A year in the south-west of Alentejo
A year has passed since I arrived in Portugal, in the small town of Odemira. Reflecting on this adventure, I realize how rich, educational, and full of unforgettable memories this year has been.
My volunteering experience with Rota Vicentina, as part of the Regenerar Odemira II program and European Solidariy Corps, is coming to an end, but the experiences and lessons I’ve gained will stay with me for a long time.
First and foremost, I want to thank all the people who made this journey so memorable and contributed to making this adventure so special.
A huge thank you to the Rota Vicentina team for their warm welcome and constant support. They shared their passion for the region, hiking, and nature with me, and allowed me to acquire new skills, both technically and personally. Every challenge I faced helped me grow and surpass myself.
Every challenge I faced helped me grow and surpass myself.
From the very beginning, with Martina, my volunteering partner who shared daily life, work, projects, and friendship with me, we experienced intense moments together.
Like the four-day hike between Cercal do Alentejo and Zambujeira do Mar. This immersion in Alentejo allowed us to discover breathtaking landscapes, warm-hearted people, traditions, and generous nature.
In just a few days, I felt at home, and after a year, leaving this place is even harder.
A year full of connections
At the heart of this experience, it was mainly the people I met that touched me the most. The other volunteers, from different countries and cultures, enriched my everyday life. The local residents, with their generosity and eagerness to share their region, also played a key role in this human adventure.
The highlight of this adventure was undoubtedly the organization of the JUNTES Festival. A project combining art, meetings, music, the region, and celebration. It was an incredible mix of creativity, management, and challenges, and I take great pride in it.. Um projeto que combinou arte, encontros, música, a região e celebração. Foi uma mistura incrível de criatividade, gestão e desafios… Tenho muito orgulho nisso.
This year has opened my eyes to the world, given me a sense of civic responsibility, and a fresh perspective on the importance of community and mutual support. It taught me to stay curious, dream big, and cherish every moment.
Today, as this wonderful adventure comes to an end, I leave Portugal with a heart full of gratitude.
The memories I take with me—whether in the form of landscapes, friendships, or achievements—will continue to inspire and guide me in my future projects.
Obrigada! ❤️
Nina was born in 1998 and raised in Chartres in France. She studied theater and visual arts. She worked with children and teenagers in a school and in summer camps. She is a ECS volunteer for one year in Rota Vicentina, as part of the Regenerar Odemira II project. She takes care of the walking […]
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