Get to know our ESC volunteers - Sophie

Where are you from?

I'm from Berlin, Germany.

What is your training or background in circus or the arts?

Before I came to Ireland, I was a member of a youth circus in Berlin. I trained there for 12 years where my interest in contemporary circus manifested itself. I also did a few youth exchanges with my circus and had the opportunity to get to know some circus artists and the chance to see different circus performances as well as perform myself.

What made you want to volunteer at Galway Community Circus?

I became aware of Galway Community Circus through the international youth and social circus network Caravan and then researched more about it. The goals and valuesof Galway Community Circus convinced me to apply.

Who is your sending organisation? Tell us about them.

My sending organization is Circus Cabuwazi in Germany, which is also a youth circus where you can train and perform. They have a similar concept to Galway Community Circus where they are inclusive and try to connect people through circus.

What do you love about working with Galway Community Circus?

I like the atmosphere, the people and the variations of tasks. They offer you a lot of freedom to share your ideas with them. You also get to know a lot of people with different backgrounds and nationalities. It never gets boring.

What projects are you working on at the circus and what results do you hope to achieve?

I worked on a project with a fellow European Solidarity Corps volunteer where we designed cards that show how to do different tricks on circus props, to help the young people and tutors in classes. I'm also helping with the Circus Library, where Youth Circus members can borrow circus props and learn tricks with the assistance of tutorial videos. The self-learning of the different props will hopefully encourage young people to try and learn new things.

What do you love about Ireland?

I especially love the nature of Ireland; it is diverse with the mountains and the sea. But also, the people are very friendly.

What are a few important things you have learned while volunteering with Galway Community Circus?

Through one of my French roommates, I learned a few French dessert recipes like crepes or Éclair. It's the first time I moved out of my parents’ house and to another country. These circumstances have helped me grow personally. I have also improved a lot of circus skills. I started to juggle, learnt a few new aerial hoop tricks and continued with contortion.

What is one thing you love about circus in general?

Through circus you gain freedom to try things out. It is a way to express emotions, and it offers a balance to other areas of life.

Why do you think a programme like European Solidarity Corps is important?

I think it’s an important because it allows you to be able to exchange ideas with other people. You will not only get to know the culture of the country in which you are volunteering, but also the cultures of the other volunteers. In addition, the programme offers the opportunity to improve your language skills and work on yourself.

Would you recommend that other people apply to volunteer at organisations through the European Solidarity Corps programme? Why?

I would advise anyone to participate in the European Solidarity Corps programme. It offers many opportunities to connect with people and build a network. You also gain a lot of experience that will help you in your development.

You can learn more about the European Solidarity Corps here or visit the European Solidarity Corps page on our website for more information.