Since late January, Youssef has been working with VIEWS International in Liège as an ESC volunteer, collaborating closely with our local partners, including Coordination Socioculturelle de Sainte-Marguerite (CSCSM) and La Baraka ASBL.
Coming from France, he already plays an active role in teaching French as a Foreign Language to adults, providing after-school support, and organizing neighborhood events. When he’s not busy, he enjoys sunny walks around town, trying new restaurants, and exploring Belgium’s culture.
We met with Youssef to learn more about his background and his time in Liège so far.
Hello Youssef, could you tell us about your previous professional experiences before joining VIEWS International?
In France, I started out in a specialized secondary program designed for students who faced difficulties during primary school. Later, I pursued a vocational certificate in logistics. Afterwards, I studied for a professional baccalaureate in the same field, but unfortunately, I didn’t complete that diploma. That’s when I decided to change direction. I took a three-month IT training course and obtained a certificate of completion. In parallel, I worked part-time in a supermarket. Following that, I tried another six-month career project, but it didn’t work out, so I began searching for more suitable training that would accommodate my visual impairment. During this period, I also did some short-term jobs in logistics and helped set up and dismantle equipment for events like a traveling circus!
What motivated you to come to Belgium and take part in a European volunteering program?
I’d previously participated in a youth exchange program in Bologna, Italy, where I discovered the value and excitement of traveling abroad to learn new skills. When I heard about the opportunity in Liège with VIEWS International, it felt like a perfect next step.
I’m someone who loves to learn and challenge myself, and this experience has really helped me do that. Plus, the support here; learning how to manage my apartment, cooking, and moving around independently has been invaluable for my visual impairment.
How have your first months in Liège been, and what are your plans going forward?
They have been wonderful! I have been exploring Belgian culture, meeting many new people, and actively participating in local activities, like planning the neighborhood fair in Sainte-Marguerite.
I’ll stay involved here until I return to France for my next training program, and in the meantime, I plan to make the most of every experience Liège has to offer.
“This experience has helped me discover hidden talents within myself and has truly pushed me to surpass my own limits,” concludes Youssef.
