Wish to live an experience abroad but don’t know how to make the dream come true?
In a world in which time is flowing faster and faster and in which people are stormed by an avalanche of information every day, we may miss some essential details about the opportunities the European Union offers to young people.
This is why today, we have decided to write a blog to raise more awareness about the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) portal where young people (18-30 years old) can find voluntary projects that the European Union fully funds!
The program gives YOU(th) the opportunity to be hosted by an organisation based abroad – from 2 weeks up to 12 months – and gain experience in different fields according to your interests, passions, and career perspective.
Every year, MOAS welcomes ESC volunteers wishing to practically learn how to work in a humanitarian organisation, with a focus on the fields of communications and fundraising.
Here are their testimonies so you can have a clearer idea and, why not, be inspired!
Joana (Portugal) – Fundraising team
Participating in the European Solidarity Corps program with MOAS in Malta is an incredibly enriching experience. From the very start, I was captivated by Malta’s vibrant culture, and the locals’ and residents’ warmth and hospitality have made me feel genuinely welcomed and at home. Their kindness and openness have enriched my stay and created a strong sense of belonging.
Working with MOAS has been equally transformative. As a humanitarian organisation committed to saving lives and providing aid to those in need, MOAS’s mission aligns perfectly with my aspirations. During my time here, I have had the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills that are essential for building a solid career in the humanitarian field. The hands-on approach at MOAS has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally, equipping me with the tools and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the future. Also, this experience has helped me build confidence in every aspect of my life. Whether it’s taking on new challenges, collaborating with diverse teams, or navigating unfamiliar situations, I feel more capable and self-assured than ever before.
What makes this experience truly special is the sense of purpose that comes with contributing to a mission that directly improves the lives of others. MOAS’s dedication to humanitarian work has inspired me to continue pursuing this path with even greater determination. Overall, my time with MOAS and the European Solidarity Corps program has been life-changing. It has not only strengthened my professional skills but also deepened my connection to the global humanitarian community. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity.
Lucia (Italy) – Communication team
After graduating in International Relations at the University of Genova (Italy), I planned to go abroad to learn as much as possible about how International Organizations work. My goal was to get the experience that would allow me to find, in the future, a job in line with my studies and interests. So, I came across the ESC program and MOAS’ open positions in the communications team.
I started my ESC project in September 2024. After 4 months, I feel already happy and grateful for all that I learned, and I know that it will be expendable in my future career.
I am getting much experience in drafting editorial calendars, writing blog articles, creating and publishing visual content (social media posts, infographics, leaflets), and taking pictures at events.
What I find most valuable is looking from the inside at how an NGO works, and dedicating my routine to research topics that I am interested in: the current situation in countries including Ukraine, Bangladesh, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan and good practices to deliver nutritional and medical aid and to provide training under the framework of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) to enhance resilience against climate change effects.
I really recommend everyone to have a look at the European Solidarity Corps projects to live abroad, meet amazing people from all over the world, and enhance their CV and career perspective.
Carmen (Spain) – Communication team
After finishing my bachelor’s degree, I knew I wanted to pursue international cooperation and humanitarian work abroad, although I wasn’t sure where to start. But one thing I was certain of is that I was ready to take on whatever came my way, even if it wasn’t exactly what I expected.
I found a position in my field of interest, which I saw as a great opportunity to advance my career. It was in Malta, though, and I had originally been looking for a volunteer role in Northern Europe for a change of scenery. Still, I decided to embrace the unexpected and see it as a valuable opportunity to learn and grow.
During my time volunteering, I’ve gained skills in communications, an area I hadn’t explored before, and developed insights into how humanitarian NGOs operate. These experiences have significantly enriched my professional growth. I’ve also encountered personal experiences that I might not have come across if I hadn’t taken the volunteering opportunity, and for that, I am glad.
If you’re a recent graduate, uncertain about your next step but eager to gain experience abroad, I highly recommend volunteering in a field that excites you. Volunteering in an ESC project is a great way to develop professional skills and gain international experience. And who knows, it might also teach you unexpected lessons about life. Even if it’s not exactly what you envisioned, embrace it as an opportunity to open new doors for your future. Every experience can lead to valuable lessons and new opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The motto of the European Union is Unity in Diversity, and the European Solidarity Corps program perfectly embodies this.
At MOAS’ headquarters in Malta, diversity is our strength: our team is very heterogeneous, composed of people from different countries and backgrounds and with different mindsets. Together, we join forces by sharing different views to find the best way to achieve our common goal: save the lives of those in need.
Disclaimer: “Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.”
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