O testemunho no. 1 da André (Spin)

 

After 5 months, I am sure that I will never regret this decision. My name is André Arpagaus, I am 29 years old, and I am currently doing voluntary service in Lisbon, Portugal, with a non-profit organisation called SPIN, which is located in a socially disadvantaged neighbourhood.

The "Associação Spin" is involved in various areas. Its main objective is to promote and defend intercultural dialogue, human rights, equal opportunities, solidarity, and social integration. To achieve these goals, it carries out various national and international mobility projects.

Generally, I spend three days in our office in the Bairro Padre Cruz neighbourhood and two days working from home. The working hours are fixed, but there is often the possibility to work flexibly. The organisation trusts its volunteers, which is by no means a given.

The work is extremely varied, from administrative tasks in the office to participating in events and projects on site and externally. In addition, I regularly take care of our in-house hostel. There is always plenty to do - there is never a dull moment.

Certain cultural differences are noticeable, but I quickly got used to them. Lisbon is incredibly liberal and relaxed, a city with a special charm. Due to the similarity of my internship at aha, I was able to settle in quickly here as well.

The biggest challenge, apart from the somewhat peculiar and difficult language, was living together with people from different countries. It is easy to forget how privileged we are - in every way.

The highlight so far? The entire experience! Lisbon is a breathtakingly beautiful city that offers everything your heart desires. Unimaginably great and cosmopolitan people with whom you create lifelong memories!