Tsira Purtseladze is a Georgian volunteer who carries out her long-term European Solidarity Corps project funded by Erasmus + in France. Read what she says about her experience:

”Hello, I’m Tsira, 24 years old, from Georgia. I am honored to be a representative of my country in France. Having obtained my Bachelor’s degree in International Economics and worked in the field for some time, I chose to pursue my interests in poetry, photography, art, and literature. This explains why I decided to contribute to the Poetry Association of Normandy in Rouen. For me, the most meaningful aspect is meeting and cooperating with outstanding people who encourage me to create, write, and document interesting events, as well as to believe in myself. It is an ever-growing period, and as time goes by, I embrace it more and more, attempting to gain knowledge as much as possible.

I admire the French sense of patriotism, their devotion to art, their language, and labor rights. Each fresh sunrise appears to invite you to create and work hard so that it will be appreciated. Some facts surpassed my expectations, such as how the atmosphere is adjusted to individual needs to make daily life more time-efficient and growth-oriented. In terms of my workplace, each new poetry evening, each new resident artist, and the interactions with staff of all ages provide sophisticated, fascinating, and motivating experiences. I’m astonished at how eagerly I await the workdays to return to my new family of the poetry house. I studied French for two years in Georgia, but this chance has substantially increased my understanding of the language in just two months.

Living in a European environment means recognizing each worker’s potential fairly, supporting them, and upholding agreements. I consider myself fortunate to be learning how to live in it. When I met other volunteers from European Union countries, I was miserable that I couldn’t see my country on the map, but delighted to be there, spreading Georgian culture, holding our flag next to the European Union flag, deeply believing in the nearest changes for the better.” – Tsira Purtseladze