The first half of my stay abroad has been a highly enriching and educational experience. I have gained hands-on exposure to social entrepreneurship, project management, and non-formal education, while actively contributing to the ongoing initiatives of the organization. Working closely with the Host Entrepreneur (HE) and the team has allowed me to observe operational structures, participate in decision-making processes, and apply practical skills in both administrative and educational contexts.
During this period, I have been involved in the coordination of internship programs, follow-up with participants abroad, and the development of educational modules such as Art Therapy and YES-SI workshops. One challenge has been balancing multiple tasks simultaneously, especially when administrative responsibilities intersect with educational facilitation. Additionally, establishing and maintaining contacts with partner organizations abroad has required persistent effort and adaptation to different communication styles and institutional practices.
Overall, I feel that the objectives of the program are being met. I have strengthened my leadership and project management skills, gained experience in facilitating educational activities, and contributed to communication and visibility efforts for the organization. I have also begun to apply my background in mediation, international relations, and cross-cultural approaches, adding value to the team’s projects.
To maximize the impact of the remaining months, I believe an extension of the collaboration would be beneficial. This would allow me to consolidate ongoing projects, complete the development of educational modules and facilitation guides, and deepen my engagement with funding and networking activities. Additionally, a more structured calendar for workshops and project deadlines could help optimize time management and ensure that all planned activities are fully realized.
I have learned the importance of flexibility, proactive communication, and multitasking in a dynamic work environment. Collaborating with an experienced team has highlighted best practices in project design, financial planning, and educational facilitation. Furthermore, observing the HE’s approach to mentoring and management has provided valuable models that I can apply in my own future projects.
The first half of my stay has been extremely valuable in advancing both my professional and personal development. I look forward to applying the lessons learned, completing ongoing projects, and further contributing to the organization’s initiatives in the second half of my exchange.