Still hesitating to participate in this project? Go for it! You’ll come away enriched, with unforgettable memories and friendships.

Who am I?

My name is Clélia, and I’m from Limoges, a small city in west-central France. I joined this project to step outside my comfort zone, discover a new culture, improve my English, develop my creativity, and meet new people.

I have a Master’s degree in Communication, but I felt lost and without purpose. So, I wanted to challenge myself and explore a new professional project, surrounded by children and creativity. The Elf Around project was perfect for me.

My role in the project

I contributed to the design and creation of the Elf Trail. We started by working together, sharing our ideas to come up with original activities. I also painted elves made from recycled wood and helped decorate the trail with various reclaimed materials. For the music activity, we built instruments from tin cans and Pringles cans, creating drums and rainsticks.

What struck me most was the ingenuity and creativity of each participant. Working together to transform simple materials into playful and artistic experiences was incredibly rewarding.

What I learned

This project taught me to push my limits, reach out to others, and strengthen my self-confidence.

I discovered how unique each person is, but above all, how generosity and kindness can transform a group. Through everyone’s stories and experiences, I learned to live fully in the present moment, with love and resilience.

My growth

I gained confidence and learned to face challenges with courage.

At first, I struggled to express myself in public, in both English and French. Little by little, by getting to know others, with listening and kindness, I was able to open up, create strong bonds, and overcome my fears. Each small success gave me the energy to move forward.

I’ve always been very emotional and empathetic, but this project showed me that it wasn’t a weakness. I now love cultivating and sharing this sensitivity with children. I also understood how much we can learn from them: their resilience and innocence invite us to put things into perspective, let go, and enjoy every moment.

Memorable Moment

There were many moving moments, but the one that touched me the most was the children’s departure after welcoming them along the way. Their innocence, their smiles, and their affection for the project deeply moved me. Some were shy or quiet, but their eyes and gestures reflected genuine wonder.

It was a powerful reminder that every person matters, that this project is a gift for them… and for us. I am grateful to have been able to contribute to these moments.

With this short-term project, I didn’t expect to make friends so quickly.

Even though the language barrier or differences can sometimes complicate communication, we are close-knit and supportive, so it’s easy to forge genuine connections.

Why this project matters

This project transforms our perceptions and enriches our values. Everyone brings something to it: love, friendship, joy, laughter. It’s a unique space for sharing and learning, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of all who participate.

Author: Clélia from France

Clélia took part in an ESC team volunteering project called Elf Around in november-december 2025, where volunteers build an Elf path and organized activites for kindergarden children. The project is funded by the European Union.