Katerina KaLafati, ESAI EN ROI Junior Youth Worker and Volunteer
ESC volunteering in teams SKYRTHALIA project December 2024
2024-1-EL02-ESC51-VTJ-000200188
Participating in the Skyrthalia project was an unforgettable experience. As a backoffice manager, I worked closely with Dimitris Alepliotis and a talented group of Youth Workers from various cities of Greece. Together, we aimed to make a lasting impact on Thessaloniki's urban landscape.
The common mission of the volunteers' in team working groups was straightforward: raise awareness about the importance of green spaces in the city. Urbanization brings many challenges, and it is crucial to recognize how green areas enhance sustainability, health, and overall well-being. The need for green initiatives is only set to grow in the coming years—not just in Thessaloniki, but globally.
My role went beyond handling administrative tasks; I was deeply involved in ensuring that our activities ran smoothly and sparked meaningful discussions about urban greenery.
The Skyrthalia project was ambitious, and I embraced the challenge of planning several community engagement activities. Our main events were held at the Green Executive Club. I collaborated closely with Dimitris, bouncing ideas off one another, enhancing our workshop processes, and preparing crucial documents for events scheduled on the 12th, 13th, 18th, and 22nd of December.
My goal was to create a seamless experience that would inspire participants about urban gardening and environmental care together with Eleni and Dimitris. While I couldn't always be physically present at events because of my pregnancy, I fully embraced my responsibilities as a backoffice manager. My focus shifted towards connecting with the Youth Workers virtually.
This collaboration transformed our typical manager-subordinate dynamic into a productive partnership. I guided Greek Youth Workers through online meetings, for supporting the diffusion of the physical events.
Coordination of our project's special events—the welcome (6/12) and farewell gatherings (21-22/12) — and a few support to the preparation of the other activiteis (12th/12, 18th/12) was one of my proudest responsibilities. These occasions were not simply administrative tasks; they were vital for fostering community spirit among participants. Planning these celebrations highlighted the importance of acknowledgment in team building activities with sub-groups oriented project coordination.
As we wrapped up the project, my involvement didn't stop. Alongside Dimitris, I continued to gather feedback and plan future initiatives.
Though my direct participation in some activities was limited, my influence was felt in every engagement, idea, and connection made throughout the project. I take pride in being a steadfast supporter of our mission.
Looking back, my experience in the Skyrthalia project transcended typical managerial roles. It was about leading from behind, empowering others, and fostering a collaborative spirit toward a collective cause.
Despite the challenges posed by my pregnancy, I found fulfilling ways to contribute to a project that holds immense importance—urban greenery in Thessaloniki. I remain hopeful and invested in our cities' future and look forward to witnessing the lasting impact of initiatives like Skyrthalia on generations to come.
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