Cultural Immersion - My journey of discovery in Germany with Ecoselva e.V.
I am Pallavi Thakur and since December 2022, I experience a wonderful journey in Germany with the weltwärts-programe as a volunteer for Ecoselva e.V.
Moving from a small mountain Indian town to another country may not be a walk in the park. For example, different forms of humor, dialects or cultures can sometimes make a person feel out of place among their peers. Nevertheless, I can categorize it among the best things that I have ever done!
Eye-opening idea
I am currently based in Sankt Augustin where I am working on research in the bioregion of Europe. My educational background includes tourism, so it would be appropriate for me to work for Ecoselva, whose mission is to promote eco-social initiatives in India, Peru and the Dominican Republic. In addition, my father is a farmer, so I can bring my knowledge to the organisation.
The next stop on my journey was Andreas Eggensberger's Biohotel Eggensberger, where I spent two months researching an organic hotel. This allowed me to understand how an organic hotel is run, why and what it takes to run a well-functioning organic hotel, and how to involve local farmers and the hospitality industry to create a niche market.
In addition, I also had an experience that went beyond just the office while working at an organic apple farm of Mr. Aloysius Knein in Düren. In other words, it was here that I learnt on organic apple growing, had company with alpacas and did some berried picking. The encounters were insightful and provided me with an education and set of tools which I intend utilizing in my native land and help the society of farmers.
Building bridges between two worlds
In my capacity as coordinator for weltwärts festival, I made sure that everyone could share whatever they wanted. It was an exceptional outdoor German festival that featured music and fellowship. Music and friendship proved a successful formula for organizing a popular cross-cultural festival with an outspoken attitude towards life.
Between tradition and a second home
No matter where I go in the world, Germany, a country which feels like home to me, will always be close to my heart. This connection has always been based on the deepest difference between cultures that I have faced up. Staying with my host family in Germany exposed me to the intricacies of the German language. Conversing with Germans, whether in lighthearted chit-chat or profound discussions, deepened my connection with the local culture. It was through these interactions that I bridged the gap between two worlds, making me feel more at home in Germany.
However, one of the most thrilling and novel experiences was being a part of the vibrant Carnival in Köln. The atmosphere was electric, with people dressed in a multitude of costumes, creating a lively and festive vibe. The electric atmosphere, with people adorned in a myriad of costumes, created a lively and festive vibe.
My time in Germany went beyond a simple volunteer experience. My volunteering at Ecoselva e.V., Germany will be forever imprinted in my heart and soul. It was a transformative journey that allowed me to absorb the cultural tapestry of this wonderful country. I am deeply grateful to Ecoselva, the German Ministry, and Gram Disha Trust (my Indian organization) for this opportunity.
