Svenja Gabriel has travelled further than most of our ReStore volunteers. She came to ReStore from Germany for a 5 week placement. As it has come to the end of her time with us, we asked Svenja about her experience with ReStore.
I’m from Paderborn in Germany and I’m studying German and English to become a teacher.
The connection was made through my brother-in-law’s school. I looked at the website and after emails with Habitat staff, I thought it would be a good experience and it seemed to be a friendly atmosphere.
Better than I expected, I have really got into answering the telephone and the till. I can usually answer questions but if I can’t help is close by. The Northern Irish accent was very difficult to understand at the beginning but now I’ve got used to it.
Working behind the counter and helping with customers.
How many donations ReStore receives every day. I didn’t realise the extent to which local people supported Habitat.
Getting to know the other volunteers. They have been very kind, welcoming and helpful. We have great discussions in the tea room.
Having to do a lot at one time; often I’m helping a customer and the phone rings.
That projects are supported worldwide through ReStore.
I’ve really enjoyed my time here. The weather hasn’t been great but the country is beautiful and I’ve enjoyed hearing English all the time.
