Bericht unserer Freiwilligen Teodora Luketa

While taking part in Erasmus exchange at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, I’ve learned about Friedenskreis for the first time. The guiding principles of the organization inspired me to apply for the voluntary service. Here I am in Halle again, a year after my semester abroad, initially working in growing international cooperation department of the Friedenskreis office. Together with my teammates I already had the opportunity to create a cultural project aimed to support young people in their role in peacebuilding. Within this project I'm able to learn a lot about how NGOs from different countries cooperate. At the same time I utilize my knowledge of comparative literature acquired during studies.

I carry out the tasks I'm assigned, but I'm also getting to know more about Friedenskreis and the activities all of my teammates organise. This makes my work even more fulfilling experience on many different levels. To mention only some activities - I supported the organisation of the Parter conference, took part in the vigils for peace, attended the events and lectures on global justice. On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the establishment of AFŽ (Antifascist  Front of Women of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Yugoslavia), I was able to travel to Berlin to join a tandem workshop and create artistic work together with female artists and activists from Bosnia. It's inspiring to remember that women in Yugoslavia 80 years ago during wartime, despite all adversity, wanted to fight for human rights. Also, experiencing similarities and differences in the field of civic engagement between Bosnia and Germany today directs me towards the possibilities of finding and sharing new knowledge.

It's joyful to spend every day in the Friedenskreis office where colleagues are committed to act for a more equal and just society. It means a lot that my work is valued and trusted by everyone here. When I draw a Venn diagram of what needs doing, what my skills are, and what brings me joy, I can see Friedenskreis is a perfect place for the voluntary service. Furthermore, the teammates are helping me improve my German language skills. It is even more stimulating learning experience when I know that we speak the same language of commitment, mutual respect and solidarity.