When I first arrived in Germany for my voluntary service, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Everything was new: the environment, the people, the culture, and of course, the language. I came from Rwanda with a background in software development and a deep desire to grow, not just academically but also personally and socially. I’m currently doing my voluntary service at Mergener Hof in Trier, and these first few months have been both challenging and rewarding in many ways.
My Project
My role at Mergener Hof involves engaging with children and young people through games, sports, music, and leisure activities. One of the most important parts of my work is taking initiative to talk and play with them, which has helped me develop confidence and stronger communication skills. Even though I’m still learning German.
Language has been one of the biggest hurdles, but also one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey. I had taken an intensive course with the whole volunteer group in the first month before continuing the A level classes in evening sessions. My goal is to master the language even more and to be familiar with this language before my volunteer service ends in February next year.
Me at my kitchen duty in my project
Me serving food for the youth in my project
Me and my volunteer friends at the Heilig Rock Tage Trier
Outside my volunteering duties, I’ve also found time to grow personally and explore my hobbies. I’ve developed a strong interest in photography, especially in portrait, nature/landscape, street, event, and product photography. Germany offers so many beautiful scenes and cultural moments that it feels natural to want to capture them.
I also enjoy playing volleyball and going on hikes. These activities help me stay active, connect with nature, and meet new people. Whether it's a friendly volleyball match or a peaceful hike through the forest, these moments are refreshing and meaningful.
These hobbies have become important outlets for me to express myself, relax, and feel more at home in my new environment.
Peace, community, and dialogue
Living and working in Germany has opened my eyes to many cultural differences, and also similarities. One of the most powerful lessons I’m learning is how peace, community, and dialogue can shape a better society. Inspired by this, I even worked on structuring a peace-focused workshop for fellow outgoing volunteers that’s 90% practical and 10% theory including games, reflections, and group work to promote harmony and understanding.
I still have a long way to go in my journey with the language, my studies, and my integration. But I already feel more at home here. Every interaction, every smile from a child, every small win in German class is part of something bigger. I’m growing. I’m contributing. And I’m grateful.
Thank you for walking this path with me. I look forward to sharing more in my second report!
Warm regards,
Byiringiro Gislain Tribert