Margot’s Testimonial as ESC Volunteer in Sicily with Istituto Walden

My European Solidarity Corps journey in Menfi, Sicily, has been an experience full of learning, meaningful connections, creativity and unforgettable moments. Coming to Sicily as a volunteer, I was excited to discover a new culture, meet people from different backgrounds and contribute to the local community. What I experienced was much more than I expected.

One of the most important parts of my volunteering experience was working with children at the sea during “Naval League” and teenagers in the local community. Through different activities, such as culinary workshops, I had the opportunity to spend time with young people, communicate with them and support their personal and social development. Every interaction and just simple presence taught me something new. Their energy, stories and openness reminded me how important it is to create safe spaces where young people can express themselves, learn and simply enjoy being together.

My volunteering role also allowed me to explore my creative and digital skills. I was involved in social media and digital marketing, helping with communication, content creation and the online promotion of activities for tourists around Sicily “Giglio di Mare” and had a chance to create a new materials and strategy for its promotion. This gave me the opportunity to develop practical skills while contributing to the visibility of the organization and its projects. I learned how communication can connect a local community with people beyond its geographical borders and how storytelling can inspire others to become involved.

Of course, my ESC experience was also about discovering Sicily. Living in Menfi gave me the chance to explore the island, its landscapes, beaches, towns, traditions and food. I discovered places such as Palermo, Sciacca, Montevago,Porto Palo and many more that I might never have visited as a tourist and learned to appreciate the slower rhythm of life, the importance of community and the warmth of Sicilian people.

Looking back, my life in Menfi has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I became more confident, improved my communication and digital skills, learned to work with different people and gained a deeper understanding of what it means to contribute to a community.

Most importantly, I realized that volunteering is not only about giving your time. It is about sharing, learning, connecting and becoming part of something bigger than yourself.

Menfi will always be a special chapter of my journey and a place where I created memories, developed new skills, met inspiring people and discovered a little more about Sicily, Menfi and myself.