I started my CISV journey at 11 when I went to my very first Village. It changed everything for me; the way I saw the world, the way I saw other people and the way I saw myself. I joined many programmes, became a staff and later a trainer. I even had the chance to see the behind the scenes of CISV as a global volunteer, which made me realize how many inspiring people are part of making CISV. They live their life differently, but we have also have things in common, because we all live the CISV lifestyle – curious, open, caring, restless, amazed and inspired.

My CISV experience started when I was 11 and went to a Village in Norway. I didn’t speak English at that time and wasn’t really sure what I was getting myself into.  Now 23 years old, after a Village, a Summer Camp and a Seminar Camp, combined with my involvement in Junior Branch (JB), I can safely say that CISV helped me develop into the person I am today. It showed me the huge impact that sharing and talking to other individuals, from different countries and cultures other than your own, can have on someone. CISV’s educational approach and dedication to youth is what keeps me motivated and willing to stay highly involved. Today, I share the energy and dynamism of JBers around the world – from whom I am lucky to learn every day – and truly feel I am part of a global movement.

CISV has given me confidence and skills that are marketable to prospective employers. Not only has CISV opened the door to rich and diverse relationships that have helped me grow as a person, it has also given me direct access to other cultures and languages that have expanded my interpersonal repertoire. Furthermore, my integrity as a leader is clearly visible to employers when they realize others find me trustworthy and reliable enough to take a group of children across the globe for a month.

Being a CISV volunteer helped me get my dream job! I had my first experience as a volunteer in 2015. In 2016, France was hosting the Euro Cup and I dreamed of working with the organization. I was so excited when I found a job opportunity to escort children who would hold the players hands before the game. In my interview, I spoke about my experience as a leader. I was thrilled when I got the job!

Professionally, being a CISV leader has had many unexpected benefits. I have used CISV conflict resolution techniques and activities with clients that work better than what I learned in my professional training. I’ve lost all fear of speaking in public, and I can think and employ Risk Management best practices anywhere and at any time. It is easy for me to connect with other people. I empathize quickly with people because I understand their background a little better.

Being a volunteer with CISV was a great opportunity for personal growth. It not only taught me how to be more responsible, but also to be accountable for my actions. Because of CISV’s global network, I worked with a lot of different people and personalities. This helped me improve the way I interacted with colleagues at work.