Hi! My name is Augustyna and not long ago I came back from a European Solidarity Corps
project in Lisbon. The project was called “Think European – Act Locally” and it was
organized in collaboration with a local association in Portugal. I’d love to share my
experience with you and hopefully inspire you to join a similar initiative!
Why did I decide to join an ESC project?
One of my biggest passions is being involved in social work and helping others. The idea
that my presence and actions can positively impact someone else’s life gives me a deep
sense of purpose. I often reflect on the fact that not everyone is given the same opportunities in life — whether it’s due to where they were born, their financial situation, or social background. Knowing that I can contribute, even in a small way, to making a difference is what has driven me to take part in community-focused activities since my teenage years.
Choosing Lisbon wasn’t random — I wanted to experience living and working in a multicultural environment, while also immersing myself in the everyday life of a vibrant and
diverse city. Even though Portugal may seem more familiar and “European,” the experience
pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me see things from a fresh perspective.
What was the project about?
“Think European – Act Locally” was a diverse and dynamic project that allowed me to grow
in several areas. My main responsibilities were in marketing and communication — I
created content for social media, prepared promotional materials, worked on newsletters,
and helped shape the public image of the organization.
Another big part of my role involved taking care of the hostel and supporting its guests. I
made sure everyone felt welcomed, answered questions, organized group activities, and
handled day-to-day needs.
I also led sessions for interns who were doing their placements with us — helping them
get started, guiding them through their responsibilities, and supporting their learning process. One of the most enjoyable tasks was organizing welcome lunches for new volunteers — it was the perfect way to connect, build a sense of community, and share some positive energy from day one.
And in my free time?
I spent every free moment by the ocean. The Atlantic coast was just a short trip away, and
it quickly became my sanctuary. Costa da Caparica and Cabo da Roca were my favorite
spots — places where I could breathe, relax, and reconnect with myself. Whether it was
watching the sunset, reading a book in the sand, or simply walking along the cliffs, these
moments gave me so much peace and inspiration.
Lisbon itself is full of life and beauty — from historic neighborhoods like Alfama to countless galleries, viewpoints, and local cafés. On weekends, I also visited places like Cascais, Sintra, and even Porto, making the most of every opportunity to explore this incredible country.
If you’re thinking about joining a European Solidarity Corps project — go for it! It’s a unique chance to grow personally and professionally, meet amazing people, and make a real difference in the world around you.
~ Augustyna Meyer
