Final Presentation Weronika Bielec

1. My EVS Experience Picture it - Build Your Future Weronika Bielec

2. How it started? Decision about volunteering was really spontaneous. I was dreaming about living in Portugal for the past 2 years, so in one month I changed my life completely, I packed my suitcase and moved to Portugal - Lisbon. It was one of the best decision of my life. How many amazing people I met. how many amazing moments I experienced and how much I learned about myself will stay with me forever.

3. I became part of the SPIN association in Lisbon whose fundamental objectives are to promote and defend intercultural dialogue, human rights, equal opportunities, solidarity and social inclusion. The main tool they are using to achieve their fundamental objectives is the implementation of international mobility projects. I had the opportunity to be in the process of preparing, coordinating and taking part in some of the projects during my volunteering.

4. Initiatives during my volunteering Active Hope Estagios Its Move Academy Live It Lisbon June Summer in the Street Almoco de Reis Live It Lisbon July Swap Market Solar cooking workshops Acting Green Estagios Enaip Vet

5. Solar cooking workshops One of the most important results of my volunteering was a project “Live it Lisbon” which lasted in total of seven months. The main goal of the project was not only to promote active citizenship but also to allow participants to learn about different cultures and broaden their horizons. I worked with people for whom this was their first trip abroad, which provided a unique opportunity to show them how many opportunities exist outside their country. Through workshops I tried to build global awareness and convey values related to social and environmental responsibility. I introduced environmental topics, such as alternative cooking methods using a solar oven and had workshops about it.

7. Daily life In daily life at the office I was taking cake on our social media. I managed an Instagram account, where I created engaging content and graphics to promote Spin association effectively. Whenever new volunteers come to us, we welcome them with great joy and a welcome lunch. it was a very nice activity that brought together all the people in the office.

8. Free time In my free time I enjoyed the beauty of Portugal. I had the opportunity to travel a lot and get to know this country better : Algarve, Coimbra, Guimaraes, Porto, Nazare, Peniche, the natural parks and the most incredible Madeira island.

9. Surfing I fulfilled my big dream and started surfing. I am incredibly happy that I have tried it was like love at first wave and I hope that soon I will be able to continue my surfing adventure again.

10. I fell in love with Portuguese history, culture and traditions. Everything is so magical about this country, you can have beautiful long beaches and also really steep cliffs. Small fisherman cities are full of mystery and beauty. It is an extraordinary country that delights with the taste of Portuguese port wine, Fado music and the amazing art of hand- painted Azulejos - ceramic tiles covered with glaze.

11. Obrigada! I’m really grateful that I had this amazing opportunity. I will always associate this time with self-development and the incredible happiness I experienced getting to know my people, new culture and enjoying life.