JRS in Malta

“As a student of a master program in Humanitarian Action, volunteering with JRS Malta was a truly wonderful experience, very enriching personally and professionally. There, I had the chance to get involved with a team of hard-working professionals from different fields who accompany and help those who are more vulnerable. It was very inspiring to become part of a group not only firmly committed to the advocacy of social justice, but also in direct contact with the faces, names and stories of the reality of forced migration. I had the opportunity to learn from passionate people whose job has a positive impact in building better societies for everyone.” 

“The time I spent at the JRS office will be fondly remembered even from the first day, as I immediately felt welcomed into the community-like office space. The staff members have created an atmosphere in which one feels comfortable expressing their opinion, and really allow everyone to feel equal and valued. I particularly admired how dedicated they are in caring for each and every individual that comes into the office, and made their best effort to be as helpful as possible.” 

“I always wanted the opportunity to work with refugees and asylum seekers, so when the opportunity came to do my placement in Malta, I applied straight away! My first day was a blur, it went by so quickly, I learnt so much information in so little time and it was down to the amazing team at JRS, always willing to support and help me. As time went by I got my own fantastic clients, and got to go to the detention centers, it was difficult hearing their stories as they had been through so much, but I was determined to make a change in their life. I became part of the most amazing team, wanting to support so many individuals, and I do believe I have made friends for life.”

“My time working at JRS has been a hallmark in my life as it has enriched me both on a personal and professional level. It has given me the privilege of meeting and working with people who value life, faith, family and community. As a psychologist, I have come face to face with intense suffering in the aftermath of numerous traumas inherent in forced displacement but also with unparalled resilience.  Working in team of individuals who work tirelessly to uphold human rights and instil dignity grounds me on a daily basis and is something I am very grateful for.”

“Every day at JRS is a celebration of people’s resilience to hardship and oppression. The two driving forces that keep me engrossed in the work are our clients and our team. With our clients, it is never just another day at the office because when you’re faced with how much they have had to overcome, it gives the work so much more depth and meaning. And as for the team, knowing that a difficult situation can be dealt with as a unit not as an individual gives me the peace of mind that any challenge can be faced and conquered. I wouldn’t trade it for the world!”

“Isn’t admin admin, backstage, wherever you are? Sometimes frustrating? I take a break from my desk. That woman sitting in the corner; she’s of a certain age. What has she endured? That young man, bold; he looks ok, and yet he’s here, hoping that we understand he needs more help than he asks for. That elderly gentleman is here again today. Still with sadness in his eyes. And that young, exhausted mother, with her brood of children. They’re hungry. We all acknowledge each other as mirrors do, reflecting smiles. Culture, colour, belief, language. We’re all in this boat together. I return to my desk. No. Admin is not simply admin. Especially not at JRS, teeming with life, and lives.”

“It is a privilege to walk alongside forcibly displaced people, and accompany one another through this journey. Each day brings a new experience of this, whether I am meeting clients in the office, on outreach in the centres, or whether I am in a school. Although it is not always easy, I have always felt valued and supported by my colleagues, both as a volunteer and a staff member. The experience leaves me very grateful to work in such a warm, welcoming, interdisciplinary team.” 

“Working with JRS has opened my eyes to a whole new reality of what people on the move go through. It opened my eyes to see beyond the beautiful Maltese sea and witness the stark contrast where the struggles of vulnerable groups have been often overlooked. As I volunteered for the Employment Project at JRS Malta, I came across many forced migrants who had gone through so much in their lives and yet who always showed resilience and determination to move forward. I was also touched by the way JRS staff members cared for the clients and volunteers with passion, sincerity, and warmth. I am grateful that I had an opportunity to have become part of this wonderful community.”

“My experience as a volunteer at JRS was extremely enriching and confirmed my thoughts to work in the humanitarian field. One of the most inspiring experiences was working with minors, they are eager to learn and full of dreams. Another thing that I enjoyed very much from my experience was working at the office with JRS staff, they are really committed in their work and transmit a lot of passion in what they do. The team truly puts into practice the Jesuit ideal of being men and women for others.”

“During my Master program in Humanitarian Action I was given the incredible opportunity to volunteer at JRS Malta, which I would describe as an immensely instructive, enriching, and inspiring experience. I highly enjoyed the accessible and supportive team who advised me in any way possible and who were always present to answer any questions. Moreover, I want to point out the in-depth help and assistance that is provided to everyone entering the office and how the different departments work together to provide the best support they can.”