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.