My name is Nina Portolan and I am the new ESC volunteer at ENIL. I will be starting my volunteering project at the beginning of May. Because of the current situation in the world with the COVID-19 pandemic, my experience will start a bit differently than most. As I write this, I am still at my home in Belgrade, Serbia. I will be working remotely until things get resolved and I can come to Brussels.
While here in my home city, I also study molecular biology at the University of Belgrade. Serbia has beautiful nature and many endemic species which makes my field especially interesting.
Martial arts and sports are another big part of my life. Having a physical disability myself, I never thought I could be an athlete, but now I am part of the first ever national para-karate team in Serbia and I’m hoping one day I will become a licensed karate coach.
At the organization we started, my coaches, team and I use sports as means to advocate for equality and social inclusion of persons with disabilities. A belief that given a fair chance all people can achieve their goals is what led me to a study session last year, which then led me to ENIL.
With this opportunity, I hope to contribute to the common goal we have and expand my knowledge for the future.
