When I joined Moja Mavrica, a whole new world opened up to me

Until I started university, I had grown up in a small town where unfortunately communities like this are not present. It was only after moving to Ljubljana that I became aware of how many smaller NGOs exist and how diverse their work is. I knew I wanted to be part of something like that, but I needed an extra push to actually take that step.

In my second year, when it was time to find a student internship, I saw it as an opportunity to become involved in a community I had been longing for. What I did not expect was that the right opportunity would come on its own.

It was a Monday morning and we had a leczure. During the break, my classmate approached me and said: “They have stickers at the student office!” I followed her without hesitation. There, I met Michelle and a group of interns who were presenting their organization at our faculty. From the first interaction, I felt the warmth, openness and welcoming energy that they radiated. I took a few stickers, and they told me I could apply for an internship with them. At that moment, I felt there was no need to continue searching. The right place had already found me.

It has now been six months since I joined Moja Mavrica, and during this time, my perspective has broadened significantly. I became part of a community that offers me a strong sense of belonging and a new outlook.

One of the most memorable experiences was participating in an Erasmus+ project focused on innovative practices of active citizenship. During this project, I took part in my first street action, where we engaged passersby in conversations about stereotypes and social inequalities. We also created a “game of life” to encourage reflection on opportunities that are often taken for granted, such as access to education.

Working with participants from different European countries, we explored – through workshops, discussions, and a range of creative activities – how individuals can contribute to positive social change.

What I particularly value about this project, as well as my work at Mavrica in general, is the diversity of activities. Some are creative, others involve movement, while some are more discussion-based or educational. This variety suits me well, as it allows me to express myself in different ways, develop new skills, and connect with a wide range of people.

I also appreciate the opportunity that I’m able to contribute to thematically diverse projects, as I am curious by nature and motivated to keep learning. At the same time, I am given a significant level of independence, which encourages responsibility while allowing space for initiative and personal development.

Since joining Mavrica, I have come to see community as foundation of human experience. It is something I now consider essential, and something I cannot imagine my future without. This experience has gone beyond a student internship; it has had a lasting impact on how I see my purpose and direction going forward.