Today we are introducing you Hana, our intern, and giving you a glimpse into her experience at Bridges by Mentors. We asked her a few questions, here’s what she shared:
- Your first encounter with Bridges by Mentors
How did you first hear about the Bridges by Mentors project? What made you curious or motivated to get involved?
I found out about the BBM project when I was looking for an internship. At that time, I was interested in international exchange and how people from different backgrounds connect and understand each other.
I liked that BBM is not only about learning about other cultures, but also about sharing their own cultures as a mentor. I was also curious about how this kind of exchange is organized and supported, which made me want to join the project.
2. What is your role in the project?
What are you doing as an intern in the BBM project?
As an intern, I mainly work on organizing training sessions for international students who want to become mentors, and planning activities where they can interact with local youth in Belgium in their role as mentors.
One thing I focus on is training sessions. I think about how to make the sessions engaging while helping students learn skills like communication, empathy, and intercultural understanding. I also enjoy talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
3. Mentoring in three words
If you had to describe mentoring in three words, what would they be and why?
Exchange
BBM gives international students the chance to connect with local youth through cultural exchange. Through conversations and activities, they can share their experiences and cultures. I think this is a great way to learn from each other and see things from new perspectives.
Understanding
By spending time together and learning about each other’s backgrounds, people start to understand different cultures more deeply. It’s not just about knowledge, but about real interactions and experiences.
Connection
This project also creates connections among international students. Through training and activities, they talk a lot about their cultures and ideas, and that makes new connections.
At the same time, mentoring activities also create connections between international students and local youth in Belgium.