Bienvenu Shelter welcomed four Civil Service volunteers from Italy, for one 1 year volunteering experience, from September 2025 to July 2026, sent by the Scalabrinian Foundation to support the mission of the Scalabrinian Sisters in South Africa.
They share their experience: “When we landed in Johannesburg at the beginning of September 2025, none of us really knew what to expect. We had been preparing for months with meetings, trainings, documents, but the reality of stepping into a new country, a new culture, and a new community is something no preparation can fully capture.
Now each of us is slowly finding our place within the rhythm of daily life here. Two of us are based at the Bienvenu Shelter, and two at the Training Centre. These are spaces full of life, resilience, and stories. And now, somehow, they are becoming part of our story too”.
Elisa spends her days at the Lovely Bears Crèche, surrounded by children’s energy and laughter, and tears sometimes. She is caring for the little ones, playing with them, offering comfort, and sharing in their daily discoveries and their journey of growth.
Carolina supports the Bienvenu Shelter with administrative and coordination tasks, updating the database, managing the Paroikos system, assisting with reports, and helping with outreach and project proposals when needed.
At the Mother Assunta Training Centre, Samantha and Magdalena are actively involved in the women’s empowerment courses, supporting the organisation of classes, helping prepare for graduations, and maintaining the database. Their work contributes to a vibrant space where women come together to learn, grow, and celebrate their progress.
“Our days are never quite the same. Some are filled with activities and movement, others with quiet tasks and small but meaningful interactions. Often, the moments that stay with us are the unexpected ones, a shared laugh, a conversation over lunch, a child running to give a hug. From the very beginning, we felt welcomed by everyone, not just with words, but through actions, care, and a genuine sense of belonging.
There’s a strong sense of care and hospitality here”.
“We’re still learning and getting used to the rhythm of things, but each day brings us closer to this community, and to ourselves. Living and volunteering far from home is a challenge, yes, but it’s also a gift. We feel this place is truly becoming our home away from home.
We’re excited for what lies ahead and can’t wait to share the moments to come with all of you”.
