From Gaza to Denmark: Malak Al-Madhoun’s Transformative Year with the European Solidarity Corps

Malak Al-Madhoun, a young girl from the Al-Rimal area in Gaza, is set to begin an extraordinary journey of growth, cultural exchange, and community involvement in Denmark. She was forced to leave her homeland, Gaza, due to the ongoing conflict and is currently living with her family in Egypt. Malak has been selected to volunteer for a year through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), a program dedicated to fostering solidarity and promoting youth development across Europe.

Her journey is facilitated by Palestine Sports for Life, her sending organization, in collaboration with her hosting organization, Blåkilde Efterskole in Denmark, and AFS Interkultur, the lead organization supporting her stay. As she joins ESC’s diverse community of young volunteers, Malak will have the opportunity to contribute to various local projects, engage with new cultures, and share her unique experiences from Gaza.

Malak’s volunteer placement promises invaluable personal and professional growth. She will gain firsthand experience in European community projects that prioritize social inclusion and solidarity. Working alongside her Danish peers and ESC participants from across Europe, Malak will develop communication, teamwork, and project management skills—all crucial for her future. 

Additionally, the cultural understanding Malak will gain from interacting within an international environment will enrich her personal development, providing her with broader perspectives on social challenges and diverse approaches to problem-solving. Through ESC’s supportive framework, Malak’s journey extends beyond her year abroad; she will carry newfound knowledge and skills with her to Egypt, where her experience will fuel her efforts to inspire social change and bring a fresh, globally informed perspective to her community.  give me a small summary please