Le visage de la philanthropie jeunesse
Anastasya B., 18
Community Foundation of Kaliningrad (Russia)
Depuis combien de temps êtes-vous membre de votre CJP?
I'm 18 and have been part of Youth Bank for about half a year. Our YB was set up with the help of local community foundation at Kaliningrad State Technical University where I'm studying economics. (Note: Russian YACs are known as Youth Banks)
Que retirez-vous de votre participation aux activités de votre CJP?
When entering the organization I was fascinated by the idea that my impact could make real difference, cause positive changes.
I believe that man is only happy when he finds work worth doing and does it well. So I'm happy with all of the work I have a chance to be involved in. Every aspect, e.g. working with people, understanding the needs of community, promoting the favourable image of my university and city, is really enjoyable.
Quelle est votre subvention préférée parmi celles attribuées par votre CJP?
We use donated money to make grants to students for implementing their projects, linking local donors with local needs. Providing thoughtful grant-making based on voting we always strive to help as many projects as we possibly can.
Parlez-nous de vous...
Since I joined the Youth Bank I've been going out every day, being around people who aren't just like me, but of another nationality or social station. I didn't use to socialize very much, and was quite reserved and shy. Now I can easily make speeches in front of a big audience!
Moreover, after an international conference our community foundation held in June, I now spend at least an hour every morning replying to all the messages being sent to me. So by testing myself in different ways, I've ended up with a fresh perspective back in the everyday world.
Y-a-t-il autre chose que vous aimeriez dire aux gens qui liront votre texte?
Kurt Lewin said that if you want truly to understand something, try to change it. My friends complain that I am repeating his words too often, but that's because they are true - it's my membership in Kaliningrad Youth Bank which gives me the irrefutable evidence.
août 2006
