Youssef joined us in Liège in late January 2025 to work with La Baraka and the Coordination Socio-Culturelle de Sainte Marguerite. During his five months of ESC volunteering, he developed his autonomy, teamwork, and interpersonal skills. He played an essential role in many activities – teaching French to adults, helping children with their homework, and welcoming newcomers to the youth centre. From him, we learnt a great deal about kindness and bravery.
In the blog below, he shares a personal reflection on his experience – what he did, what he learnt, and what he will take home with him to France.
Volunteering in Liège through the European Solidarity Corps has been an amazing experience. I got to discover new places, meet great people, and learn a lot about myself and others.
During my time here, I was involved in several organisations. At La Baraka, I helped adults who are learning French. I supported them with their lessons and even led a small activity to practise listening skills. It felt good to see that I could really help.
At GASS, I helped children with homework. I loved it! The kids were full of energy, and even though it was sometimes challenging, it was really rewarding. They taught me patience and gave me a lot of joy with their smiles and questions.
At the Maison des Jeunes, I worked on my weekly reports, joined meetings, and helped welcome young people. It was a calm place where I could think about everything I was learning and doing.
Some of the best moments were outside of work, like the colourful Carnaval of Eupen, a 15 km hike with the association La Lumière, and the Ramadan iftar dinners I shared with others. These moments really touched me because they brought people together with kindness and respect.
This project taught me so much. I learned how to listen better, work in a team, take initiative, and adapt to new situations. I also became more confident in myself.
I’m passionate about IT and want to build a career in that field, maybe even start my own company one day. Thanks to this volunteering experience, I now see how my future in tech can also include social impact. For example, I’d love to organise computer workshops for children or for people learning French.
I leave this project with a lot of gratitude. I met incredible people, shared meals, laughs, deep and light conversations, watched children grow and adults keep going despite challenges. Some days were simple, others more intense, but every day I felt like my presence mattered.
This volunteering experience inspires me to imagine a life that truly reflects who I am: a life where I stay engaged, curious, and open to others.
