My name is Daniel Fernandes, I am from Portugal and I was born in 1987. I graduated in Genetics and Biotechnology and after that I decided to do something different, EVS. Let’s say, the best option I have ever made in my life! EVS was the most proficient and rich experience in my life until now. I learned many many things that will certainly help me in my future, both in personal and professional levels. The way everything is done in EVS promotes a different method of learning in life by experience and informal methods, which I completely love! I keep saying that everyone should do an EVS or similar experience in their lives.
Initially my project was going to be about Reforestation and Rehabilitation of the zones affected by some huge fires in 2007 but unfortunately it didn’t work so I was incorporated in the brand new Youth Center of Kalamata, together with the volunteers of that project, Totya and Jerónimo. Although in the beginning it was a bit awkward for me, in the end it was fantastic! It was not easy, but that’s what EVS and multiculturalism is about, understanding and respecting other ideas and habits! We helped to build it up, and now that I hear the Youth Center is growing and growing I feel proud! It is like I left a bit of myself there, I will always be connected with that place and that city, those fantastic friends from K.A.NE. and the volunteers (all friends for life), my greek girl, the women from the tirópita’s place, Jimies’ souvlaki, and so many others... Thank you Kalamata, thank you K.A.NE.!!
Now I am doing a master in Human Evolution and Biology, but I keep linked to the Youth-in-Action programme as I am coordinating EVS and Youth Exchanges in my sending organisation.
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