Summer Week Event is one of the most sought after activities, which is happening every year in the beautiful Island of Sardinia, Italy. It is a fundraising event organized by the non-governmental organization I belong to, TDM 2000 and is participated by over a hundred of people coming from all parts of the world. This year’s activity included meeting new people, boat trips, beach hopping, going to global village Gesico, parties and a whiff of cultural activities then and there. Details of the events is posted on my blogs Nothing But Pure Fun at International Summer Week 2016 (ISW2016) and How Do You have Fun in International Summer Week 2016 (ISW2016).
I am lucky to be part of this year’s International Summer Week with all those fun-filled activities and learning at the same time. I am here in Italy as a volunteer under the EuroAsi Project of TDM 2000. Not only did I experience fun but I also learned a lot from the event. I made some posters, decors and did some errands needed in ISW. I’m one of those staff who welcomed other participants at the airport and helped them with the things they need on their way to the hostel. These didn’t bother me at all because I love extending my hand to those of who are in need, even small things. What did I get in return for these petty favors? I got free trips to the stunning beaches around Sardinia, visit other touristy places, met other people, got a taste of delicious local food most of all, the priceless experiences and memories and gaining personal development and self –awareness.
I was compelled to talk during the ISW 2016. And for the not-so-social-person that I am, that was an overwhelming experience for me talk with so many people in front of me. For an introvert like me, speaking publicly and socializing for at least 20 hours a day is kinda new to me. I am amazed at myself that I was able to talk to a lot of people of different race and culture, tossing aside timidness and shyness (always mistaken for being a snub back in my town) and learn from them in a way or another. I know that I have still had a long way to go but confident that I am in the right path to discover more of myself and the world.
My idea of work before was getting serious about it, forget other things and concentrate on the deadline to the point of stressing myself just to get it done. But the ISW taught me otherwise. I learned how to have fun while working, let loose and interact with other people. My life turned 360 degrees different from what I used to do and realized that the key to have a fulfilling work / success is to relax and find balance in myself and the situation I am in.
If you know you did your role and assigned task as to the best you can do, then you can relax and then have fun.
I know some people would question my decision to accept volunteering jobs when I have stable and good paying job in the Philippines. Well, this is not just an ordinary volunteer work; first of all, not all were given a chance to go to Italy and make such unique memories as fun as the ISW. Likewise, my experiences made me become a little more sociable and sensitive especially working with other people who have different background, culture and work orientation. It taught me how to be more flexible and adjust to new situation especially when you’re in a foreign land. Also, the shifting of my role – from being a manager (back in my workplace) to being a volunteer- directed me to become more humble as well as picked up some good practices of how to become a leader and follower.
On a lighter note, I can’t believe I survived the drinking and parties almost every night, unscathed and sober. Now, that’s what you call balance, social life and work, and booze in between. ISW 2016 is more than just the drinking and parties, it’s also about self-discovery, learning to adapt and experience other cultures and of course, making things most out of everything.
Anahaw Cahilig – EVS volunteer from Philippines