Everybody's heard of culture shock right? It's when you travel around the world, usually in some other country and suddenly visit a place, where the rules, customs and maybe even the standard behavior isn't what you're used to. It seems like a different planet. People may look at you funny or they scorn you for doing something odd. Also you might have a prejudice about its community and this can certainly influence your actions, which can result in a misunderstanding between you and them.
People really like generalizing, so if there's a stereotype going around about a certain culture, saying that it's unclean, unintelligent, lower standards, it's only through our inexperienced eyes and ears, that we process this information as being real, without really experiencing the culture itself in real life, being really around these people or making some good research. So the best thing you can do is to just pack your bags and go somewhere. If you're under 31, an ESC project is a great way to start!
So you apply for a project and come to a foreign country. Sometimes it is hard to make friends in this environment, because the people you want to make contact with are maybe more introverted or extroverted than you or they have a different historical background, making them more defensive and careful about foreign people. As a guest in this new place, you have to be very respectful and maybe follow some new rules. You really don't want to be an outcast. So maybe try to think differently, talk to people, get to know them. Maybe you won't make friends the first day, but slowly with conversations, interactions and maybe games you will get to know them for being the most wonderful people, just a little different than what you're used to. Sometimes it can be hard to grasp this, but why not take on a little challenge. It will definitely pay off in the end. Even if you won't have the best time there, you will certainly learn some new things and become stronger in the end!
I was doing this ESC project in Greece, where we had to clean beaches and create artworks from trash. Besides us Europeans, there were also some people from the Arab world. I had the pleasure of sharing my tent with a person from Jordan. To be totally honest, it was quite a challenge for me. Living very close with a person from a different culture, which I haven't experienced before, is not something to be taken lightly. We had our issues for sure, he was at times too noisy, his demeanor different and the way he spoke, may have seemed very direct and violent. And there were times, when we also had conflicts, so at one point I proposed to have a real conversation with him. And we shared our emotions with each other. He also said that my behavior is not usual to him. So we both experienced culture shock in the end.We often forget about others and how they are feeling, focusing too much on ourselves and our culture shock and in the process miss, that other people might also be having culture shocks about us. As civilized citizens of today's world, we must have the responsibility to understand that when we come to contact with people from different cultures or when they visit our country, they might also be having a difficult experience, so it's our duty as good citizens, to be kind and accepting to them and understand their emotions, try to make them feel more at home :).
Text a fotka: Fedja Saksida
Fedja je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v organizácii Cirkuskus pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený Európskou komisiou z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
Volunteering abroad is considered as an opportunity to help communities, bring you experience and ideas, make a solidarity and difference. However, it’s much more than that. It’s a two-way exchange where volunteers not only offer their skills and time but also gain valuable experiences, perspectives and cultural understanding in return. As an ESC volunteer in Bratislava, I have realized that the true essence of volunteering lies in the balance between giving and getting/learning.
We as the volunteers work in youth centers, social hubs, kindergartens or schools. Working with them, organizing events, teaching languages or helping with social projects, volunteers contribute in meaningful ways. Through these efforts, they empower individuals, foster positive change and help bridge cultural gaps. It makes huge diversity. At the same time, volunteers must be willing to engage with their host communities, understand local needs and environment and adapt their efforts to create a real impact.
Living in a foreign country shows you the different traditions, values and ways of life. Simple things, like celebrating local holidays, trying traditional food, following a traditional life-style of learning the language, become powerful lessons in cultural exchange. These experiences not only enrich your knowledge but also help you to widen your mindset and connect with locals on a deeper level. For example, I had the opportunity to learn basic Slovak that helped me to communicate with locals in a better way and this is kind of respectfulness as well, I tried super delicious traditional food, got into touch with some traditions and festivals. I can say that Christmas vibes, traditions, celebrations are amazing here. Christmas markets are really “must see and feel” and you will enjoy it super well for sure! Maybe all these cultural exchanges and the process is not easy-going, language barriers, unfamiliar customs and different social norms can make the adaptation process challenging. However, these obstacles are part of the learning experience. Overcoming them builds resilience, flexibility and open-mindedness - qualities that are valuable beyond the volunteering experience.
Moreover, the impact of cultural exchange does not end when the volunteer period ends. Volunteers share their cultural aspects with the locals too, and after the project, they bring their experiences back home, sharing new perspectives with their communities and inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones. Volunteering abroad is more than just a process – it is an opportunity for cultural exchange, personal growth and global connection. By both giving and receiving, volunteers and host communities create a shared experience that enriches all participants.
Text a fotka: Zurabi Sanadze
Zura je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v organizácii Mládež ulice pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený Európskou komisiou z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
Volunteering is often seen as a way to give back, but for me, it has also been about personal growth. Over the past few months, I have spent time volunteering at a kindergarten in Bratislava, and the experience has changed me in ways I never expected. Through patience, time management, and creativity, I have developed skills that have positively impacted both my personal and professional life for the future.
Learning Patience and Adaptability
One of the biggest lessons I learned was patience. Young children have endless energy, rapid mood shifts, and constant needs. At first, it was overwhelming, but over time, I learned to stay calm and be fully present. Patience isn’t just about waiting—it’s about understanding and adapting, a skill that has helped me in everyday life. It goes hand in hand with endurance, which is also a skill that was hard to learn but now is a part of my daily life.
Mastering Time Management
I thought I was good at managing time, but the kindergarten experience refined this skill. With so much happening at once, I had to prioritize effectively:
What or who needs immediate attention?
What can wait?
What can i bring in today?
Focusing on what truly mattered made me more efficient and balanced. Because with all these new challenges and new problems, upcoming everyday it can be very overwhelming. With this I also learned the importance of taking short breaks to recharge.
Rediscovering Creativity
Children see the world with endless imagination. I initially thought I was there to teach, but they taught me just as much. Watching their creativity inspired me to think differently and solve problems with an open mind. I realized creativity isn’t just about art—it’s about how we approach and see life.
Reassessing What Truly Matters
Seeing kids find joy in simple things—playing outside, reading a book, laughing—made me reflect on my own choices. I started prioritizing meaningful experiences over distractions, spending more time with loved ones, finding things that spark joy for me and be less on technology. It was a small but powerful shift.
A Journey of Growth
Volunteering at the kindergarten has been more than just an act of service—it’s been a journey of self-discovery. I have grown more patient, improved my time management, and embraced creativity. Most importantly, I have learned to appreciate the small moments that make life meaningful. Growth doesn’t always come from big achievements. Sometimes, it happens in quiet moments—helping a child, sharing laughter, or realizing what truly matters. If you have the chance to volunteer, take it. You might be surprised by how much you learn—not just about others, but about yourself.
Text a fotka: Lucia Bereta
Lucia je dobrovoľníčkou programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v detskom centre Hlavička pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
What is volunteering ?
Volunteering refers to a voluntary and unpaid commitment by an individual who chooses to dedicate part of their time and energy to a cause, organization, or project, usually for social, humanitarian, or environmental purposes. Volunteers often engage in activities aimed at helping others, supporting community initiatives, or promoting collective values, without expecting financial compensation. Volunteering can take various forms, from assisting people in need to participating in international solidarity projects, as well as activities within local associations.
What is ESC ?
The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is an initiative launched by the European Union to encourage young people to engage in volunteering and solidarity activities across Europe. Its main goal is to provide opportunities for young people (aged 18 to 30) to contribute to society by participating in projects that address social, environmental, and community challenges. The program supports both voluntary and paid positions in areas such as education, health, social services, culture, and environmental protection.Participants in the ESC gain valuable experience, develop personal and professional skills, and promote social cohesion within European communities. The program is designed to create positive impacts, both for the volunteers and for the communities they serve, while strengthening the sense The European Solidarity Corps is part of the EU's broader efforts to empower youth and foster cross-border cooperation.
"Sustainable Impact of European Volunteering: Against Voluntourism"
European volunteering has a real impact on local populations because it is based on long-term solidarity projects, carried out in collaboration with the communities themselves. Unlike voluntourism, which involves short-term volunteering experiences often motivated by tourism aspects and where the impact on local communities can be limited, European volunteering aims to address concrete and sustainable needs. Volunteers work on projects that support local initiatives, respecting the priorities of the residents and fostering genuine cooperation. This approach helps build strong connections, strengthen local capacities, and promote positive change that goes beyond just temporary intervention.
What about my experience ?
I have been volunteering in Slovakia for 5 months now, and so far it has been a great and meaningful experiment. I always wanted to travel and to live in another country, but I didn’t want to do it for touristic reasons. Thanks to ESC program I am learning and discovering a new culture by being actively involved into a local organisation in Bratislava. Meeting people here has been very enriching in many ways, that I can benefit in my personal and professional life.
In conclusion, ethical volunteering, particularly through initiatives like the European Solidarity Corps, offers a valuable opportunity for young people to make a tangible difference in communities across Europe. By focusing on long-term, community-driven projects, volunteers can help address real social and environmental challenges, fostering sustainable change. Unlike voluntourism, which often prioritizes personal gain over meaningful impact, ESC ensures that volunteering is rooted in cooperation, respect for local needs, and mutual growth. For those seeking to travel and experience new cultures in a truly impactful way, engaging in ethical volunteering is a powerful way to contribute to society while gaining invaluable life and professional experiences. As we move forward, it is essential to continue promoting volunteering that genuinely empowers both the volunteer and the community they serve, making a lasting difference in the world.
Text a fotka: Zoe Guicquero
Zoe je dobrovoľníčkou programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte
v organizácii Cirkuskus pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený Európskou úniou.
Volunteering can be one of the most fulfilling things you do. Giving your time and energy to help others is a wonderful way to make a difference. This September, I started volunteering at a kindergarten, and it has been such a rewarding experience. The children’s laughter, curiosity, and endless energy brighten my days. But volunteering also comes with challenges, and I’ve learned how important it is to take care of myself to avoid burnout.
Volunteer burnout happens when the excitement and energy you once felt start to disappear, replaced by tiredness or frustration. It’s often the result of taking on too much or not having enough support. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by something you love doing, you might know what I mean. It’s important to notice the signs early and find ways to stop it before it gets worse.
For me, it started with small things. Some days I felt extra tired, even when I’d slept well. Planning activities, or finding new songs for the kids, something I usually loved, felt harder. Sometimes, I even wondered if what I was doing really mattered. It felt strange because I care so much about the work, but those feelings were hard to ignore.
What really helped was taking a step back and setting some boundaries. At first, I wanted to help with everything and do as much as possible. But I’ve learned it’s okay to say no and focus on tasks I enjoy and can handle. Knowing my limits has made a big difference. So I focused more on the kids again. This reminded me why I started volunteering in the first place.
Talking to the staff and other volunteers has also been so encouraging. Sharing experiences and celebrating little victories together keeps me motivated. Even simple moments, like a child’s smile or a thank-you from a teacher, make the effort feel worthwhile. Taking care of myself outside of volunteering has been just as important. Spending time with friends, relaxing, or enjoying hobbies helps me recharge. I’ve realized that volunteering isn’t
about giving so much that you have nothing left. It’s about doing what you can while looking after yourself. Eating well, staying active, and getting enough sleep all help. If I’m feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to step back and take a break.
Burnout doesn’t have to take over your volunteer experience. By noticing the signs, setting limits, and leaning on your community, you can keep the spark alive. In just a few months, volunteering has taught me so much about patience, joy, and balance.
If you’ve ever felt the weight of burnout, know that you’re not alone. Take a moment to pause, reflect, and remember: you’re making a difference, and that’s something to be proud of.
Links I worked with:
"Burnout Among Volunteers and Social Workers," LearnDoGrow.
Link
"How to Recognize and Avoid Volunteer Burnout," VolunteerMatch.
Link
"Combatting Volunteer Burnout Effectively," Neurolaunch.
Link
"How to Address Volunteer Burnout," HogoNext.
Link
"Recognize and Avoid Volunteer Burnout," Giving Compass.
Link
Text a fotka: Lucia Bereta
Lucia je dobrovoľníčkou programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v detskom centre Hlavička pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
Everyone has dreams, especially when you are a young person you think a lot about your future, make your goals and very naturally you start dreaming about amazing future plans. Would you like to live independently? Would you like to start making your dreams and goals come true? Would you like to widen your minds, meet new people, travel to wonderful countries, experiencing adventures, finding what you want or just what makes you happy? Then here you are – BE A VOLUNTEER. Everyone can try it and get something valuable from this experience.
It was a cloudy evening last spring, I was just scrolling through TikTok and drinking coffee. At the same time, I realized that I needed something unlike my everyday routine and work, I was thinking about my goals and dreams. I have already had some experience, skills and nice life-memories but I was desiring more and more. That was the impulse for me to start looking for ESC project.
Being a volunteer abroad may look challenging for you, in the beginning it was the same for me too. If you want to follow your dreamy goals you need to go out of your comfort zone and try new things. Aaaaaand YES! – volunteering will definitely be a new experience for you. You can get not only personal growth, but also professional development and a huge opportunity to make your and others’ life valuable as well. You can reach self-development, gain useful skills and bring your strengths, ideas and experiences to your volunteering work too.
Maybe while you are reading this blog now, you are thinking how it is possible to gain all of the above-mentioned benefits but just look at these possibilities – you will get used to living independently, face the challenges and make them positive for you, meet new people from diverse backgrounds, if you love travelling you can explore new cities and even countries too, cool chances to find amazing adventures, trying new things at your work and improve the skills that you already have… So, it sounds really nice, right? All of it is part of volunteering, maybe everything mentioned is not applealing for you but you have the opportunity to try and see what truly works for you.
From my experience I can tell you that ESC volunteering is the period when you can find your real self, explore your real ego, will, desires, goals and dreams and it is the perfect time to catch it and follow your path.
Wait, wait, still thinking?! Come on! Search European Solidarity Corps and become a volunteer. Step up to magical adventures. Keep in your mind that sometimes you may miss your friends, maybe family, your work or school – your past and home, yes. Sometimes I miss it but I always try to keep myself focused on the present and where I am at this moment. Enjoying my life, living a cool life, getting as much as many benefits from my volunteering time.
For example, I already met other volunteers from different countries and made new friends. That is really good because those are your type of people whom you like spending time with and having fun. I have already learned quite many things at my "work" (informal club for kids) – one of the funny things is that now I know how to play billiard, how to make dream-catchers and how to use visual expression when we play board games in Slovak 😊 but of course I have already grew personally on different levels. One of my goals was to socialize more and I can say that I am more social person now and I am getting better and better in communication. Also, I already realized very well that when I have a hard time, facing some challenges, I should consider it only as a phase and I can just go through it while further following my goals and dreams. Sometimes I think it would be great if I tried volunteering 5-6 years earlier. However, actually it does not really matter because I truly believe that things happen at a time when they are suppossed to happen for everyone, when it is the proper time to experience them. So, if you are reading this now maybe it is the right time for you to apply for volunteering. Hmmm? Have you already started packing your stuff?! Great! Amazing times are ahead!
Text a fotka: Zurabi Sanadze
Zura je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v organizácii Mládež ulice pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
Since my volunteer project is coming to an end, I have decided to write about my progress of learning the Slovak language, as well as, my most used Slovak words. These words might not be used as often outside of the circus but they turned out to be one of my most important ones.
I started learning Slovak at the start of my volunteering project with the help of a mentor using the Križom Kražom book. I was meeting with the mentor every week for 2 hours for 3 months to learn the basics of Slovak. Afterwards, I was learning Slovak through my environment. I was trying to listen to my colleagues and friends around me to pick up new words I can use in my day to day life and circus workshops, classes. I did not spend a lot of my personal time learning Slovak but being immersed in the culture definitely was a bonus as it allowed me to pick up vocabulary through everyday life.
Firstly, my top word has to be “špičky” meaning to point. I use this word every lesson we have with the kids. This word is important because the kids need to point their toes in a lot of exercises.
The second most used word is “sklad”, which means storage. We always tend to use this word when talking about storage, where our things are, where to store everything. As well as, if you need help from the children you ask if they can take something from the “sklad”.
The third spot has to go to quite a few words which describe items that go into the storage. Such words are: žinienky (mats), loptičky (balls), kuželky (clubs), kruhy (rings) and šatky (scarfs). Most of these words just describe what kind of equipment we have in the circus.
And lastly, some of my most used Slovak words that don’t relate to circus are - ahoj and čau, which mean hello and goodbye in an informal way. Ďakujem which means thank you. And all of this concludes my most used Slovak words. In the past year, I managed to learn a decent amount of Slovak so I could communicate with the children, with my friends and coworkers.
To leave some advice, I think you should not be afraid of learning a new language and just engage with the Slovak community to expand your knowledge and learn a new language.
Text: Saulé Dilyté - Jimin (he/him/them), fotka: Cirkuskus
Jimin je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v organizácii Cirkuskus pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
Some people think video games are just a way to zone out, like watching TV, but they’re so much more. Games open up a world of possibilities beyond just having fun. Unlike movies, games are interactive—you actually have to do something. For example, in *Sonic CD*, if you don’t move, Sonic will literally jump off a cliff.
Nowadays, a lot of games, especially online multiplayer ones, aren’t just about competition—they can also be super relaxing. Take *ETS2*, where you can just chill, driving a truck and exploring. Games can boost both your physical and mental health, from sports or dance games that get you moving, to multiplayer games that help with social skills and teamwork. Plus, they connect people worldwide, letting you make friends and collaborate. Just remember, games are meant to be enjoyed, not something you feel forced to do!
A while ago, most online players were into competitive games where you faced off against other players or teams, with clear winners and losers. Some of these games, like *LoL*, developed toxic communities, especially in team-based games. But in the same year *LoL* came out, a solo developer released *Minecraft*, a game that changed everything. Unlike competitive games, *Minecraft* offers total freedom—no winners, no set paths, just exploration and creativity. Its multiplayer mode allowed players to build and collaborate in peaceful communities, making it the best-selling game ever.
Other notable games include *One Hour One Life*, where you live for 60 minutes, *Human Fall Flat*, a funny puzzle game with goofy physics, and *Pico Park*, a cooperative puzzle platformer. Communication is key in games like *Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes*, where players must describe and defuse a bomb using teamwork, and *We Were Here*, a puzzle game that requires players to communicate via walkie-talkies to solve challenges from different locations.
All these games highlight the importance of cooperation and effective communication for success. Cooperation is also key in game creation through mods. Communities of players work together to fix bugs, add content, and improve games, often sharing their work for free. Without mods, some games wouldn’t be nearly as popular or playable.
Some platforms, like *Humble Bundle*, support solidarity in other ways too. They sell game bundles at discounted prices, with a portion of the proceeds going to charity. You can even choose how much to donate, with a different NGO featured each month. For example, "Child's Play Charity" provides therapeutic games to pediatric hospitals. So far, *Humble Bundle* has raised over $256 million for charity.
Text: Manuel López
Manuel je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v Bratislavskom dobrovoľníckom centre. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
I have lived in Slovakia for around 7 months and I have noticed some differences between
my home country, Lithuania, and my current residence, Slovakia. I would like to highlight
some of the things I have learned.
The first thing I noticed when I arrived here at the end of January was the way pedestrian
crossings work. In Lithuania, pedestrians are a priority. Whenever I want to cross a road
without traffic lights, I am not afraid to cross because I know the cars will stop for me
because that is the rule and car drivers don't want to break that. While in Slovakia it is quite
rare to see a car stop for you. You either wait for a gap between cars, wait for all of them to
pass or just go across the road, which is quite brave. So, in a sense, I have gotten even
more careful around cars here, to hopefully not get hit. If you come here, be aware!
The second thing also involves cars and roads. I do not have a driving licence but with the
circus I had the chance to visit other cities in Slovakia. I have found out that it's quite scary to
drive on a highway in the dark. In Lithuania, highways and main roads have lights along the
road, which quite surprised me when I realised Slovakia doesn't. I am not sure why this is
the case but that is one more thing I have noticed.
Furthermore, the roads in Bratislava and around Slovakia are not very good compared to
Lithuania's ones. Even though Slovakia is a bigger country and both of the countries had to
overcome the fall of the Soviet Union, Lithuania had managed to repair its most used roads.
Of course, it is not perfect in either of the countries but that was another thing I have paid
attention to in my time here.
And lastly, some smaller things I have noticed while living here: both Lithuania and Slovakia
use cottage cheese (or also known as quark) but in my country it's mainly used to make
sweet things. However, Slovakia differentiates cottage cheese and quark to make sweet and
salty foods. The use of vignettes is in both countries but in Lithuania it is only assigned to
bigger cars, trucks and buses. In Slovakia, everyone has to pay for the roads or they might
get a fine. Also, I like to go to cafes and if I like their coffee, I might buy some coffee beans.
In Lithuania, it is quite customary to grind the coffee before the person takes it home.
Though in Slovakia, people were surprised when I asked if they could do that and some
weren't even able to do it. Slovaks tend to have a small grinding machine that you turn
yourself to make beans into coffee. I am not a big fan of this tradition, 'cause it adds more
time into my morning ritual.
These were a few differences I picked up on while living in Bratislava. I still have some time
to explore what Slovakia has to offer, so maybe I will come back with more interesting
contrasts between these two countries.
Text a fotka: Saulé Dilyté - Jimin (he/him/them)
Jimin je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v organizácii Cirkuskus pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.
Welcome to my life as a circus volunteer in Bratislava! Here's a glimpse into my daily routine.
Morning Routine
I wake up around 8 or 9 am, brush my teeth, wash my face, and prepare my breakfast.
Off to the Office
Office time starts at 11 am. I walk through the buildings and pass a coffee shop and a few boutiques, then I arrive at our office.
Office Work
At the office, I brainstorm TikTok ideas and social media content. Our workspace is equipped with tables, a small kitchen, and a chilling area.
Afternoon Activities
We're preparing a picnic and mini-show for the kids before our official performance on Friday. It's the last class of the year for many of them, except for summer camps and other events.
I ensure the kids are safe while on stilt walking duty. Suzanne plays games with them, such as getting the diablo without her noticing.
Performance Prep
Our upcoming performance at the Sports Club Slavia Agrofert includes various acts like a hoop performance, rola bola, dragon duo, silks, fire double staff, and trapeze.
Wrapping Up the Day
After the kids leave, we pack up our equipment and load our red Felicia. I return home in the evening, ending a fulfilling day.
Life as a circus volunteer in Bratislava is creative, collaborative, and full of joy. Each day is filled with trying out and learning new things.
Feel free to watch a video I prepared.
Text: Saulé Dilyté - Jimin (he/him/them), fotka: Cirkuskus
Jimin je dobrovoľníkom programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte v organizácii Cirkuskus pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený z programu Európsky zbor solidarity.