JAKE (U.K.)

Volunteered From OCTOBER 2020 TO MARCH 2020

2021 I would usually start by talking about how I found the Habibi Center, but in actual fact it found me. The welcoming world of volunteering Facebook groups allows for spontaneous connections and as soon as Steph popped up in my messages, it felt like fate. The friendly skype call included a tour of the school with the fabulous artwork scattered across the walls and heart-warming decorative messages. I was enticed and booked my flight instantly. My first team meeting introduced me to the professional but flexible process of the teaching schedule. It was the perfect balance between experienced structure and the freedom to direct lessons in the best way a teacher sees fit. As a relatively unqualified teacher I never felt uncomfortable or out of place due to the astonishing support from all the team. The Center lies in the bustling heart of Athens with an environment of warmth, history, culture, and an exciting unique way of life. The predominant aspect that I take away from my experience is the marvellous nature of the students. You will never have been in a classroom with such energy, enthusiasm, focus and determination to learn. Steph and Alex’s phenomenal method of organising classes depending on language levels and student’s personality means every class is perfect for each individual students’ development. However, after a week of teaching, Greece was thrown into a second lockdown and our teaching moved online. But, apart from the nature of the classes, nothing else changed. The eagerness of the students endured, and I received vast assistance and help adjusting to this new way of education. After nearly 5 months of online lessons, I have developed a durable bond with my students that is unbreakable. Thanks to the Habibi Center I have more substantial knowledge into teaching, the complexity of running an NGO, and a general awareness of myself. I am in debt to Steph, Alex, Camille, Israe, Edward, Ester, and Tim for joining me throughout my journey, and providing vital friendships during the challenges of the pandemic. There is no doubt I will reunite with the Habibi Center in the near future and re-join the family I’ve sadly left.