European projects seem very mysterious – a story told by a friend or a post on social media. Maybe everyone knows a person who had participated in a cultural exchange, but in the end no one knows how to do it. In fact, when I spoke with young Sicilians, I realized how many people do not know how easy it is to apply for a project in which people from different countries participate.
So I found myself in Palermo, participating in a project of the European Solidarity Corps from InformaGiovani. At first I didn't know what to expect. Although it seemed a little vague, in hindsight I see that it was better not to have the answers until I arrived because the experience I had was so much more magical than I expected.
The main purpose of my project was simple: to share the idea of European youth initiatives with the boys and girls of Palermo. In many ways I was both a messenger and a guide. I wanted to make them understand that applying for these projects was easier than it might seem, and that these opportunities to meet new people, travel and grow are available to anyone who is ready to take the first step.
During my experience I helped organize several PCTOs where I could directly interact with students and introduce them to the world of European youth projects. At first many seemed very insecure or skeptical, not knowing if they could get into the concept of the genre. However, after hearing my story, many were able to imagine being part of something bigger.
In addition to organizing PCTOs, I have had the opportunity to participate in projects and meetings in Sicily, Italy and Europe. I have made many friends during various projects and initiatives that brought new challenges and experiences to learn from. By preparing workshops and helping organize youth exchanges, I have had the opportunity to grow every day.
Most importantly though, I have been surrounded by incredible people throughout all of this who have shown me a little bit of their worlds. Despite our differences, we have managed to bond over a love of travel, learning and cultural exchange that has resulted in lifelong friendships.
It is impossible to tell my whole story in Palermo. There were so many moments of joy when I felt like I was part of something absolutely special. I came here to share the concept of European projects but I am the one who learned the most in the end. I learned how capable young people are if they have the right tools, the importance of getting out of your comfort zone and the strength of the community.
I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity. My adventure in Palermo has not only introduced me to a new culture – it has helped me discover a deeper connection to the idea of European solidarity and the impact it has on people and their communities. But most of all, it has made me realize that projects like this are not just about going abroad and meeting new people – they are about bringing people together, creating a sense of belonging, and creating the understanding that can change the world, step by step.
Kacper Woloszyk
Click here to read and download my personal project, a guide to face the period of volunteering here in Palermo.