Ana Maisuradze is a Georgian volunteer who joined Progetto Zattera Blu in Italy carried out her long-term European Solidarity Corps project funded by the European Solidarity Corps programme of the European Union. Read more about her experience below:

“Hi There, this is Ana. Have you ever thought about leaving your comfort zone to follow something without knowing exactly what you’ll get in return? If yes — or even if not — keep reading. There are places you need to explore and experiences you need to try, and ESC can be the bridge to that journey.

While testing my skills, patience, and searching for inspiration, ESC opened doors for me in Italy. I worked with migrants and people struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, supporting them through daily activities, creative workshops, and shared moments of connection. Along the way, I met wonderful people, discovered intercultural treasures, shared laughter with local friends, and even found the best gelato while exploring art and architecture.

This experience taught me empathy, adaptability, and the value of human connection. Volunteering through ESC showed me that growth happens when you step into the unknown — and that giving and learning always go hand in hand”.