A dive into a fascinating culture
When I decided to go to Lima, Peru, as a volunteer with the IBCR, I knew I was about to embark on a unique experience. However, nothing could have prepared me for the intensity of the challenges, the cultural richness I would discover, or the deep impact this journey would have on both my career and personal perspective.
Arriving in Lima felt like getting into a vibrant world of colors, flavors, and traditions. Peruvian culture is fascinating, rooted in Andean and Spanish heritage, and every interaction was an opportunity to learn. From traditional music played in the streets to iconic dishes like ceviche and causa limeña, every day was a new discovery.
However, this cultural immersion came with its own set of challenges. Working in Spanish required a lot of courage and resilience. The first few weeks were full of misunderstandings and moments of frustration, but as I got used to the local accent and enriched my vocabulary, my confidence increased. This experience allowed me to improve my language skills while building deeper bonds with my colleagues.
Engaging at the heart of COMETA’s mission
As a volunteer in organizational management with the local organization COMETA, I was directly involved in their actions to realize the rights of children and young people. Simply observing their enthusiasm for their mission was inspiring. Co-facilitating workshops with young people was a memorable experience. Watching their energy and curiosity turn into deep reflections on their role in society was incredibly rewarding. While some participants, especially the more reserved ones, needed extra encouragement to speak up, it taught me the importance of creating an inclusive space where everyone feels safe to share their ideas.
Supporting COMETA in developing their strategic plan and fundraising initiatives also allowed me to apply my project management and strategic planning skills in a completely new context. Working in a cross-cultural environment required constant adaptability. Understanding their priorities and aligning my contributions with their specific needs was a challenging but incredibly formative exercise. Observing team dynamics, participating in psychoeducation training sessions, and discovering how the organization addresses local challenges gave me a new and valuable perspective.
Personal growth through challenges
Each day brought its own lessons, often unexpected. For instance, I found myself juggling various tasks, from logistical planning to taking notes in strategic meetings. These experiences, though scattered, gave me a comprehensive view of the inner workings of the organization. Linguistic challenges, differences in time management, and the organization’s unique needs constantly pushed me out of my comfort zone. This not only helped me enhance my professional skills but also grow personally.
Beyond the technical aspects, what will stay with me the most is the warmth and hospitality of the COMETA team. Integrating into a new professional culture in a foreign country is never easy, but the openness and support from my colleagues made me feel at home. I met passionate and dedicated people, and their stories and experiences enriched me far beyond what I could have imagined.
A personal and professional transformation
This experience not only strengthened my skills and broadened my perspective but also revived my commitment to causes that matter to me. Working in a cross-cultural environment, collaborating with inspiring people and adapting to unique challenges consolidated my determination to pursue a career focused on development and social impact. Lima will remain for me much more than just a destination: it symbolizes a crucial milestone in both my personal and professional journey.
Interested by international volunteering?
Find out more about our open mandates
KEEP ME INFORMED OF UPCOMING VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
Voluntary cooperation program funded by Global Affairs Canada.
