An event of the scale of EuroSkills would be impossible: without an army of volunteers. The European Skills Championships in the Graz region are being supported by around 400 volunteers from 28 countries, including South Africa, Russia and Switzerland.

24.9.2021: Their tasks are many and varied, as Selina Gödl, Hannah Bergler and David Till, all from Styria, report: “School requires us to do an internship at EuroSkills, and during these few days we are responsible for keeping the competitors supplied with food and water. We also need to ensure that there are always enough cups available,” say Selina and Hannah in unison. The media team know they can rely on Hannah Gross. The 22-year-old student (of tourism and health management at the university of applied sciences in the Styrian town of Bad Gleichenberg) explains: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s something you really need to do once.”

EuroSkills is a very special event for volunteer Lituwete Laanakushe Noaeoapo from South Africa, as he is going to be involved again next year at WorldSkills Africa in Namibia. “I’ve already been to WorldSkills when it was held in Kazan, as for me it’s important to gain experience.” Elisabeth Boryskina from the Ukraine is working in the accreditation office: “I love helping, and I’m enjoying meeting new people here. The job is very challenging, but I love the work.” Alena Golubeva from Russia is also working in the accreditation office. For 49-year-old Mirko Lehnherr from Zurich, it’s his fifth time helping at EuroSkills: “It is relaxed here, but very professional,” says the vocational school teacher as he reflects on his first impressions.

Thank you to all the volunteers for your tireless efforts – you have become a real part of the Skills Family!