O testemunho No.1 da Ilaria

 

Hi, I'm Ilaria, a Spin volunteer. I've been in Lisbon for almost two months now and I feel I can share the first part of my experience here. This city and Spin have welcomed me in the best possible way. My now friend, Sinem, another volunteer, came to the airport to welcome me and help me to arrive in Casa Anjos. 

I was very nervous and worried about my level of English, the interactions that awaited me and the work I would have to do.  As always happens to me, my mind had created an extremely frightening scenario for me. Everything changed when I met the people involved in this project. The humanity, warmth and understanding of everyone were important factors in helping me to start expressing myself and come out of the symbolic safe and solitary shell I had created for myself. 

This is my first experience of living outside Italy, and I had many doubts and uncertainties before I left.

 

I am beginning to understand many things about myself, and I am happy that every day, for one reason or another, is a challenge. What I like is that these challenges are met with kindness and understanding. At work, everyone is very helpful and always willing to listen and answer questions or doubts.

I live in the Anjos house with the other volunteers, and I am happy with the relationship that is developing between us. There are now eight of us, and the space is more cramped, but the other side of this coin is that we are led to interact more and discover each other more and more. We are training our listening skills and, at times, our tolerance.  I am living in a shared room and I admit that this is one of the things that is testing me the most. Finding my space is not easy, but I am doing my best to maintain a balance between the solitude I need and the sociability I am drawn to in this experience.

Another big challenge is finding my place here in the city. I miss nature and my animals. Whenever I need support, I seek it in nature, my greatest ally. I remain open-hearted, ready to understand, discover, listen, create connections and express myself in the clearest way possible.

O testemunho No. 2 do Nacho (SPEA)

I ended my first testimony by saying that I felt the best was yet to come. And I was completely right. These last few months have been, without a doubt, some of the most intense of my life. I have met many places and people and lived many new experiences. But the most beautiful thing, and what would surprise the Nacho of a few months ago, is that I have made friends for life. Before coming here, I never thought I would be able to build such close and intimate friendships. Now I already have trips planned for after we finish our projects. 

After a few months of adaptation in which I was more focused and motivated by my work in SPEA, I have had a period of very intense social activity, which has made me know how much I like to meet people from other places and learn something from all of them. I believe that, through this kind of experiences, we can all discover a lot about ourselves and grow personally through that knowledge. 

On the other hand, my work at SPEA has only gotten better, making amazing trips with amazing companies, doing new activities that I had never done before and, above all, always learning. All my friends tell me: in places like Berlengas, the Algarve or Miranda do Douro, anyone can work happily. Between work trips and plans with friends, we could say that I have had very little “free time”. This has also made me realize that sometimes we have to reject plans, disconnect and rest a bit to be able to give our 100% to the people around us. 

In short, I think I could define these last few months as a process of fun and continuous learning, both about myself and about the people and the world around me. Now, being more than two months away from the end of my project, I am already thinking that I don't want it to end.

O testemunho da Alice (Kalistratia)

 Participar neste projeto do European Solidarity Corps, em parceria com a Kalistratia e a associação Spin, foi uma experiência profundamente enriquecedora. Desde que regressei a Portugal percebo como é difícil traduzir por palavras tudo o que vivi e aprendi mas, felizmente, tudo isso se reflete no meu dia a dia.

(🇬🇧 Taking part in this European Solidarity Corps project, in partnership with Kalistratia and the Spin Association, was a deeply enriching experience. Since returning to Portugal, I’ve realized how difficult it is to put into words everything I experienced and learned—but fortunately, all of it is reflected in my daily life.)

Em plena natureza da Calábria organizámos um campo de verão informal para crianças onde a preocupação pelo ambiente, a arte e o movimento foram os nossos principais instrumentos de aprendizagem. Paralelamente dedicámo-nos à pintura de um rio numa escadaria de uma das aldeias principais e, ao fim de duas semanas, já tínhamos criado laços fortes com toda a comunidade. Esse vínculo tornou possível convidar os moradores a juntarem-se à pintura, transformando-a num símbolo físico dessa grande família.

(🇬🇧 In the heart of Calabria’s nature, we organized an informal summer camp for children, where environmental awareness, art, and movement were our main tools for learning. At the same time, we worked on painting a river along a staircase in one of the main villages and, after two weeks, we had already built strong ties with the whole community. That bond made it possible to invite local residents to join in the painting, turning it into a physical symbol of that big family.)

Na terceira semana iniciámos a preparação do festival Calabria Eco Fest, que foi definitivamente onde aprendi mais sobre colaboração e sobre como a ecologia, a criatividade e o espírito comunitário podem transformar um espaço e aproximar pessoas. Depois de trabalhar intensamente durante o festival, a última semana trouxe tempo para descansar e apreciar com calma tudo o que vivemos.

(🇬🇧 In the third week, we began preparations for the Calabria Eco Fest, which was definitely where I learned the most about collaboration and how ecology, creativity, and community spirit can transform a space and bring people closer together. After working intensively during the festival, the final week gave us time to rest and calmly appreciate everything we had experienced.)

Esta experiência não foi apenas um ato concreto de voluntariado, foi um verdadeiro encontro com o outro, com a natureza e com a cultura local.

(🇬🇧 This experience was not just a concrete act of volunteering—it was a true encounter with others, with nature, and with the local culture.)

O testemunho No.1 da Augustyna (SPIN)

When I arrived in Lisbon three months ago, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I came here with an open mind and a bit of curiosity, hoping that this experience would help me grow personally and professionally. Looking back now, I can already say that these first few months have been full of small discoveries, quiet joys, and new routines that feel surprisingly comforting. One of the first places that truly captured my heart was Praia do Guincho. I still remember the first time I stood there, feeling the ocean breeze and watching the wild waves crash against the shore — it was like the sea whispered, “welcome.” That beach has become my escape, my place to breathe, think, and just be.

Life in Lisbon flows differently. I often find myself sitting in local parks with a good book, losing track of time under the sun. It’s become one of my favorite rituals. There’s something about reading in the soft Lisbon light that makes every story feel more alive. And speaking of rituals – I’ve definitely developed a new love: Pão de Deus. I could eat one every single day (and I kind of do). As for Pastel de Nata... well, let’s just say it’s not for me. I tried to like it, really!

The project itself has given me a deeper look into the NGO world and the value of youth work. The tasks I’ve been given have allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, and I already feel more confident in taking initiative and working in a multicultural environment. I’m slowly finding my place here – both in the city and in the office. 

And most importantly, it’s the people who’ve made this beginning so meaningful. My flatmates and fellow volunteers are kind, open, and always ready to help or share a laugh. It’s comforting to know that we’re all in this together. I’m excited for what the next three months will bring. I know there’s still a lot to learn, more sunsets to watch, and a few more books waiting for me in Lisbon’s quiet corners.

On-arrival training testimonies - SPIN volunteers (Gaia, Ilaria, Jule, Veronica)

Our SPIN volunteers, Gaia, Ilaria, Jule and Veronica, just completed the mandatory On-Arrival Training organized by the National Agency! Read their honest feedback below:

Ilaria Gallo

Last week I took part in my first volunteer training course in Paredes, near Porto.We were a large group of young volunteers from various parts of Portugal. Each of us brought our own talents, knowledge, challenges and fears with us.

I am very grateful to my trainers for their energy and for creating a safe space for all of us volunteers to share our emotions, experiences, vulnerabilities and lots of laughter. They were very flexible, respecting the pace of the group, and thorough in providing us with all the important and entertaining information.

I loved my group, and we formed some really beautiful connections that I hope to cultivate in the future.

After creating the group agreement, which arose from sharing our common needs, we began the activities. The activities were proposed according to the principles of non-formal education. What a joy! No hierarchies, playfulness, and respect for everyone's needs. I think it's really the best way to learn without even realizing it. A spontaneous collaboration emerged within the group, bringing out everyone's talents and helping us to support each other in our difficulties.

During the open space, many interesting workshops were proposed, involving body, soul and mind, making it a truly rich and intense day.

I feel truly enriched by this experience and want to treasure all the lessons I have learned. 

Gaia Mascioli

When I found out I was going to take part in the on-arrival training in Paredes, I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity. Some of my flatmates, already doing their ESC volunteering projects, had told me how meaningful their training had been — a space full of exchange, inspiration, and new friendships. So with high hopes and an open heart, I packed my bag and got ready for this new chapter in Portugal. 

We kicked things off with some icebreaking games, which were fun and helped lighten the mood. But I was honestly disappointed when they split us into fixed groups on the very first day, because the group divisions kind of boxed us in and limited those opportunities.

The activities themselves were well-structured and often inspiring. We talked about our ESC experience, the projects we were working on, the challenges we were facing, and practical things like pocket money and insurance. It was a mix of personal reflection and useful info. But what I struggled with the most was the lack of real, deep conversations within my group. Even though the sessions were designed to encourage sharing, I often felt like people were holding back or just not that interested. The discussions stayed pretty surface-level, and the facilitators didn’t really push us to go deeper. I tried to bring in honest questions and open up a bit, but I didn’t always get the kind of response I was hoping for.

The facilitators were kind and well-organized when it came to logistics, but emotionally and relationally, I felt something was missing. The tone of the sessions — sometimes too light or overly playful — felt a bit off for a group of young adults who were already used to responsibility and eager for meaningful dialogue. A lot of the creative activities (like making short videos or building things) were fun to do, but then… nothing. They weren’t watched, discussed, or acknowledged. It felt like the effort we put in wasn’t really seen, and that slowly drained people’s motivation. When your input isn’t valued, it’s only natural to stop feeling as engaged.

One activity that really stood out to me, though, was the “walk and talk.” We walked around the town in small groups and tackled some big questions — about the EU, its global role, what we’re grateful for, what we find frustrating. It was during that walk that I had a powerful exchange that reminded me what feels “normal” or “basic” to us is often far from accessible or guaranteed for others outside EU borders. That was one of the few moments when I truly felt the richness of this multicultural space — where someone else’s story helped me see the world in a different light.

Despite the ups and downs, I still feel that this experience gave me a lot. Could it have been better? Probably. But am I happy I went? Absolutely. Because I’ve realized that things don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes, it’s in the gaps — the awkward silences, the things that didn’t quite work — that we grow the most. I’ve learned that if I want something different, I need to build it myself. And I can. One conversation, one connection, one day at a time. In simple words, I’ve learned not to expect every space to meet my needs perfectly because I can shape my own space and discover my strengths along the way.

Jule Mangani:

From the 14th to the 19th of July my volunteer mates and I went to our on arrival training. We were accommodated in a nice hotel in Paredes, and warmly welcomed with some drinks and some "get to know each other" games. We met about 40 other volunteers who are currently in portugal. We were divided into smaller groups to get to know each other better. Each day we were taken by bus to the place where we had our activities, we spent the 4 days of intense training doing activities : team building, roleplay, games, debates, but we also had more formal moments of information about our rights and duties as volunteers, We had the possibility to share about our volunteering experiences, present our project, discuss about the potentiel tricky situations or conflict that we might have. I was very happy to discover the projects of the other participants, which were really different from each other. I enjoyed the diversity of ages, nationality, and mindsets of our group, we all had the chance to speak our minds about the topics that interest us regarding our experience in Portugal, and it was consistent to hear the opinions of our colleagues and of our trainers.

The formal activities of the week were from 9 to 18 everyday, such a busy programme. If I have to be honest, it was a little too intense for me, but it was also because of my doing since I didn't really use my free time to rest. Unfortunately for me I felt the activities and assignments were a bit "school like", and I have very poor concentration skills and investment motivation in this kind of situation, so the week felt a little long for me!

I did like spending time with new people but such a big group of strangers did generate some anxiety, with the frustration of not getting to know them better in the little time that we had and with the number of participants. As for our stay, I enjoyed the comfy hotel and my very nice roommate, the food was nice, except for the one in the place we had lunch, which was a little lower quality. Regarding the activities themselves, I enjoyed doing some casual little games but lacked motivation in the more demanding exercises. As for the content of the informative moments, I found them a bit outdated for a majority of volunteers who had been here for 5 or 6 months. If I could suggest improvements, I would ask for a session about the funding of Erasmus projects and ESC, in order to understand better what actually allows us to participate in such projects and to participate in such a week. I would also have liked a module on mental health, since I believe it is a relevant topic to be addressed, especially for young people who are for a lot of them living on their own for the first time. 

Let's see how the midterm training goes, fortunately it will be shorter and we will have already met some of the participants!

Veronica Hidalgo:

My experience during the arrival training was incredible. I met so many new people, some of whom were residents of Lisbon. During this week, I learned about different cultures, especially Portuguese culture. I also learned about my rights and obligations, how to handle different situations, and how to express my thoughts and fears during my volunteering experience. I loved the experience; it was definitely one of the best weeks so far.

O testemunho No.1 da Verónica (ANFR)

Hello everyone. I don't know how to start, so I'll start from the beginning. I discovered Lisbon during my sociocultural animation internship. I was fascinated and sure I had to come back. A friend told me about the European Solidarity Corps projects, and I decided to look for an opportunity in Lisbon. During that search, Spin came across a project I loved. During the selection process, they recommended I switch to the ANFR project, Bola p'ra frente, which I liked even more since it combined everything I had studied for. I was very nervous about the interview and anxiously awaited the final decision. When I received the email stating that I had been accepted, I was overwhelmed with emotions at once. I knew it was going to be a great opportunity, and I wanted to make the most of it. I imagined a million possible scenarios of what my year here would be like.

But I never imagined the huge barrier I would have to overcome. LIVING IN ENGLISH, I've never been very good with languages, and although I'm more or less fluent in Portuguese, I struggle with it in English. At first, it was hard, but as the days went by, I relaxed a lot, and my English gradually began to flow. Although I'm not known in the association for my incredible English, the truth is that I communicate more easily.

Another great enemy was loneliness. Sometimes I'm grateful for being alone because it helps me think, but other times, when I've had a bad day, I'd like to go with my friends for a Coke and talk without having to think about every word. Even so, my roommates act as my friends when we're having a bad day; they're definitely becoming great friends.

As for ANFR and the Bola project, it's incredible. Learning about this reality and being able to be part of it all is a pleasure for me. Both the workers and the young people have welcomed me and included me in the association. I hope I can help a little bit like you do with BPC.

O testemunho final da Sinem (SPIN)

 Olá Everyone!

This is my first and last testimony. “First” because I needed time to process and write it. And “last” because after three months, I’m returning home.

I first heard about ESC during my university years. Back then l due to life’s circumstances, I didn’t think much of it. But now I’m sure that a younger, less experienced version of me would have embraced this journey even more wholeheartedly.

Let’s go back to the very beginning. When I started preparing for this project, I was already working at a marketing agency. I had to try really hard to make this happen. So when I found out I was selected, the happiness and excitement I felt were simply indescribable.

After years of living alone and working in the private sector, I suddenly became…a volunteer. Not just a role but a shift in mindset, a new way of being.

My life began to change in every possible way. Waking up later than I was used to in Türkiye, starting the day at a slower pace and most of all crying, getting angry, being excited, laughing…in a language that wasn’t mine.

Working with people who weren’t just colleagues but also housemates was quite challenging for me. Different cultures, different habits, different styles of communication…But now, looking inward at the end of it all, I know this for certain, I have no regrets.

I’m deeply grateful for everything I’ve experienced and everything I’ve become.

At the beginning, hearing so many different English accents due to cultural diversity made communication difficult.But step by step with small “baby steps” each day, I began to notice my own progress.

Being able to express myself more softly and clearly was such a joy to witness.

I learned that some things aren’t as terrible as we imagine in our minds. And at the same time, some things aren’t quite as perfect as we expect either. That’s why shedding our assumptions, simply observing, and moving with our hearts is so important.

Believing that I did my best has strengthened my self-confidence. It helped me trust myself in a way I hadn’t before.

As for Portugal…

Exploring a culture and country I didn’t know, from scratch, was truly a beautiful experience. Every unfamiliar street, every new face, helped me see things in a different light.

And now, as I leave, I carry all the feelings I’ve experienced with me.

Thank you, SPIN.

I’m so glad you were a part of my life journey.

The one reading this,

If you’re already a volunteer or thinking of becoming one, I wish you a meaningful, transformative, and joyful journey.

🤍

With love,

Miraç Sinem