ESC – Communication for meaningful change: Maria’s experience at JRS Europe

For Maria Theodosiadou, volunteering with JRS Europe was much more than a professional experience. It was a period of learning, reflection and personal growth that helped her understand how communication can contribute to solidarity and meaningful change.

Maria joined the JRS Europe team as a Communication Assistant through the European Solidarity Corps. During her placement, she contributed to a wide range of communication activities, including social media content, newsletters, website updates, articles, campaigns and events.

She supported the communication of JRS Europe’s work on migration, hospitality and refugee protection, as well as activities implemented through European projects. She also collaborated with colleagues working in advocacy, fundraising and project coordination, gaining a broader understanding of how communications support an organisation’s mission.

A particularly important part of the experience was learning how to communicate about migration and displacement in a responsible and human-centred way.

“I learned a lot about migration communication, but also about the responsibility of telling stories related to migration, refugees, hospitality and solidarity with care and respect.”

Throughout her placement, Maria developed her ability to adapt content for different audiences and communication channels. She also strengthened her organisational skills, learned to manage changing priorities and gained experience working within an international European organisation.

One of the most memorable moments was her involvement in the Brussels 20 km. Maria helped prepare and promote JRS Europe’s campaign and also participated in the event, contributing to a shared initiative that brought people together in support of the organisation’s mission.

Beyond the practical skills she developed, Maria’s ESC journey gave her greater confidence and clarity about the professional path she would like to pursue. It reinforced her interest in communications for social impact, particularly in areas connected to migration, human rights, advocacy and European affairs.

“Being part of JRS Europe showed me that communication can be more than sharing information. It can help raise awareness, create connection and support meaningful change.”

Maria concludes her experience grateful for the colleagues she worked with, the opportunities she received and the chance to contribute to a mission grounded in dignity, solidarity and hospitality.