Erasmus + Internship: Estherlla Abui Tamakloe - Month I

I can’t believe it’s been just a month, it feels like I have been here longer. 

My first day in Romania was quite a journey, starting from a 7hr journey from the Bucharest (OTP) Airport to Târgu Frumos as I was in anticipating of what exciting things it may bring. The next day was quite nice, having to be a part of the exhibition with the French institute and the teachers, seeing Maxime and Mihaela present was quite interesting to see. Having to take pictures and help facilitate the program was good for me as it helped ease the pressure that had built up due to my anticipation. 

On my third day, there was an event in Cucuteni with Bethany and the other children, which was quite refreshing, the games, coloring and the beautiful and calming scenery in Cucuteni. 

The next week was also in full force, from meeting with Greek partners about the EU simulation, going to Pașcani to meet teens in the Innomate project, creating social media posts and coming up with lots of ideas. 

This first month in total was quite the experience from working with UNIREA, Petru Rareș, Trinitas, and others has opened my eyes to lots of things about non-formal education. Having seen how non-formal education works in practice and how much care goes into planning workshops, events, and community activities has taught me a lot. I’ve learned the importance of being flexible, open-minded, and patient when working in a new environment. Sometimes you work alone, sometimes with others, either way, every task teaches you something. 

There were many moments that stood out for me, one of my favorites was when I shared about Ghana and France whiles also learning about Romanian cultural dance which was quite entertaining and refreshing. I also visited the library, explored the Jemom and MaF path with the local volunteers, and interacted with people from the French Institute, Bethany, and others. I gave presentations on the EU Simulation and bullying. I also learned about educational games, types of learning, and how to create content on LinkedIn. 

Seeing Iași, Pașcani, and Târgu Frumos from this perspective has been eye-opening. I’m grateful to be part of this team. I’m happy about what I’ve experienced so far and the connections I’ve made. I’m also proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone, adjusting quickly, and embracing this opportunity. This is just the beginning. I have three more months ahead, and I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and contributing. I look forward to deepening my understanding of youth work and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way. I would love to start my own NGO someday in my home country, Ghana. 

Report written by Estherlla Abui Tamakloe, intern with ASIRYS in Romania through Erasmus+