5263(I)_From A to Z and S inbetween

Cagliero Project Volunteer: Australia, Zambia, Samoa

November 30, 2019

By Lauren Hichaaba
Delegate for Mission Animation
Director of The Cagliero Project

Melbourne, Australia, 30 November 2019 -- Ellen Hogbin is a unique volunteer within the Cagliero Project as she has undertaken two volunteer experiences in Zambia with the FMA and Samoa with the SDBs. She has also worked as an employee of the Salesians of Don Bosco in the Australia Pacific Province. She has been such a wonderful addition to all the communities where she has volunteered and has undergone real growth in her Salesian journey. Here are some insights about her experiences:

1. Please describe your volunteer experience.

I was privileged to be part of The Cagliero Project in 2018 and again in 2019. In 2018 I volunteered in Zambia, Mazabuka at the City of Joy. The City of Joy is a home for at-risk and vulnerable girls run by the Salesian Sisters. My responsibilities at City of Joy were to help support the girls who lived there, with their studies and everyday tasks. As well as being a role model and support network for them. I also ran the Oratory for the local community, which took place almost every day and I taught a local Ballet/Dance class. In 2019 I volunteered in Samoa, Upolu. Where I lived with the Salesian community at Don Bosco Technical School. I spent time teaching at Don Bosco pre-school, as well as Don Bosco Technical School. I also enjoyed assisting the brothers with work at the parishes and with their fundraiser events and Sunday schools.

2. What was one of the greatest joys of the experience?

One of the greatest joys I experienced was creating strong relationships with young people. Sharing moments of joy and happiness with them is an incredible experience. When a young person finally achieves one of their goals, which you have supported them along their way to achieve,through the hard times as they sometimes struggle with the tasks ahead, but when they finally achieve it, it’s quite amazing to share in that experience.

3. What was the one of the biggest challenges of the experience?

One of the biggest challenge’s was to be flexible with working with all different types of people from all over the world. During my time volunteering I was privileged to work with a number of different people however with that came challenges as everyone has their own working style and their own core values. Sometimes it can be a challenge to work with or around people who are very different to you but through understanding and respect this challenge becomes smaller and smaller. I also found it challenging when it was my time to leave to say goodbye to the community that I had been part of for so long. You make such strong connections with the people and their way of life, you can be heartbreaking when you leave. Although it is hard, I find it easier to think you’re not saying goodbye you’re just saying see you later and you will return to your wider family another day.

4. Describe one thing you learned from your volunteer experience.

I learnt not to give up even when things seem impossible and incredibly challenging. To keep trying and not to lose hope. Most importantly when you’re passionate about something you will find the resilience you need.

5. How has this experience impacted your life journey?

Both my experiences have impacted my life’s journey in so many ways. It has given me courage to step out of my comfort zone and to give new experiences a go. It reminds me I can achieve so much more than I thought I could. Volunteering has opened my eyes to a whole new way of life. But most importantly it’s assures me that my vocation is to work with youth and those in need of support.

6. What does Don Bosco mean to you after this experience?

What can the message of Don Bosco offer the world today? Being around the Salesians in Australia, Zambia and Samoa has showed me there are so many ways to be Salesian and to carry out Don Bosco‘s message. Whether it’s in a Parish, a High School, Kindergarten, a Home for young people or in an Oratory. No matter where you are or what setting you are in, the core of being Salesian is being with young people and celebrating their joys. I believe one of the messages that Don Bosco could offer the world today would be to do everyday actions with love, kindness and respect.