In the bustling landscape of volunteerism, some individuals stand out not only for their dedication but also for the depth of their impact. Maria Hawkins, a Swiss-based ENGin volunteer, embodies this spirit of empowerment through education.
Her journey with ENGin began in October 2023, fueled by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Ukrainians during challenging times.
Driven by a background in executive work and a passion for supporting Ukraine, Maria found ENGin through the vast expanse of the internet.
Reflecting on her initial encounter, Maria shares, "I stumbled upon ENGin by coincidence, but it quickly became a purposeful part of my life."
This serendipitous discovery led Maria to embark on a transformative journey of volunteerism, starting with two buddies and now proudly supporting three.
One of the hallmark features of Maria's ENGin experience is the depth of connection she fosters with her buddies. She emphasizes the matching process to be "truly magical." Maria shares how she’s formed close friendships with her buddies, highlighting her focus "not only on language learning but also on personal and professional growth." Maria's dedication goes beyond language practice; she has spearheaded initiatives like "CV surgery" sessions, offering invaluable assistance to ENGin students by refining their CVs for improved job prospects.
Maria's son, Kasper, shares her commitment to supporting Ukraine and also joined ENGin as a volunteer. Inspired by his experiences volunteering in Prague during the war, Kasper finds fulfillment in connecting with his buddy and exchanging cultural insights. Maria reflects on Kasper's involvement, stating that he "sees ENGin as a platform to contribute within his means and make a tangible difference."
For Maria, ENGin serves as more than just a language program — it's a gateway to cultural exchange and meaningful connections. She believes in the transformative power of education and its role in shaping brighter futures. Maria envisions ENGin not only as a tool for language acquisition but also as a catalyst for professional and personal development, facilitating Ukraine's integration into the European community.
As Maria continues her journey with ENGin, she remains committed to empowering individuals through education. Her story serves as a testament to the profound impact of volunteerism and the ripple effect it creates in communities worldwide.
Join Maria and countless others in empowering through education with ENGin. Together, we can make a difference, one connection at a time.