I'm a volunteer in Offene Jugendtreff Haus Wasserburg and I work with youth and children. We have two Youth centers: Vallendar and Urbar.
Workplace and Schedule
My work mostly starts in the afternoon, because my project is open for children after their school time. In addition to my volunteering hours, I also attend a German language school to improve my language skills. I dedicate 3 hours daily—either before or after work—to learn German through classes and self-study.
Activities During Workdays
I mostly work with children and teenagers who come to the youth centers after school. My tasks include:
Helping them with their homework and offering support with school-related topics such as helping doing their homework for those who wants a help.
Organizing games and recreational activities for those who want to relax or socialize.
Drawing and painting together with the kids as a form of creative expression.
Occasionally cooking or baking with the youth, and creating different kinds of handmade decorations or crafts.
These interactions not only support the young people, but they also help me gain new knowledge and skills—both practical and interpersonal.
Crocheted hanging basket
My collegue Lisa and I
Paperflowerbouquet
Seminars and Learning Experiences
March Seminar in Trier
In March, I participated in a three-day seminar held in Trier. The main topic was understanding personal boundaries and how not to overstep others’ comfort zones. This experience taught me a lot about respectful communication and personal space, especially in social and multicultural environments.
May Seminar in Kullyburg
In May, I joined another one-week seminar in Kyllburg. It was a very enriching experience where I learned even more useful life skills. We did hands-on workshops including handcrafts, drawing, and team-building activities.
This seminar also helped me improve my social confidence and taught me how to better interact and connect with different people.
Dancing at the seminar
Emoji Faces at the seminar
Achievements and Personal Growth
I attend a German language school and study German every day for at least 3 hours. My learning includes:
Participating in formal language classes.
Using online learning platforms and mobile apps.
Studying textbooks and grammar materials.
Practicing with colleagues, youth, and friends in daily conversations.
These efforts have helped me improve my understanding and confidence in speaking, listening, and reading in German.
I gained valuable experience working with young people from diverse backgrounds. I improved my social and interpersonal skills in a new cultural environment. I learned many practical skills through creative activities like cooking and crafting.
The seminars allowed me to grow personally and professionally. I became more confident in interacting and connecting with different people in everyday life. My German language skills have improved thanks to both school and practice.
On a rainy day at Berlin Seminar
Conclusion
My volunteer work at Youth centres Vallendar and Urbar has been very rewarding. I have grown both personally and professionally through daily interaction with youth and through training opportunities. I feel more confident, open, and connected to the community. I look forward to continuing this journey and contributing even more in the months ahead.
Yours
Musabyimana Vestine