Flora of Finland 10.7.-23.7.2023

For two weeks, the volunteers of "Flora of Finland" got to experience the beautiful landscapes of Punkaharju. The 12 volunteers got to learn about finnish nature and culture! 🌍 We asked the volunteers to describe their experience:

"I'm happy that I had a chance to observe how Finns coexist with each other and with nature - it gave me a lot to think about the importance of collaboration. I'm also glad that the project was located among the forests, near to Saimaa Lake, because being close to nature, without all of the city noise, was really calming and created a space for self-reflection." - Marita 

"This was my first project, but you guys made me feel like i was much more experienced, you made me feel so comfortable that i could just be the same way as i am at home, doing stupid things, opening myself with some of you etc.  From this project i have learnt to be more confident with people, to jump into the void and try everything, because the things that you regret the most aren't the ones that you failed, the worst are the ones that you didnt try.  

I take with me a little part from all of you that taught me a lot of different things, i hope we can meet up in a near future because i am going to miss you all. I ❤️ Punkaharju <33" - Hugo

"The place, with these people and this environment, was magical. Being so close to nature and learning so much about it made me feel very lucky!" - Juliette

"From the moment I set foot in this picturesque Nordic country, I was overwhelmed by its natural beauty, warm-hearted people, and a sense of community that ran deep. During our time there, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in Finnish culture and among others we became experts in sauna! I will forever cherish the time spent in Finland and carry its lessons with me on my journey of making the world a better place!"            - Stavros

"Getting to experience how Finnish people see and respect nature and organize themselves locally to support such important environmental initiatives was very insightful and inspiring!" - Jelena

"Every moment spent in close contact with nature, combined with the rich tapestry of multicultural experiences that we experienced, has made this journey truly one-of-a-kind, and I will forever cherish it. 🌿🌏" - Inês

"I think the fact we were living in a literal Finnish Barbie house in one of the most beautiful places in Finland says a lot about how lucky we are as young Europeans to experience such an amazing project like the European Solidarity Corps. Helping out in the community, exploring Finnish nature, getting to know the school and its amazing students and teachers - it was all a very pink and wonderful dream." - Monta

"This project was very special to me, not only because of the place, but most importantly because of the people:) I learned so much about disconnecting from the rest of the world and enjoying the present and made many friends for life, while getting to know more about topics that are very interesting to me, especially Nature. I´m very thankful to everyone who made this experience possible and so perfect ❤" -Mariana

Interested in joining an ESC project in Finland? Read more about our opportunities here!