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Our French volunteer Khaoula Hajji completed her 10-month service in Sarajevo within our European Solidarity Corps Humanitarian Aid project “HAND”, funded by the European Commission and coordinated by EPEKA, supported by our Irish partner Viatores Christi Company Limited by Guarantee (VC) and hosted by our Bosnian partner Bosnian Representative Association for Valuable Opportunities (BRAVO).
Khaoula was deployed in the temporary reception centers for refugees and migrants in Blazuj and Usivak. Her tasks were highly versatile. She was assigned to various tasks depending on the needs of the centers. Her linguistic skills (French, Arabic, and English) allowed her to take on specific responsibilities, such as assisting with the registration process. Throughout these months, Khaoula contributed to several areas: – Assisting with the registration of refugees and migrants upon their arrival, ensuring accurate records and smooth communication. – Helping in the warehouse by cleaning, organizing supplies, and preparing “welcome packages” for new arrivals. – Participating in cleaning efforts within the centers to maintain a safe and hygienic environment. This versatility enabled her to gain a holistic understanding of the operations in the reception centers and to address immediate needs efficiently.
Even though the population of the centers fluctuated constantly with individuals and families often staying for brief periods, her contributions had a tangible impact. She facilitated communication between staff members and the target group, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring smoother interactions. By preparing “welcome packages” and assisting with registration, she helped create a sense of organization and care for newcomers, which could be crucial in such vulnerable contexts. Even small gestures, like taking the time to listen to their stories or answering questions in their native language, seemed to bring comfort and ease during a challenging time in their lives.
This experience profoundly changed her on multiple levels. She became more resilient and adaptable. Facing unexpected situations daily taught her to think on her feet and remain calm under pressure. She developed greater empathy and patience, learning to communicate effectively across cultural and linguistic barriers. These skills are invaluable for building trust and understanding in diverse environments. Immersing herself in a multicultural setting broadened her perspective. She gained a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by refugees and migrants and the complexities of humanitarian work.
We would like to thank Khaoula for all her dedication in her work during her activity.
