Did you know that the vibrant Festival Clin d’Oeil wouldn’t exist without its volunteers? These dedicated individuals are absolutely essential. Let’s explore the world of volunteering at this unique event.

Volunteers at the Festival Clin d’Oeil come from various countries. Their roles are driven by a desire for generosity and altruism, but some also see it as a chance to expand their network and gain new opportunities.

The process to become a volunteer can vary. Some find it easy, while others encounter challenges. It often involves submitting applications and sometimes providing videos and CVs. Those selected are placed in teams based on their skills.

For many, it’s their first time at the festival. One volunteer shared, “This is my first time here. I want to experience teamwork and I love being a volunteer.” Others have been coming back for years, enjoying both working during the day and socialising at night.

The selection process is crucial. Festival organisers carefully choose individuals based on their willingness to work hard and fit into the teams. Long-time volunteers often take on leadership roles, guiding new members.

However, the diversity among volunteers can improve. There is a noticeable European dominance, with fewer volunteers from Africa. This is partly due to visa issues that prevent many from joining.

Despite the challenges, the festival has made progress in diversifying its volunteer base. Efforts are ongoing to include more young people and individuals from different ethnic backgrounds and countries.

Melissa from Argentina shared her experience, “I barely knew about the Festival Clin d’Oeil until a European friend recommended it. When I arrived in Europe, I knew I had to come here. It’s on the same level as hearing people’s festivals and it really impacted me.”

Volunteering at the festival is not just about work; it’s about forming deep connections. Working in small teams for days helps build strong bonds among volunteers. These connections often extend beyond the festival, creating a network of friends and professionals worldwide.

“Many say there is a lot of networking and connections made at the festival thanks to the volunteers,” said an organiser. “People who come just for fun often say hello and move on, but volunteers form lasting relationships.”

Looking ahead, there is hope for more volunteers from the southern hemisphere to join, despite the challenges. The festival aims to be more inclusive and accessible to people from all over the world.

The Festival Clin d’Oeil thrives because of its dedicated volunteers. Their hard work, passion, and diversity bring the festival to life, making it a unique and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Tomorrow, we will explore the deaf ecosystem within the Festival Clin d’Oeil. Don’t miss it!