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Heidi Letizia Friese’s Volunteering Journey in Morocco: Education, Solidarity and Intercultural Learning
From 15 May to 16 September 2026, Heidi Letizia Friese, a volunteer from Germany, participated in the STARRY – Solidarity Targeted Activities Run by Rising Youth Humanitarian Aid Project, funded by the European Union, in Jerada, Morocco.
Hosted by Association Isaaf Jerada Solidarité et Développement, with Asociación Building Bridges as the sending organisation and EPEKA as the coordinating organisation, Heidi contributed to educational, recreational and community-based activities while gaining valuable intercultural and professional experience.
Supporting Children and Young People Through Education
Throughout her volunteering experience, Heidi actively participated in educational activities at Al Wafae and Laouinate schools, where she supported French language lessons and organised recreational activities, including group games and outdoor activities.
At the local community centre, she worked with children and young people through English lessons, arts and crafts, creative activities and educational games. She also contributed to a workshop addressing violence against children, supporting awareness-raising efforts within the community.
Community Engagement and Women’s Activities
Heidi’s involvement extended beyond classroom activities. In Hassi Bilal, she participated in weekly sports sessions for women, including aerobics and football.
She also supported summer camp activities, engaging children through group activities, songs and recreational programmes.
These experiences allowed her to interact with different community groups and contribute to the centre’s ongoing educational and social activities.
Contributing to Humanitarian Aid Preparations
An important component of the volunteering project involved preparations for educational and psychosocial support activities intended for children affected by the earthquake in Morocco.
During her placement in Jerada, Heidi participated in the project’s preparatory phase, which focused on developing and adapting educational approaches and activity materials.
Although her volunteering period ended before the implementation phase in the earthquake-affected areas, her experience provided opportunities to develop practical skills in non-formal education and working with children.
A Journey of Personal and Professional Growth
For Heidi, volunteering in Morocco was also an opportunity for intercultural exchange and personal development.
Working alongside volunteers from different countries and interacting with the local community helped her strengthen her intercultural communication skills, adaptability and confidence.
She improved her French language skills, learned basic Darija and gained further experience designing and facilitating educational activities for children of different ages.
The experience also reinforced her interest in the non-governmental sector and non-formal education, areas in which she planned to continue her professional career after returning home.
Building Solidarity Across Borders
Heidi’s volunteering experience highlights the value of international solidarity, community engagement and intercultural learning.
Through educational and recreational activities, she contributed to the daily work of the local community centre while developing skills and perspectives that will continue to support her personal and professional journey.
We sincerely thank Heidi for her contribution to the STARRY project and wish her every success in her future endeavours!
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