During the event, experts and organisations shared experiences, opinions and knowledge with over 1300 young Europeans who are working to bring positive change on causes that hold a particular importance for young people. Participants were empowered to learn and exchange ideas and best practices in various skill categories, such as communication, advocacy and event organising, to gain skills and experience and take their activism to their next level.

Patricia believes the event is a great learning experience for her and all the European youth involved in social causes. She shared with us some of its highlights: “we have participated to discussions with leaders and representatives, and shared our ideas with them and the other participants on the importance of the European policies and on what the European Union can do to better support the full inclusion of persons with disabilities. We have also discussed inclusion and accessibility at the local level, for instance increasing the number of ramps outside public and private buildings to make them accessible for wheelchair users, accessible pedestrian signals for persons with visual impairments, and devices facilitating access for deaf or visually impaired people”.  

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to share views and ideas for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the political life, and to meet great activists for the rights of persons with disabilities and LGBTQI+ rights from all over Europe!”

Translated by Konstantin Pchelinski

My room floor is cool, of 12 square metres,

And, humpback and mute, supports firmly my bed;

Above, through the window, the rising dawn scatters

Gold o’er the azure sky. But what of that?

What of that, outside, the dew brightly glistens

With drops like small coins all silver and clean,

All flowers are dressed up in colourful laces,

And trees boast their crowns all emerald-green?

What of that women have taken much care

To make their lips ruby-red, with lipstick,

And neatly to comb their reddish-brown hair,

Each hoping to touch her beloved man unique?

When I wake, with my eye-lids half-open, again

Dense fog does veil my eyes thoroughly.

I don’t let my soul cry hotly with pain

For that it this beauty will fail to see.

I surely remember the three questions’ answer

The French pilot’s book full of wisdom imposes

Revealing the truth very simple and clear:

‘Each visible beauty’s but pollen of roses.’

Should I need things, each in various colours,

Now that a rose grows in bloom in my mind,

And, in my head, I’ve a hangar of rockets

All ready to fly to stars and dreams bright?

I don’t think the long workday full of vain matters

Would ease me with sympathy and love for me too.

I leave the protecting-me edge of my mattress,

Inspired by thinking of what I must do.

My cheerful smile reveals my elation.

It’s my kept-up trademark, my medal hard-won

That shows that I, though blind, to Exhaustion,

Will never surrender but fight on and on.

This poetic work was awarded 1st prize in the 14th edition of Sighted Hearts annual competition in poetry broadcast on Hristo Botev Programme of the Bulgarian National Radio on 29 May 2023.

Overcoming Initial Apprehensions:

When I first arrived, I was filled with trepidation. I worried about navigating unfamiliar streets, finding essential services like pharmacies, bus stops, and train stations. However, thanks to the project’s adaptability to my needs, I quickly received assistance in acclimating to my new surroundings. In no time, I became familiar with the daily routes to my workplace, discovered nearby bus stops, and identified convenient amenities such as pharmacies, night shops, and grocery stores.

Guidance and Support:

Throughout the project, I was accompanied by a mobility instructor who offered unwavering support. Her kindness and willingness to assist me with any concerns or questions were truly remarkable. Our mobility sessions were not limited to initial orientation; I continued to seek her guidance to explore new places, such as the gym or the physiotherapy center. Her guidance played a significant role in my ability to become independent and navigate my surroundings with confidence.

Mastering a New Language:

Having a base  in French before arriving in Belgium, I thought I was well-prepared. However, I soon realized that effectively speaking the language required dedicated effort. The locals in Liège predominantly spoke French, and I had to immerse myself in the language from day one. This was essential not only for everyday interactions but also for my work. I am proud of my progress as I can now engage in lengthy conversations on various topics. From my first phrase, “ excusez-moi, c’est quoi le numéro du bus? »  to present-day fluency, it has been a rewarding linguistic journey.

Embracing Inclusion and Building Connections:

The warmth and acceptance I received from my colleagues and students were heartwarming. From the very beginning, they made me feel like an integral part of their community. Working with both the adult group at Baraka, where I was  employed, and the teenage group was an enriching experience. Although my efforts to connect with the adolescents did not yield the same results, I cherished every moment. Wearing the hats of a teacher and an animator allowed me to explore new methods of evaluating students during exams and organizing engaging activities that went beyond raising awareness about blindness.

A New Home, a New Chapter:

Belgium, with its captivating charm, has captured my heart. The friendly atmosphere and the genuine kindness of its people made me feel more supported than ever before. In fact, I made the life-changing decision to permanently relocate to Brussels at the end of April. Despite the chaotic last two months of apartment hunting and moving, I am incredibly satisfied with my choices. Thanks to this project, I am not only in Brussels, but I am also happy, and I have a renewed sense of purpose.

My European Solidarity Corps journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has allowed me to overcome my fears, expand my horizons, and discover the true meaning of inclusion. I fell in love with Belgium, embraced the French language, and found joy in the kindness and support of others. This project has not only shaped my present but also given me direction for my future. As I reflect on this life-changing experience, I am grateful for the opportunity and excited for the new adventures that lie ahead.