daily routine, and you truly are here and now, in this “different reality.”
I appreciate such experiences a lot. And, as you’ve probably already guessed, this isn’t just for young people. There’s also plenty of room for those who are “a little more mature.”
This time, I could participate in the CBA training (Capacity Building Activity) “Beyond Mobility: Expanding the Impact of Volunteering,” which took place on 16-20.03.2025 in Slovenia, in the beautiful town of Idrija. MCI / Mladinski Centre Idrija turned out even more beautiful. As it is during such trips, an international melting pot: Poland, Bulgaria, Czechia, Finland, Norway, Greece, Armenia, Germany, and France. Diverse experiences and stories, but one thing connects us: we are all somehow connected to volunteering and its development.
And volunteering was the main topic of the whole training; however, not in its basic sense. It was more about what happens after. What stays with a person after a mobility project? How to use that potential further? How to not lose that “something” that activates during those experiences? We talked about phases of volunteering abroad, about its long-term influence, how to support people who return to their countries, and often… they don’t entirely know what to do with themselves. There were many conversations, sometimes very deep ones. A lot of inspiration. And a lot of specifics.
We also worked in smaller groups on our own projects on how to truly increase the influence of these actions. I must admit that it is something I love the most: creating, design thinking, brainstorming with people who really “get it.” Together with Julia from Czechia, we worked on a concept of a conference for EVS and ESC alumni. Honestly, it came out pretty well. Who knows… Maybe one day, we will actually invite you to it.
Slovenia itself impressed me a lot. Nature- obviously. Food, as well. But I think the people impressed me the most. So calm, organised, a little quiet, but extremely kind and sussed. You can feel some natural harmony there.
Within the training, we also visited two organisations in Ljubljana: “Zavod Voluntariat” that takes care of volunteers’ mobility (outgoing and incoming), and “Slovenska filantropija” which acts on a national level and develops the local volunteering systemically. Here’s an interesting fact that really surprised me: in Slovenia, one in ten people is a volunteer. The country is in the top 10 in the European Union in terms of volunteering development. It makes you think. Personally, working daily with migrants in Łódź, I also valued a visit to a day centre for migrants in Ljubljana and discussions with the staff. It’s always good to see how others work, what inspires them, and what their challenges are.
And networking. It’s a slightly trendy word, but the truth is that it’s essential in today’s world. Relations are the key if you want to grow, go further, and act bigger. I return with a head full of ideas, with new contacts, and with a feeling… that it all makes sense.
I am very grateful for this opportunity and the whole experience. The level of organisation, both on the Slovenian and our sending organisation’s sides, was very high. A huge thank you to the LEVEL UP Association for their trust and for allowing us to participate. And to my supervisor and mentor, Kamil Żółkiewicz, for presence, support, and a good word at every stage of this mobility. I felt really taken care of. It is an interesting feeling when, usually, I am the one taking care of others.
If I were to encourage others to such trips, I would put it simply: it’s worth trying. It’s an experience that is hard to compare to anything else. You come out of your routine, your own bubble a little… and, suddenly, you start seeing more. In people, in the world, but also in yourself. I honestly recommend it to everyone. My peers, younger and older people. It really does not matter how old you are or what stage of life you are at. Everyone will find something for themselves. Some go for inspiration, some for people, and some for a moment to pause. And sometimes, you return with something you didn’t even expect. And I guess that is the best part.
Mariia, 34 years old, Training in Idrija, Beyond mobility expanding the impacts of volunteering
