by Mrunal from India

🌍 My Journey as an International Volunteer in Germany

My name is Mrunal, and I come from the vibrant city of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. In 2024, I took a leap of faith and moved to Dortmund, Germany, to begin a one-year volunteering journey — an experience that changed my life in more ways than I could have imagined.

🧸 Working in a Kindergarten: Where the Magic Happened

I was placed in a kindergarten, a lively space filled with laughter, play, and learning. At first, everything felt foreign. The language, the culture, even simple daily routines were completely different from what I was used to back home in India. Communication was a huge challenge — especially because I barely spoke German and many people around me didn’t speak English. It was overwhelming, and honestly, a little scary.

But then something beautiful happened. I began to connect. I met some of the most wonderful colleagues and even more amazing children. Despite my limited German, the kids always understood me — sometimes better than adults! Children are magical that way; they communicate with their hearts, and soon, we were talking, laughing, playing, and learning together.

🌐 Living in a Volunteer House: A World Under One Roof

One of the most special parts of my experience was living in a volunteer house with people from four different countries. I gained four incredible friends and countless memories. Our home was filled with stories, cultures, music, food, and laughter from all corners of the world.

Every meal became a cultural exchange. Every conversation sparked new thoughts. We celebrated each other’s festivals, shared life experiences, and grew together. This little house in Dortmund became a symbol of unity in diversity.

🌿 Discovering Germany: Culture, Weather, and Wonder

Germany has its own rhythm — efficient, organized, yet deeply cultural and warm. I got to explore many aspects of German society: how the public transport system works (it’s amazing!), how local politics shape daily life, and what makes the German ecosystem so sustainable and environmentally conscious.

I also experienced my first snowfall — something I had only seen in movies! I remember running outside like a child, feeling the cold flakes on my face, and smiling like never before. Seasons here were intense and magical — from the golden autumn leaves to the freezing, white winters.

✝️ Learning About Christianity and Celebrations

As someone from a Hindu background, I had very little knowledge about Christianity. But during my year in Germany, I got to experience it closely. I learned about Christmas, Easter, and many other traditions and values that form a deep part of German life. Attending church events, singing songs with children, and seeing the joy on everyone’s faces made me appreciate the richness of the faith and culture here.

🧠 Personal Growth: Beyond Language and Culture

The journey wasn’t just about exploring a new country — it was about discovering myself. Living away from home taught me independence, patience, and the importance of adaptability. I became more open-minded, more understanding, and more appreciative of the little things.

I also started learning German — slowly, with many mistakes, but with the help of kids, colleagues, and my flatmates, I made progress. It felt amazing to see how even a few German words could open doors to meaningful connections.

❤️ The Takeaway

This one year of volunteering in Germany was not just a gap year or a project — it was a life chapter. I arrived as a confused newcomer, and I’m leaving as someone deeply enriched by experiences, friendships, and lessons that will stay with me forever.

To anyone out there thinking about volunteering abroad — do it. Step out of your comfort zone. Explore the unknown. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.

Danke, Deutschland. You’ll always have a piece of my heart.