Through the lens of volunteer Tomás – Welcome Week for ESC Volunteers at CABUWAZI (16–22 September)
Every March and September, CABUWAZI welcomes a new group of enthusiastic volunteers from around the world as part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). During their service at CABUWAZI they support our 6 circus locations across Berlin. These volunteers bring their diverse talents and enthusiasm, helping us strengthen our mission to offer a safe, inclusive space where young people can express themselves and grow through the art of circus.
Among our current volunteers is Tomás Sapia, who joined in March 2024 and contributed his skills in photography, videography, and writing to document several ESC projects, capturing the dedication and commitment of everyone involved, the vibrant spirit of our community, showcasing the diversity and creativity that define CABUWAZI.
The documentations of Tomás spanned a variety of exciting events and projects, each offering a unique experience for our voluntering participants. Read the about his impression of one of the year’s highlights – the Welcome Week for ESC Volunteers (16–22 September). Tomás’s thoughtful documentation, including a captivating video, showcased the energy and excitement of this special week. This weeklong event introduced new volunteers to our vibrant community, offering them a chance to meet their teams, explore our mission, and begin their journey with CABUWAZI.
I was lucky to participate again in the welcome week for new volunteers at CABUWAZI, this time with the goal of documenting the experience through audiovisual recording. During those days, I met people from different parts of the world, including Peru, Italy, Serbia, Palestine, and Argentina. For me, as an Argentine who has been living abroad for a year and a half, it was very special to reconnect with Julieta, a new member from Argentina. Sharing mate with her made me feel at home, reminding me of the customs that accompany me and enjoying the same language and ways we share.
The week was filled with fun and enriching activities. We rode our bikes around Berlin, explored the different CABUWAZI tents, and got to know each other better through various dynamics. One of the highlights was our visit to a nearby forest, where we disconnected from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoyed a walk in nature. Even though I’m already familiar with the green spaces Berlin has to offer, it’s always refreshing to return to those places that allow us to escape the urban chaos and reconnect with tranquility.
This welcome week not only helped me build connections with other volunteers, but also reminded me of my own arrival in Berlin when everything was new and exciting. CABUWAZI is a safe and welcoming place where new volunteers can start their adventure with confidence. The warmth of the environment made me feel like part of a community, a home away from home, where every little gesture and activity allowed me to revive my roots and connect with my Latin American customs.
In summary, my participation in this welcome week was an incredibly enriching experience. I not only had the opportunity to share and build bonds with others, but I also documented unique moments that reflect the vibrant spirit of CABUWAZI. I am very grateful for the chance to contribute with my perspective and my audiovisual work, helping to capture the essence of this beautiful community.
– Tomás Sapia
