What inspired you to work for NGO EnriquezArte?
I was a volunteer in EnriquezArte in 2019 for one year. At first, I came only for three months but I extended my stay for nine months because of the covid season. In that time I became a coordinator in the summer camp and had an amazing experience that changed my life.
After COVID-19, we started to build a food bank for the people of the neighborhood as well. I was in love with community work.
Describe a typical day at work.
We have two briefings per day that start our two shifts (10 am and 2 pm), we organize the tasks of each volunteer and deal with the emergencies (if we have any). Each day we have partnerships in different associations so I have to coordinate that.
Often I have to do different introductory interviews with new volunteers. I have to control and supervise the tasks of the long-term volunteers, guide them, etc.
Working in the kitchen of EnriquezArte with the local volunteers who help in the kitchen.
Why do you do what you do?
Because I love to work with people and help the people as well. I need to know for whom I'm working (you can't feel this in a big company) and in my work, I can see very clearly the impact of my work.
We are helping a lot of people in this neighborhood with the food bank and the social reinsertion. Also, we are showing a lot of tourists the real Barcelona and how life is here away from Sagrada Familia.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part is the welcoming interview with the new volunteers, checking their expectations, and guiding them in the program. All the people have different histories and motivations for choosing this program and finding it out and trying to integrate them with the tasks and the team is a big challenge for me... and I love it!
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
Well, the degree in human resources was supposed to teach me to manage people but I only learned working in reality and being the leader of a professional team. It is absolutely crucial to my work because all the volunteers have different kinds of expectations and the community life could be overwhelming for some people. Cultural differences come up, too, and sometimes I have to be a mediator in conflicts.
Traveling in Malmo, Sweden during my gap year, which was the biggest trip of my life.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Travel light without much luggage is a little advice. The big one is don't be afraid of cultural differences, be open to meeting new people and new places, and don't follow the tourist guides about the popular places in the biggest cities. The best way to know about the real culture of a country is to go to the parts of the cities where real people live, spend time, and eat in the neighborhood restaurants.
Why should someone choose NGO EnriquezArte over competitors?
We are in a special neighborhood, a place where the working people live. This neighborhood has a big immigrant population, with a lot of problems and a big potential to help. Our organization is based in this neighborhood and all the activities we do are thinking about our people. For sure the competitors have very interesting activities and proposals but none are in Nou Barris.
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
We work on building and promoting harmonious coexistence among these inhabitants, who increasingly encounter difficulties in accessing basic resources, have a low educational level, and face social and labor exclusion. Our strength lies in embracing our differences, which instead of being sources of conflict, fear, and division, unite us around a common goal: to share and create value for evolving together.
We strongly believe that by learning to live better together, and respecting others as well as ourselves, we can have a positive impact on society. So, if you wish to (re)discover yourself, get to know others, share, exchange, learn, welcome, help, give, and receive a lot!
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
My goal is to facilitate a transformative experience where participants delve into self-discovery, gaining insights into their own strengths and values. By immersing themselves in our neighborhood, they'll grasp its unique essence and challenges, fostering empathy and understanding.
Through meaningful community engagement, participants will have the opportunity to contribute positively, cultivating a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Additionally, the vibrant backdrop of Barcelona will serve as a rich educational resource, offering diverse cultural perspectives and life lessons. Overall, I envision participants leaving with enriched self-awareness, a deeper connection to our community, a philanthropic spirit, and a broader understanding of the world through their encounter with Barcelona.
Traveling in Lisbon, Portugal. I love this city! I came back 4 times after that trip!
How do you help support participants?
In this program, which can sometimes pose challenges in community living, I take on the role of guiding participants to attain their objectives. I offer steadfast companionship, providing the essential support they require. Navigating the complexities of communal life can be demanding, and my guidance aims to ease this journey, offering encouragement, problem-solving, and a steady presence to ensure their success.
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
I am frequently asked about the program's challenges, difficulties, and the intricacies of planned activities. I respond candidly, providing truthful insights, and supplement my answers with the experiences shared by other volunteers. Transparency is key, allowing me to address concerns directly and offer a comprehensive understanding of the journey ahead.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Primarily, traveling and immersing oneself in different cultures expands horizons and nurtures self-awareness. It prompts introspection and growth by challenging assumptions and fostering a deeper understanding of oneself in a global context.
Furthermore, it cultivates an appreciation for our own blessings and prompts a reevaluation of life goals. Witnessing diverse lifestyles and values encourages personal reflection, leading to a more meaningful path forward.
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
Learning a new language is crucial. It widens communication horizons, fostering cross-cultural understanding and enhancing cognitive abilities. Proficiency in another language opens doors to diverse experiences, opportunities, and connections, enriching personal and professional growth in an increasingly interconnected world.
Traveling in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Returning home in March 2023, after four years.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
For those aspiring to travel abroad, here are some valuable tips:
- Embrace cultural curiosity: Approach new cultures with an open mind. Engage in local customs, try regional cuisine, and seek to understand different perspectives.
- Plan and research: Prioritize research on your destination. Learn about local customs, weather, transportation, and attractions to make the most of your journey.
- Learn basic phrases: Familiarize yourself with key phrases in the local language. Even a few words can greatly enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.
- Travel light: Pack essentials and versatile clothing. Traveling light enhances mobility and reduces stress during transitions.
- Safety first: Prioritize safety by staying aware of your surroundings, safeguarding your belongings, and knowing emergency contacts.
- Cultural sensitivity: Respect local customs and etiquette. What's acceptable at home might not be appropriate elsewhere.
- Immerse and engage: Step out of your comfort zone. Engage with locals, join cultural activities, and create memorable experiences beyond tourist spots.
- Flexibility: Be prepared for unexpected changes. A flexible mindset can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
- Budget wisely: Create a budget and stick to it. Balance between splurges and cost-effective choices to make the most of your resources.
- Capture moments mindfully: While capturing memories through photos is important, don't forget to truly experience moments without being overly focused on your camera.
- Stay healthy: Prioritize your well-being by staying hydrated, eating nutritious food, and getting adequate rest.
- Document your journey: Maintain a travel journal or blog to record your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. It's a great way to relive your adventure later.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
A meaningful journey to me encompasses profound personal growth and genuine connections. It involves immersing myself in new cultures, embracing diverse perspectives, and stepping out of my comfort zone.
A significant trip is one where I learn about myself, challenge my limits, and return with a deeper understanding of the world and my place within it. The interactions, lessons, and memories from such journeys resonate long after I've returned, enriching my life in ways that extend far beyond the physical boundaries of the trip itself.
What does ethical global engagement mean to you?
Ethical global commitment signifies a dedication to principles that transcend borders. It involves actively considering the impact of our actions on a global scale, valuing cultural diversity, and addressing social and environmental challenges responsibly.
This commitment entails making choices that align with human rights, environmental sustainability, and social justice, irrespective of geographical boundaries. It's about recognizing that our choices influence the broader world and striving to create a positive impact that benefits all of humanity and the planet we share.
