Half a year has passed since I came to Portugal. During this time at the association where I volunteer, we were super busy because of the many activities that were going on. Apart from that, I was occupied by so many opportunities that Lisbon is offering and spending time with my lovely flatmates and dear people me.
By collecting the food and necessities for the people of the neighborhood where the association is located, we made bags from reusable materials to put all these together. Later, together with the kids and colleagues, we visited around 20 families and distributed presents and wished them happy holidays. To wrap up the 2022, we organized an unforgettable and joyful dinner where we celebrated with almost 50 kids and spread some motivating and warm wishes to each other.
The first days of 2023 were crucial for us as we made plans and later on organized so many interesting activities, some of them with the help of partner associations, such as: promoting and joining a local theatre group, theoretical and practical bicycle activities and rides around the neighborhood and Lisbon, street football tournaments, picnics, pilates, yoga, music and dance classes, outdoor scavenger hunt games, visit to elderly house and socializing with elder people, master chef, safety walks in the neighborhood and overall education by police how to follow street signals, and so many. All this was done to improve skills and help kids gain knowledge regarding various things, as well as let them express themselves in different ways.
By attending activities and spending time in the association, the bond between kids and me became so strong that now we can´t imagine days without each other. I must say that even though I work daily with them on different topics and help them do homework and learn more, they help me grow as well.
Next to volunteering, I had plenty of time to dedicate to myself. I joined a volleyball club and started training there. Therefore, I connected more with locals.
I would like to add that Portugal is fascinating with its amazing nature, landscapes, beaches and cities. I had the opportunity to visit many of them and enjoy each moment.
Overall, life here has been amazing, especially with all the people around me, who I appreciate and love more and more each day.
