From 15 November 2023 to 17 November 2024, Anastasiia Khomenko volunteered with Ocean Znanja through two long-term ESC projects, for a total duration of one year. Both projects carried the title Closer, reflecting their shared focus on bringing opportunities for personal development and wellbeing closer to young people.
This was primarily achieved through research and mapping of opportunities: Anastasiia researched relevant information, contacted organisations and institutions offering free educational and developmental activities for young people, selected relevant data, and prepared it for digital presentation. Through this work, young people gained easier access to knowledge, workshops, and events they might otherwise miss due to a lack of information or time to search for such opportunities.
In addition to data collection, Anastasiia actively participated in the implementation of Zagreb Erasmus Community (ZEC) events, organised monthly by Ocean Znanja. These events promote Erasmus+ projects and provide young people who have participated in mobilities with a space to share their experiences, while offering others the opportunity to learn about mobility programmes, including ESC volunteering, and other personal development opportunities. Anastasiia supported the events by preparing invitations, assisting with logistics, and contributing to their implementation. She also actively supported other community activities, including volunteering actions.
Her work contributed to connecting young people with free opportunities, supporting solidarity and social wellbeing, and encouraging the development of skills, confidence, and independence. Anastasiia’s long-term individual volunteering demonstrates how consistent engagement and attentiveness to young people’s interests can improve access to educational and developmental opportunities while strengthening connections within the local community.
Anastasiia’s project is co-funded by the European Union through the European Solidarity Corps program. The expressed views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Union.