Izabela in an interview with STELP
STELP: Why don’t you briefly introduce yourself? Who are you and in which country do you work with STELP?
Izabela: My name is Izabela, and I work in Katsikas, Greece, with Habibi.Works – a makerspace and platform for international exchange. I am responsible for the administration of the Free Shop, our latest project that allows us to offer free hygiene products to the community from the camp. Since its launch in July, the Free Shop has been supporting the residents of Katsika camp by ensuring that they have access to essential hygiene items.
STELP: How did your club come to work with STELP?
Izabela: In our search for partners for the Free Shop project, we came across STELP, an organization known for
organization known for supporting various initiatives throughout Greece. We were looking for partners who share our belief in the project’s mission and can support us in setting up and opening the shop in Katsikas.
STELP: What do you do full-time?
Izabela: Free Shop Officer at Habibi.Works
STELP: Why is your project so dear to you?
Izabela: I was deeply involved in every detail of the Free Shop project – from conducting the research to overseeing the construction and managing the day-to-day operations. Since we opened in July, we have welcomed between 700 and 1,200 visitors a month. This project is particularly close to my heart as, after all the work behind the scenes, we are now seeing its tangible impact and receiving positive feedback from visitors.
STELP: Which part of your project means the most to you and why?
Izabela: A favorite part of my job as a Free Shop Officer is connecting with people. Whether through brief encounters or in-depth conversations, I enjoy hearing their stories and sharing moments during their shopping experience. The Free Shop is also a valuable space to better understand the conditions in the camp and recognize the needs of the community. It gives us a clearer picture of what life is like outside the camp walls.
STELP: Do you have a life motto?
Izabela: Carry on and never give up!
