By Honorary Reporter Oumaima Latrech from Morocco
Photos  = Oumaima Latrech

I studied Korean at Chonnam National University in Gwangju for a year until August last year, when I moved to Ewha Womans University in Seoul to pursue a master's. While in Gwangju, I joined the Chonnam International Club, which fosters friendships between Korean and international students through language exchange or volunteer programs. 

Through the club, I volunteered for social community services, something more fulfilling than I expected since volunteering brought together people from diverse nationalities and backgrounds. In 2023, I joined two volunteer projects that left a lasting impact on me.

Animal shelter

Caring for stray cats goes beyond tidying up their surroundings; volunteers must provide a clean and loving space and serve wholesome meals for them.

One of my most memorable experiences was volunteering at the Gwangju Metropolitan City Animal Shelter on Apr. 28. With other club members, we spent a day taking care of animals and the shelter staff shared its mission to provide a safe and loving haven for homeless animals. Our day began with hands-on tasks including cleaning the space and covers, changing litter, disinfecting areas and preparing meals.

Along with four others, I handled the side of the shelter exclusively for cats. Between tasks, we talked to the shelter staff and got a better understanding of the work they do. Throughout the day, we administered medications under the supervision of the veterinary team, raising our awareness of animal welfare but also reinforcing our commitment to more volunteer actions.

Many foreign nationals avoid volunteering in Korea due to the language barrier but based on my experience, I think the activity pushes one out of one's comfort zone to not only give back to society but also fully enjoy one's time abroad.

Children's home

Another highlight of my volunteering experience was spending May 5, the day after Children's Day last year, at the orphanage Gwangju Ae Yuk Children's Home. Preparations began well before the holiday with meticulous activity planning based on the children's needs.

The volunteers and I were greeted by bright and enthusiastic faces. The festivities kicked off with games and art workshops attended by 50 children ages 4-14. The courtyard was transformed into a spectacle of enchanted soap bubbles where the children laughed and joyfully caught the sparkling bubbles.

Next, we made temporary tattoos and gave the children the opportunity to choose fun and colorful designs. Balloons added a festive touch to the atmosphere, creating laughter and games. A Pokémon world came to life during a small drawing workshop, where children used their imagination to create fantastic characters. 

A team of volunteers also prepared dalgona (honeycomb candy), which was made globally popular by the hit Netflix show "Squid Game" (2021), while another raised awareness of the importance of sustainability by crafting eco-friendly bags.

Volunteering abroad is a great opportunity to overcome cultural and language barriers. I will remember these experiences among the unforgettable memories of my stay in Gwangju. 

jihlee08@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.