Before joining the European Solidarity Corps, my goal was clear: finding a meaningful way to broadcast my international business background and sharing my French culture, and to build a bridge between our cultures. I wanted to connect dots between people, cultures, and realities, especially in moments of displacement and uncertainty. I am passionate about cross-cultural topics and languages, and living daily in a Ukrainian Educational Hub in Bulgaria, surrounded daily with at least 4 languages, was nothing but intense and full of learnings. My flatmates and co-volunteers Paola, from Italy, and Clara, from Portugal, also enhanced the richness of cultural layers I was diving into. Their background in International Law and International Relations also helped in giving a full perspective during our lessons.

After completing my studies, I felt the need to embark on a meaningful journey — one that would allow me to make a real difference and, above all, support others. My time as a volunteer with “Situational Center Open Doors” in Bulgaria left a deep mark on me. Working every day with Ukrainian refugee children, I found myself surrounded by love, curiosity and resilience. We learned together, laughed together, and built a connection that went far beyond language. Sharing my culture — my roots in Italy and Sardinia — became a way to open a small window to the world for them, while they opened a much bigger window into my heart. Leaving was one of the hardest parts, because those children became part of me. They reminded me of the power of human connection, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Volunteering for the “Foundation Situational Center Open Doors” was an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience. It provided me valuable insights into Ukrainian culture and traditions, while teaching me profound lessons about strength, resilience, and hope. These lessons have become a part of me, inspiring the way I see the world and connect with others.