Volunteering at IFOAM Organics Europe: Discovering Belgian culture & JINT training

In this article, one of our ESC volunteers shares their feedback about their ESC-experience. Enjoy sharing their experience!

We all know Belgium, the country of beers, waffles, and delicate chocolates. But let me tell you that this is merely a short stereotypical list of the Belgium culture and lifestyle.

During my time here at IFOAM Organics Europe I had the opportunity to visit Brussels and most of its world-famous historical buildings. As a French person, I could see that this capital was different than other European cities: you could feel and hear the international implications and the multiplicity of people from different nationalities walking down the streets. And one thing I could notice when travelling to the North of Belgium for the JINT training is that as soon as you leave Brussels, you get to know a totally different country. Indeed, people no longer speak English but Flemish.

And this was the main aim of our attendance to the JINT training: to meet and learn from the locals. For a week we would gather with other participants from all over the North of Belgium and discuss about the tradition and heritage of Flanders. In addition, we would participate and organise activities revolving around cohesion, solidarity, and team building. Overall, this training gave us a chance to better grasp the complexity of the Belgium identity as well as share our own culture. In conclusion, I would like to thank every trainer for the organisation of the week and for their joyful implication.

The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) provides young people residing in Europe with the unique chance to express their personal commitment through a full-time voluntary activity in a foreign country for a period of up to 1 year. Young volunteers can develop new skills and, therefore, improve their personal, educational and professional development. More information about ESC is available in the ESC website: europa.eu/youth/solidarity_en

Are you interested in the organic movement and want to experience its day-to-day work? Stay tuned and be ready to apply next spring– you could be part of our team!