Embracing new beginnings…

The first training month of the Volunteer For Change programme has been a whirlwind of new experiences, challenges, and personal growth for the students who joined in August. We spoke with three participants who shared their unique journeys and insights.

30.09.2024 | By Caterine, Roberto & Alexandra | Pictures: DRH Lindersvold

Leaping into the Volunteer For Change adventure!

Meet Volunteer For Change student Caterine from Brazil.

For years, I have been contemplating doing something different – something adventurous, meaningful, and impactful. I wanted to undertake something I could look back on with pride. This desire led me to the Volunteer for Change Programme at DRH Lindersvold. The programme offers an opportunity to learn various subjects, make a meaningful impact, and step outside our comfort zones. It checked off many items on my bucket list.

Despite my fears and second thoughts, I decided to take the leap and trust the signals I was receiving. Signing the contract and booking the tickets were daunting steps, and even then, my mind sometimes made me question if I was heading in the right direction. Leaving my family in Brazil was particularly challenging – ten months felt like a long time. Although it wasn’t my first farewell, it was one of the first times I honestly didn’t know what to expect, not even knowing the country I was going to volunteer in.

I have had many experiences and adventures in my life, but just before boarding the aeroplane, I realised this was the biggest one so far. Now, three weeks into the programme, I have numerous reasons to trust the universe and believe I made the right choice. I continue to wonder about the adventures and challenges that lie ahead and how this experience will change me, but I am happy to be discovering it firsthand.

Transforming from within.

Meet Volunteer For Change student Roberto from Italy.

Before coming to DRH Lindersvold, I felt the weight of my wrong choices, my inability to respond to situations that didn’t resonate with my soul, and being in a place that didn’t reflect who I am. From this, I found the strength and resolve to climb out of the well. Unable to change my surroundings, I decided to change myself.

The universe led me to discover this programme, and if I couldn’t do something for myself, perhaps I could do something for others. At DRH Lindersvold, I’ve found a fantastic group of people, each with their own challenges and strengths, who are helping me to be open-minded and explore the incredible diversity of the world. This journey has included everything from long walks along the fjord to biodynamic gardening and even collecting caterpillars. We also study interesting topics that encourage intellectual growth and offer a better understanding of the world around us and why it can cause us pain.

Despite the demanding schedule, I can sense the personal growth that this experience is bringing me. I am with a group of people who accept and appreciate me for who I am has undoubtedly played a role in this development.

Thank you, Volunteer For Change programme, for giving me the opportunity to change myself in a way that will contribute to changing the world.

Prepare for rivers of conversations.

Meet Volunteer For Change student Alexandra from Greece.

In the heart of the countryside, near a beautiful sea and some welcoming deers, conversations flow like rivers, and ideas bounce off the walls. My name is Alexandra, and I am participating in the Volunteer For Change programme at DRH Lindersvold. The days here are full, and time passes slowly. There are lessons, laughter, and many challenges.

Living in a community for the first time presents its own set of difficulties, from finding a balance between socialising and private time to reaching a deeper understanding of our world. Some days can be stressful, but there is a deep respect for each other’s perspectives and pasts, coupled with a shared yearning for a common future – one where education and change are not just ideals but realities.

The journey here is one of continuous discovery, guided by curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to growing and supporting each other. Problems and challenges arise in every environment, but they are more manageable when diversity and mutual respect are established.

Surrounded by others who share your passion and vision, you realise that together, we can change not only the way we teach but also how we perceive the world. We all move around the school at our own pace, sometimes with quiet excitement and enthusiasm and other times stressed by the challenges of communal life. The scent of fresh air and rain, a hot coffee, and a good discussion with your team are always comforting when you feel overwhelmed.

Moments of peacefulness, like paddling in silence at sunset or engaging in funny and inspiring conversations with Sjak, the school’s farmer, while collecting flowers and vegetables in the garden, enrich our days. Getting to know the vulnerable students who live at the school and our teachers and having inspiring conversations about change are integral to our experiences here.

Be ready…