Tornike Glurjidze is a Georgian volunteer who joined in Kokkola, Finland, at Villa Elbaand carried out his short-term European Solidarity Corps project funded by the European Solidarity Corps programme of the European Union. Read more about his experience below:

“Participating in a short-term volunteering project abroad through the European Solidarity Corps was a truly meaningful and heartwarming experience for me. Even though it lasted only a month and a half, the project left a deep impact on my personal growth, worldview, and understanding of community. I volunteered in Kokkola, Finland, at Villa Elba — a place surrounded by nature, creativity, and a strong sense of togetherness.

At Villa Elba, our main focus was creating a magical Elf Path for kindergarten children. We worked on building playful installations, decorating the forest with lights, preparing Christmas decorations, and organizing small games and activities that brought joy and imagination to the children. Seeing their excitement, curiosity, and pure happiness as they explored the Elf Path was incredibly rewarding. It reminded me how powerful simple ideas can be when they are created with care and teamwork.

The project required creativity, cooperation, and flexibility. Each day was different — sometimes we were crafting decorations, other days planning activities, or setting up lights outdoors in the cold Finnish winter. Through this process, I learned how to work effectively in a group, adapt to new situations, and contribute my ideas while respecting others’. Even small tasks felt meaningful because they were part of something larger: creating joy for children.

Living together with volunteers from many different countries was another unforgettable part of the experience. For a month and a half, we shared daily life, responsibilities, conversations, and laughter with people of different nationalities, cultures, and perspectives. We cooked together, talked about our home countries, shared traditions, and learned from one another. This multicultural environment helped me become more open-minded, patient, and understanding.

The European Solidarity Corps program itself played a huge role in making this experience possible. ESC is not just about volunteering — it is about solidarity, learning, and connection. It creates a safe space where young people can contribute to local communities while also developing personally and socially. Through this program, I felt supported, encouraged, and motivated to give my best.

Kokkola, with its calm atmosphere and close connection to nature, offered a peaceful contrast to busy everyday life. Walking through forests, working outdoors, and living at a slower pace helped me reflect, recharge, and appreciate the present moment more deeply.

This volunteering experience showed me how meaningful community work can be and how much growth can happen in a short amount of time. I leave this project with new skills, beautiful memories, international friendships, and a stronger belief in the value of solidarity and cultural exchange. It is an experience I will always carry with me.”.