From 5 to 9 October, our volunteers participated in the On-Arrival Training organised by Movit in Gozd Martuljek.

Following its established tradition, MOVIT organises these trainings to support volunteers who have recently arrived in Slovenia, as well as those who have already spent their first months of volunteering. The training provides an opportunity to get to know other volunteers, exchange experiences and learn more about the local context and their volunteering journey.

EUSA's three ESC volunteers, Balthazar, Elena and Lili, attended these activities, which are supported by the National Agency for EU Programmes and the Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps programmes.

This training is a key part of the ESC volunteers' journey. During the week, they had the chance to get to know other participants who are from different countries in Europe but also volunteer in Slovenia. 

Non-formal education was the core method to resonate with and share the volunteering experience. Small group games were an opportunity to connect with others, while workshops’ aim was to think about present and future selves, understanding each other’s weaknesses and strengths. With power relations always in the background, the activities developed awareness of human relations, a useful skill in life and even at work. Patience, stress management, understanding and accepting feelings or attitudes were some of the main aspects on which our volunteers worked.     

One of the highlights of the week was a trip to Planica Nordic Centre. Even though the weather was not the best, our volunteers had the opportunity to learn about the history of ski jumping and learn the difference between ski flying. Also, they visited the indoor snow tunnel where cross - country skiers can train even during the summer. The day ended at Ratece, a small town nearby, with a traditional Slovenian dinner. 

These are some of the memorable moments of the week for our volunteers:

“The whole week was very interesting, getting to know other volunteers and participants at the training. The location was great; being around the mountains and having the opportunity to run and walk in nature was great. Overall, I think I gained new knowledge in various areas, and I am excited to use this experience in my future work.” - Lili

“This past week, spent in the company of young people from various countries, has inspired me to reflect on my mission here in Ljubljana. As well as making lots of friends and speaking different languages, I have deepened my connection with nature and, despite the high intensity of the activities, I have also had the opportunity to reflect on myself and the strengths I am ready to draw upon to contribute to EUSA.” - Elena

“We had a wonderful week, full of thoughts, ideas & fun. I really enjoyed meeting new young people with whom I share the same spirit of solidarity, as well as a common view of life. I loved non-formal training sessions, which deeply inspired me for my current experience and for future projects. And I fondly appreciated the trainers’ carefulness to everyone’s needs and desires. I always felt at ease.” - Balthazar