Community

Volunteering with KONA During GIC Week  

Gwangju News

By Dhanashri Burungale 

I am Dhanashri Burungale and I am from India. During Gwangju International Community (GIC) Week 2023, I had the privilege of volunteering with UNESCO KONA Storybook Center, where I immersed myself in the art of storytelling. I chose to narrate the Indian fairy tale “The Snake and the Frogs,” weaving cultural richness into the narrative. As I shared this enchanting tale, I introduced the children in our audience to India’s vibrant culture. Their eager faces and enthusiasm were infectious, making this cultural exchange an unforgettable experience. 

In addition to the story, KONA volunteers presented different flags from around the world, explaining their significance and fostering a sense of global unity. The children actively participated in flag painting, allowing them to connect with the stories on a deeper level. 

Dhanashri with a youngster coloring a flag at the KONA booth at GIC Week 2023.

One crucial aspect that made this volunteering experience truly exceptional was the guidance and support of our professor Kim Young-nim, who was an invaluable mentor throughout the event. Their expertise and passion for cultural exchange were evident in the way they inspired both the volunteers and the children in attendance. 

In conclusion, my volunteering experience during GIC Week 2023 with UNESCO KONA was a heartwarming journey of cultural exploration and education. Through the power of storytelling, I had the privilege of introducing young minds to the richness of Indian culture and the beauty of diversity across the globe. This event was a beautiful reminder of the importance of fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, and I am grateful to have been a part of it. 

The Author

Dhanashri is a former university lecturer who takes an active role as a UNESCO KONA Volunteer, contributing significantly to Together Day and GIC Week, conducting weekly English mentoring, presenting Indian culture at the Children’s English Library of Gwangju Educational and Cultural Center for Students, and mentoring at the Seobitmaru Senior Center.