Hi there, my name is Oskar, and I am passionate about uncovering the natural processes in this wonderful world. During the bigger part of my life, I have been fascinated by biological systems that make up the nature of our planet. In high school, I studied maths and sciences. After that, I proceeded to study a master of science with a specialization in plant and biomedical biotechnology.

Last summer, I finally graduated, and it was time for a change. Although biology, biotechnology and environmental sciences really interest me, I felt that I needed a switch of scenery. The intensity and stress that comes with studying was something I wanted to take a break from. However, I had no clue what direction I wanted to go in. Although I considered working or studying abroad, I was never really convinced. At one point this summer, after I graduated, my parents and I were having a drink on a sunny terrace. We talked about my dads experience working as a volunteer in India with the “Village Reconstruction Organization”. I always admired him for his 3 years of voluntary work there. Although somewhat different, this topic gave me flashbacks to my year abroad in Stockholm, where I got out of my comfort zone, met new people, and explored different cultures and languages. My Stockholm experience helped me a lot in my personal development. Therefore, I was excited to look for a voluntary project to challenge myself further in similar ways.

Shortly after, I stumbled upon the opportunity to work with “Initiative et Development Citoyen” at Camping Le Belvédère. They offered me the mushroom project. The mushroom project is based on a circular economy. The goal is to recycle spent coffee grounds, currently a waste product, as a growth medium for oyster mushrooms. This fitted my personal objectives perfectly. I can put all the knowledge and experience I gathered during my studies into practice for this project. Another aspect that really speaks to me is the opportunity to live in a rurally located community with many like-minded volunteers. Lastly, since I live in Belgium, I always wanted to be able to speak French. I never got around to it but living in France is the perfect opportunity.

So far, I am really grateful to be here. The place has many motivated, open and easy-going people. Everybody is here to give it their all and make the best out of it. Also, the owners, Franco and Bibie, are very driven people that strive towards creating a sustainable society. I really admire their dedication. For now, I feel at home here, and yesterday, I even decided to extend my project for another 3 months.

For the future, I do not know where I will be after my time with the mushroom project. However, there are a few things I know for sure. I want to explore the world, get to know people with different perspectives, speak other languages, gather new skills, and learn more about the fascinating biological systems that exist on our world. In short, I will continue challenging myself in every possible way.

To the reader, I hope you find your own project that excites and motivates you! That we may meet one day, have a tea, play some instruments and talk about our life experiences.

Oskar