Italy

Ciao!
 
My name’s Giulia and I come From Asti, Italy. I’m currently studying International Relations for Cooperation and Development, at Trento University. During my years of study I have found it very interesting to reflect on what development means and in which ways we should implement it, so that it is fair, sustainable and long-lasting. I believe that if our aim is to encourage and drive development, the collaboration with communities and the exchange of ideas are fundamental aspects to take into consideration. This is why I chose to take part in the Utopia 500 project: I found the idea of active action and taking society where we think it should go stimulating and important principles. 
Working with younger generations for me puts a solid foundation of change on the ground. It’s an important and precious task, and I’m happy to be able to do my bit and work towards a fairer society.

Croatia

Bok!

My name is Hana and I am a fifth year psychology student at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, The University of Zagreb. I come from a small town called Pula on the coast of Croatia. I enjoy living and working in an international environment because there is so much to gain from this experience. The Erasmus internship on the Utopia500 project was the perfect choice for me, not only because it is in Portugal, a country that I find so beautiful; but also because the project does something that I believe is really important to spread throughout the world. The topics that we deal with, such as equality of rights for minorities and the preservation of our planet are something that I find necessary to educate children and a lot of other people about. Also, it gives me the opportunity to work with and learn from various people from different parts of the world who are of different professions and backgrounds. This project allows me to propose my own ideas, be creative and make an impact on the community.

United Kingdom

Hi!
 

I’m Lydia I am currently studying a BA in Modern Languages (French, Spanish and Portuguese) at the University of Bristol in the UK. I was delighted to find an internship raising awareness for such important global matters, such as gender and environmental issues. Being in the charming city of Porto has opened my mind not only to Portuguese culture, but to the kaleidoscope of cultures and nationalities that belong to my co-workers. Together we have a birds-eye scope of different issues affecting places across the globe. Living here is a great opportunity for me to improve my Portuguese and surprisingly, my general fitness. I am sure that I will be ready to climb mount Everest after 4 months of enduring Porto’s hills! Studying languages has enabled me to cross-culturally examine issues such as gender equality and racism. I have engaged with a wide range of feminist theory and literature that has encouraged me to make a positive change to lift women and challenge our patriarchal society. Being a member of Utopia500, I can use our collective voice to put my beliefs into action. Currently we are promoting workshops raising awareness of Dating Violence and also Collective imagination. I am also passionate about racial and class equality in an increasingly unequal society. As Donald Trump and Boris Johnson are skipping hand in hand towards dystopia; utopians are more crucial than ever to inspire and empower others to fight for a more equal society.

Finland

Moi!

I'm Anna from Helsinki, Finland. I'm an anthropologist just graduating from the University of Helsinki. I have studied religions and ways communities pursue a utopian way of life. This has led me to ponder how I might make an impact and create ways for a better world to exist. From the internship, I'm hoping to gain knowledge on how and what these ways could be, while also giving my own input and expertise I have achieved from my studies and general life experience. Utopia500 offers a great opportunity to work in the charming city of Porto. This project is a beautiful experience to be shared amongst colleagues around the world!

Italy

Hello, my name is Giulia and I come from a small village scattered in the mountains and vineyards in northern Italy. Three years ago, I moved to Parma to attend University and last December I received my Bachelor’s degree in Political Sciences and International Relations. I would like to finish my studies in the same field because, forward thinking, my biggest aim is to become an ambassador. I came to Porto because I really wanted to challenge myself. Working for Utopia 500 is an incredible experience, besides getting to know a lot of smart people, it gives me the opportunity to bring into action and deepen my knowledge of all the issues that I’m already greatly interested in. By participating in workshops in several places and with students of all ages, it has become clear to me that union is strength. After an uncertain time in my life, where I became disillusioned with the idea of uniting to change society; I rediscovered a moral duty- to take a step forward and walk together towards an ideal and utopian horizon.

Colombia

My name is Farileandro and I come from Spain, although I am originally from Colombia. I studied International Relations and recently finished a Masters in Latin American Studies. Believing everyone has some potential to make the world a better place, Utopia500 seemed a good opportunity to showcase this in an endeavour to create a more inclusive and welcoming place for all. Having also lived abroad several times, I found Portugal a very interesting country to explore and get to know. Luckily, I have also gotten to work alongside a brilliant team, making this experience even more memorable. All in all, standing for what I value, making meaningful projects and helping people to develop are priorities at this stage of my life and this project is suitable for any person who, like me, wants to gain experience on the many issues Utopia500 addresses.

Slovenia

Živjo!

My name is Klara and I am currently pursuing a degree in Media Communications at the University of Maribor, Slovenia. Joining the dynamic team of Utopia 500 seemed like the perfect opportunity to gain more experience working in the areas I am deeply interested in – media, collective action and the issues of human rights, while exploring the charmingly vibrant city of Porto. Being a part of an extremely multicultural and diverse environment served as a powerful reminder that the answer to most global issues of today can only be found in unity. In a world as divided as ours, a true utopia can only be reached when we harness the power of the collective.

Kosovo

Ckemi!

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My name is Emira and I come from Kosovo. I am currently doing my BA in International Relations at Corvinus University of Budapest, Hungary. I also lived in Northern Cyprus, making Portugal my third country living abroad, but so far it is the one that I impressed me the most. It was very exciting to be living in Porto and most of the time I would be the first Kosovar person Portuguese people had ever met in their lives so this was a way to represent Kosovo. Utopia500 was an amazing experience and every day was exciting and there was something new to do. It made me become more aware of the problems we are facing today as a society, the risks posed to the environment and what we can do to help. Utopia500 made it able for me to hold a session about the Sworn Virgins of Albania - Burrneshat and also about Women’s Rights in Kosovo. A truly unforgettable experience!  Unfortunately, I got to stay here for only 2 months but every day was more memorable than the other. The Utopia500 team has amazing people and all of us were active and ready to offer our help to try and make an impact on the world.

United States

Hi!

My name is Emily and I’m from Beverly, Massachusetts.  I am going into my fourth year at Colby-Sawyer College in New London, New Hampshire as a Creative Writing and Literature major.  I have a strong interest in Literature, particularly postmodernism, but I enjoy learning about different cultures and finding ways to be creative.  I have family in both the Azores and Porto, so Utopia500 is the perfect opportunity for me to learn more about this beautiful city and interact with its community.  I’m very excited to join this diverse team and expand my thinking as a utopian!

Italy

Hello!

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My name is Daniele, I'm from Italy.

I lived most of my life in a little village of Southern Italy, Melicuccà, in the province of Reggio Calabria, but I then moved to study at the University of Pavia where I Graduated in Computer Engeneering. In these last years, I became more and more interested in building a better world, through both reducing our ecological footprint as a single human and with activist groups like Utopia500. I truly believe in the combined power of the little action such as not using disposable plastic and buying things in a more mindful and responsible way. Due to my interest, I realized that Utopia500 was the project for me, and the amazing Team I found as soon as I arrived in Porto confirmed it. The city is really beautiful, both from an artistic/architectural point of view and for the great vibes that it transmits. I discovered places from Ponte Dom Luís I bridge to Clerigos tower and attended events from ESN to the Utopia500 workshop that led to the discovery of the less famous part of Porto, the little town of Valongo. In the end, I think this will be an absolutely positive experience and I'm grateful for having had this possibility.

Germany

Hallo!

My name is Miguel Ohnesorge and I spent most of my life in the cosy town of Goettingen in the heart of Germany. I did my BA in History and Philosophy at the University of Kassel and will proceed to an MPhil in History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Cambridge later this year. For me, Utopia 500 was a good opportunity to stay longer in the wonderful city of Porto after spending an Erasmus term and bridge the time between my undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The project offered me an interesting insight into the why’s and how’s of ecological activism. I especially enjoyed the collaborative work we did together with the High School of Valongo and different public institutions like the Serralves Museum of Modern Art. 

Italy

Ciao!

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My name is Marina, from Milan, Italy. I completed my degree in Communication, Innovation, Multimodality at the University of Pavia, a small city near Milan. When the opportunity arose to go on an Erasmus Traineeship I wanted to find some place I really felt could enrich me. Even though my field of studies is unrelated it was my personal passion for the mission of Utopia500 that in the end brought me here. This is a place where I feel I can put my skills to good use for something I really believe in. I've had so many great opportunities at Utopia500 to do that and it's amazing to see the results of what we work on. I was lucky enough to be on a great team but above all the work environment is something I aspire to find again in the future. This traineeship has been a wonderful experience, in this gorgeous city, and it gives me hope that we can really bring Utopia to life.

Portugal

Hey!
My name is Isabel, and I am from Porto, Portugal.
I completed a semester in Law School at the Faculty of Law in Porto, but decided it wasn´t the right course, so will be switching to Languages, Literatures and Cultures in the Fall, also in Porto. 
Utopia500 became a very interesting opportunity during what would have been my second semester at Law School, to be able to get a broad introduction into studies related to Languages and Humanities. 
And so far, I have had an amazing experience helping out at Utopia500 and its several projects, also learning a lot about the environment and how to be more sustainable, in order to be able to save our planet before it becomes too late. 
I am very grateful for the experience and hope to be able to repeat such an experience in the future, during my Masters or as an Erasmus student. 

Nigeria

My name is Kenneth Erhabor; a Nigerian studying World Politics at the University of Pavia, Italy. Aside discussing global politics with like-minded individuals, I am also a filmmaker and motion designer with a special focus on visual effects (VFX), CGI and animation. Joining Utopia 500 has been both a privilege and a pleasure as I have had the opportunity to contribute to not just an idea of a better world but to one that has the desire to save a dying planet. As the first African to join this organization, I take it upon myself to spread the core messages and principles of the Utopian idea among my people especially as we are beginning to feeling the brunt of global problems such as climate change because we are not immune or isolated from these issues as much as the rest of the world. I hope to tell stories through film and animation about the possibility of creating a better world with a sustainable environment, better living standards and equality for all irrespective of race, gender or religion. Joining Utopia 500 is my first step in this direction and I am very thankful for the opportunity.

Hungary

Hi!

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My name is Tamás Antal, and I am from Hungary. I am studying finance at the Corvinus University of Budapest and philosophy at the Eötvös Loránd University. I was a member of the College for Advanced Studies in Social Theory, where we were dealing with topics like environmentalism, green and ethical economics, postmodernism, feminism, postcolonialism and post marxism, so the Utopia500 project was the best choice to match my interests. I had visited Porto before, so I knew it was a really nice and interesting place where I could spend a really amazing few months and I am not disappointed. :)

Italy

Ciao a tutti!

I am Stefano Mingolla and I am from a little village in the mountains in the north of Italy. I really love the area where I live, it is the perfect place to practice sports, to take walks surrounded by nature and to breathe clean air...or should I say this was what I thought. I discovered that my city is one of the most polluted in the entire Italy, with dramatic consequences for the health of the local population and for the environment. For this reason, after my bachelor’s degree in business administration, I understood how important it is to change direction if we want to provide a better environment for the future generation, and in turn a better quality of life. Thus, I changed city and tried a new adventure in Ferrara, a UNESCO world Heritage city. I chose the masters programme in Green Economy and Sustainability and this has been the best decision that I have ever made because after that, my mind changed completely. I learned English, started to travel, and met people from all over the world. Currently, I am in Porto to conclude my last 3 exams and at the same time I am working with Utopia500 team. I am very happy to be here, enjoying this beautiful city, its history, the ocean, and at the same time working in a fantastic team. They are not only my colleagues, they are my new friends.

Spain

Hi!

I am Sara from Spain. I am currently studying Mass Media at University of Vigo in Galicia.

I always had a fascination for nature photography, documentaries and environmental education. For that reason, I knew that I would like Utopia 500 because it is more than a project, it is an opportunity where we can share our ideas with all the members and get a united team. With them, I carried out different workshops such as 'Sustainability in Serra de Valongo' at primary schools of Valongo and 'Ecological Footprint' at Valongo High School. Both workshops deal with the issue of ecology and the importance of taking care of our planet, but always from a positive perspective, encouraging students to participate and be aware that together we can help the planet.

Although my Internship in Utopia 500 was only 3 months long, I had an incredible experience that gave me the strength to continue on this path in the following stages of my life.

Croatia

Olá!

My name is Antonija and I come from the small island of Pag, located in Croatia. I have graduated from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, department Cultural Studies of the University of Rijeka. Currently I am attending a Master's degree, at the same department. Even though I got my Bachelor's degree on gender equality, my interests are also media, music, environment, art and anthropology. Since my field of study is culture, and culture is present in various fields of our everyday life, project Utopia 500 seemed like a perfect opportunity to gain work experience involving things I love. Not only things I love, but the things that help the environment, communities and individuals to grow. Besides this, I met new lovely people with whom working is a joy. And beyond all of it, I got a chance to explore and enjoy the city of Porto where culture and people are amazing! 

Croatia

Hello!

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My name is Nina and I am a Master degree student of Cultural studies from Croatia. Even though I come from a small village in Istria, I can describe myself as an open- minded person and curious to learn and explore what is different from my culture. Since I can remember, I love to read books and create images and scenarios in my head just the way I want them to be. Maybe because of that, I don’t want to stop imagining our planet as a beautiful and perfect place for people to enjoy and live every day for a long time. I don’t want the negative side of our planet to overcome. I don’t want us to remember our planet as a great place to have lived in, but also to remain imperative for all future generations.

That’s why Utopia 500 presented to me as a chance to make everything I imagine a bit more realistic. Working in an environment that contributes towards environmental sustainability, equality, unity, multiculturality and all the other issues that can make this world a better place, I feel more confident about making a change. By participating in different workshops, presentations and discussions, each day I am becoming more aware that I am making a huge impact as an individual. An individual which is making a difference on her own, but that can only succeed in association with others.

Istanbul

Olá! Merhaba!

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My name is Deniz, from Turkey. Even though I have been living in Istanbul for more than 5 years, my hometown is a relatively smaller city, Bursa. I graduated from the Psychology Department of Kadir Has University in 2018. I had decided to benefit from the opportunity of Erasmus+ Programme before my graduation, and I found myself in one of the best beautiful cities, insert Porto here :), one of the most beautiful cultures and with the friendliest people, and finally one of the best possible internships for me, Utopia500! Since I had incredibly versatile interest fields such as music, cognitive science, aviation, and linguistics, it was perfect to find a project which includes many topics in a holistic manner. So I came to Porto in September 2018.

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Since I took many classes about Gender and Politics at my home university, a friend of mine and I developed a project based on our former and current ideas about these issues. What could be better than educating young people! We, as a team, prepared a set of workshops about “Gender Equality and Sustainable Development” to be promoted at schools of the city of Valongo. Besides the fun side of the workshops, it was a great experience for me to share and convey my knowledge about gender and witness these ideas flourish in the minds of youngsters. Moreover, I saw they were having fun too! It is a great experience to work with the amazingly intellectual people, I am glad to be here.

İstanbul

Hello,

I am Aylin from Istanbul, Turkey. I graduated from Psychology in 2018 at Kadir Has University. I also did Erasmus in Krakow, Poland in 2017. During my education life, I tried to work in different areas. I worked with children who have difficult backgrounds due to their family structure, in Berlin. I am also a member of EFPS (European Federation of Psychology Students' Associations). I gave a presentation for high school students in Istanbul about breaking stigmas and stereotypes regarding psychological disorders. Now, I am in Porto and I am doing an internship at Utopia500 Project. Working at this Project is big chance for me because I had the opportunity to reach students to promote their awareness about different topics. A friend of mine and I did a presentation about Gender Equality and Sustainable Development at the Secondary School of Valongo. It was an amazing experience for me. We reached interesting conclusions that hadn’t expected. Besides being at the Project, I am really having great time in Porto. Portuguese people and Porto’s culture and lifestyle are amazing. Thanks to Utopia500 project, I had the opportunity to reach more people, to create more projects and to think about different topics as well.

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Istanbul

Hello,

I am Süeda from İstanbul, Turkey. I graduated in Cinema and TV and also Psychology in 2018 at İstanbul Şehir University. I mainly worked here as a photographer, director and editor. I prepared a photography exhibition called ‘’my little utopia’’. Moreover, I also came up with the  idea of ‘’eye of a utopian’’ which is basically a video project about 6 different countries’ capital cities. I shot and edited these videos by myself. Besides focusing on the projects, I had really great time in Porto. Thanks to Utopia500 I had a chance to create my projects but, more importantly, I met lovely open-minded utopians.

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Istanbul

Hello! I am Kübra from Istanbul - Turkey. I am currently studying English Language Teaching at Kültür University in Istanbul. Languages and cultures has been always interesting to me. I love learning about cultures, languages and meeting people from all over the world. I feel like I am in the place that I belong to right now. Another interest of mine is the environmental matters. I want to make a difference for the world that I live in. That's why I got excited when I saw the website of Utopia 500 at first time. I feel privileged to work with this great team. Hopefully I will contribute to great projects as Utopia 500 team has been running. 

Istanbul

Hello! My name is Onurcan but people in here call me Onuskan. I am from Istanbul/ Turkey. Recently i have graduated in Radio and Television Technology Department, at Istanbul Kültür University. I came to Porto to do an internship in Utopia 500 project but it became more than this. I found myself in this beautiful city and in this project. I am very happy to be here. I can't wait to explore more!

Istanbul

HI! My name is Melis. I'm from Turkey and 25 years old. After graduating from Doğuş University Public Relations and Publicity Department I studied at Kültür University. My department was Communication Design-Cinema. I just graduated. I like to visit different countries and meet people from different cultures. I feel lucky to work with the Utopia 500 team.

Bulgaria

Zdraveite! Olá! Hello!:) I am Polina and I come from Bulgaria. I studied Geography and I even have been a Geography teacher, but what I really like is to travel and explore the world. I've been to many places, like in South America and Asia, exploring the local cultures, people and habits. What is the most fascinating for me is the relationship between people and nature. I am an environmental activist since my teenage years and my passion for the protection of the environment is integrated into my academic studies. While travelling, observing and communicating with local people I gradually became eager to be able to voice out the concerns of the communities and their struggles to survive the destruction of their natural habitats by consumerism-oriented corporations and keep their traditional lifestyle. I felt deep respect and affinity for these peoples' genuineness, sincerity and courage. That's why I decided to return to University and study International Journalism, with a focus on constructive, positive and solutions journalism. (So, I'm a good example of the life-long learning concept, indeed...:)
 

The Erasmus+ traineeship opportunity within this second MA effort is what brought me to Utopia 500 in Porto. I feel privileged to have met these great open-minded people, who foster the utopian values into modern society. In Utopia 500 I will surely grow personally and expand my potential as a journalist and as a media researcher. And I also enjoy conducting workshops on sustainability in secondary schools in Porto.

Hungary

Hi, my name is Timi, I’m from Pécs, Hungary. I have a degree in History, with English as a minor and currently I am studying International Relations at the University of Pécs. I came to Porto, to work with Utopia500 to complete my internship necessary for my second degree. I have chosen this opportunity because I wanted to work in an international environment with a creative team and I can say I am not disappointed at all! It was delightful to work in such an environment, while I also had the possibility to practice creative writing, and improve my writing skills in English – as I was writing for the blog of Utopia500.

Latvia

Bom dia! I am Hermine from Rīga – the capital of Latvia and I graduated from Latvian Academy of Culture where I studied ‘Intercultural relations between Latvia, the Netherlands and Germany’. To broaden my horizons of knowledge I chose to come to Porto and join the project Utopia500. Here I mainly work on Great Utopians, because it is a way to learn more about inspiring brilliant people and to raise some discussions in regards to that.

Poland

Hello! My name is Aleksandra, but everyone calls me Fasola. I am from Bydgoszcz, a city in central Poland. Recently I’ve finished my studies of International Relations at the University of Nicolaus Copernicus, and after my studies I had the opportunity to participate in Utopia500 project. I like to work in this friendly and creative atmosphere where everyone is focused on the idea of Utopia. For me it is very personal because in my country I am also involved in ecological movements and social equality movements. I would like to continue my journey in life with the ideas I’ve found here.

Spain

Hola! My name is Sara and I am currently finishing my studies on English Philology at Universidad Complutense in Madrid. I have always wanted to move to Portugal and experience its culture, as I find it a great country with amazing people. Another goal that I wanted to achieve is to contribute making this world a better place, and Utopia500 is not only a great opportunity to start doing so, but also to improve my writing skills through the blog and grow as a multicultural person (this is the fourth country I live in!). I am looking forward to enjoy this experience as much as I can and contribute in the project with people with the same interests.

United States

Hello, my name is Evan Chernicky from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I am currently going into my fourth and final year studying at Denison University in Ohio where I am studying Communication and Political Science. After studying at Universidade Nova de Lisboa for a semester, I decided to stay in Portugal to work with the Guestbook Project at Utopia 500.

I am extremely excited and eager to work within Utopia as the first intern from the United States. I am looking forward to improving the world we live in, working within an extremely multicultural and diverse environment, and living in the beautiful city of Porto, Portugal!

Estonia

My name is Kristin. I study photography at the art college of Estonia. Besides being fully commiting my life to art (design, photograpy, etc.), I am also an acroyoga teacher. During the last 4 years I have been trying to find the solutions to help our mother earth sustain as it is.

After being one year exchange student in Porto, I fell in love with this wonderful place, so I decided to bring all my intrests together. Here I am, living my dream life in Porto, working as a photographer for Utopia, teaching acroyoga, doing some design jobs for estonian entreprises and trying to give my best to share everything from myself to keep this nature around us blooming for a long long time! Namaste!

Hungary

Hi. My name is Dora. I'm a Hungarian diplomacy student and in the year of 2016 I felt I'm not living my life to the fullest yet so I decided to try/find myself in an other country, to get to know other people and cultures, etc.

I can confess I am the luckiest, because all of these above-mentioned "wishes" came true and I haven't felt happier, so as I got back to Hungary in January 2017 from studying in Porto for 5 months, I started to search for an internship which is not only connected to my fields of study but to my personal interests as well.

I think the Utopia is something that can make us grow and can the society make grow too, and exactly this is what I expect from the diplomatic era. Prosperity and peace can not happen without the will of people, we all should think utopian and protect our and our next generation's future.

Italy

Hello! I am Ilaria and I am from a small city near Venice, in Italy. I just graduated in Comparative and Postcolonial Literature, at the University of Bologna. I am interested in the way literature portrays society and the most universal, but intimate human troubles. I joined this project because I do believe that literature can be part of this and I am enthusiastic to work with a team of people who comes from all over the world, showing how different and similar we are. I am also interested in the deconstruction of the idea that great utopians are unreachable genius: we are all great minds and we all have the power to make the Utopia real.

Portugal

Hello! I’m Sara and I’m born and raised in Porto. I’m currently finishing my bachelor degree in Communication Sciences. I chose Utopia 500 as my Multimedia final project as a chance to work in an international environment without leaving home. I’m also interested in sustainability and I’m looking forward to work for a better world overall, so this project fits like a glove.

Italy

Hi! I’m Laura and I’m from Parma, a small town in the north of Italy. I’m keen on creative writing, literature and journalism. In December I graduated in political sciences at the University of Bologna with a final thesis based on dystopic literature and in February I joined Utopia500 project. I think this project is a great opportunity to work in a challenging and international environment and to enrich my skills and my knowledges. Last but not least, I’m delighted to have the possibility to spend a period of my life in an amazing city as Porto.

Spain

Hi, I am Clara from León, a small city in the north of Spain. I´m doing my final degree project in journalism, which is about how media treat the issue of climate change. It´s been two weeks since I´m in porto and I find the Utopia project very interesting and such a good experience to get in contact with people from other countries. Also, the city of Porto is amazing and has a lot of great things to offer.

Italy

Hello, I’m Serena Ciaraglia from Rome – Italy. I recently graduated in Language and Literature from La Sapienza University. I came to Porto to join the Utopia500 Project in February. I’m very glad to be part of the Utopia team and to be given this opportunity to work in an international environment. During my stay in this enchanting city, I hope to improve my language skills and to explore the Portuguese culture.

Italy

Hi. I am Paolo. I am from Italy, where I studied at the Accademia of Fine Arts in Rome. Now I have the opportunity to experience at the same time both working and university life in Portugal. In the team I am the creative one. For me, it is an honour to be an Utopian! Thanks so much to the project, the team and Porto for this amazing experience.

Turkey

Howdy, all! My name is Murat Emre, and I am from Istanbul, Turkey. I recently graduated with a Computer Programming degree and came to Porto with a European internship grant. I am a certified Information Technology specialist, and I have been in the IT field for well over six years. I am currently trying to specialize in full-stack web application development, as well as mobile application development. My primary focus in the team was to act as a webmaster and to set up servers as well as to configure them accordingly. It was truly an honor to be in Porto, particularly at the University of Porto; the most friendly team members I have ever seen...

Ireland

Hi, my name is James Wray and I am from Wicklow (Ireland). I recently graduated in Music and Instrument Technology with Business. My contributions to the Utopia 500 project among other tasks is to set up and produce the Podcast “Voices of Utopia”. I am very glad to be given this opportunity to gain some practical experience in an area I am deeply interested in. I have been here in Porto almost one month now and am very happy knowing I get to stay in this beautiful city until July.

Bulgaria

Hello, my name is Viktoriya Lazarova from Bulgaria. I recently finished my master degree in music and I am a pianist and a piano teacher. I came to Porto in October and I am really happy to be here, working for this wonderful project “Voices of Utopia” where we get to learn more and also make people talk about the Portuguese culture, language, history, lifestyle and art environment . I find this opportunity really interesting and educational. It is a new experience in my life and I am more than glad to embrace it!

Romania

Hello! I’m Maria from Bucharest, Romania. I studied Piano Performance at Transilvania University of Brasov, where I finished my Master Degree the last July. I am doing the internship for the Utopia 500 program within an Erasmus Mobility for recent graduate. I started working at the beginning of October and I will be staying in Porto four months. I am very happy for having the chance to work in an international environment with many people from different backgrounds.

Poland

Hi! I am Aleksandra, 22 years old from Poland. I am in my last year of University finishing my master degree in Graphic Design. Within two last years I took my chances and tried living in other countries like Greece, Slovakia. Recently for over 4 months I am exploring Portuguese culture.

China

Born in Shanghai, China, freelance translator, world traveler. Graduated from Shanghai University with a Master’s degree in Translation and Interpreting and a Bachelor’s degree in English; minor in International Economics in East China Normal University, I am currently studying the Erasmus Mundus Master’s Programme in Euroculture in the University of Goettingen, Germany. I come to Porto for my internship as a researcher on food studies in Utopia 500 project, a great team with members from various backgrounds and countries. We believe that food studies are getting really important and together we are working towards a better society, while tackling with the issue of food waste.

Turkey

Hello! I’m Pelin, 24 years old newly graduated student from Turkey. I have graduated in Communication Design from Sabanci University. I came to Porto in September to join the Utopia500 project. I am very happy to be a part of it. I am excited to explore this beautiful city!

Turkey

Hello, I’m Pınar Eryaşar from Istanbul – Turkey. I graduated from Istanbul Kültür University with a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations. In addition, I studied European Studies in Comenius University in Bratislava for 6 months. I came to Porto in the beginning of September and I’m planning to stay in Porto and work for Utopia 500 Project for 3 months. In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can. Here in Utopia Project, there is a flawless teamwork that makes an effort for changing world in a good way. And I can’t wait for exploring this peaceful city and I'm excited to take a part in this educatory and motivator project.

Spain

Hi! My name is Ana and I am from a town close to Santiago de Compostela, in Galicia (North of Spain). I am in my last year of University finishing my degree in Translation and Interpretation Studies. Because I wanted to take part in this project I decided to study by distance learning and stay a whole year in the wonderful city of Porto. Apart from my love for foreign languages I also love writing and volunteering. I am an activist for Human Rights through the articles I post on my blogs and my action through several organisations I collaborate with.

Chile

I’m Michelle and I’m from Patagonia in Chile. I am originally based in Berlin, and find myself finishing my MA in English Studies at the Freie Universität Berlin while participating in Utopia 500 in Porto for four months. I hold a BA in English Literature and Linguistics, and have also a degree in Arts. I’m interested in emancipating literary ideas in contexts beyond academia so to empower independent thinking, which is one of the main reasons why I am so thrilled to be part of this project.

Turkey

Hi, i'm Emir, 90 born from Istanbul, Turkey. I graduated from Kadir Has University in 2016 where i studied Interior Architecture and Environmental Design. I also studied at the SUSI (Study of the United States Institutes) for Student Leaders on Global Enviromental Issues in 2013. I'm interested in 2D & 3D computer aided design programs as well as humanitarian-enviromentalist aspects of any kind. I'm glad that i'll be part of Utopia project starting from September for two months.

Romania

Hi! My name is Elena Popescu and I am from Romania. I am 24 years old and I just graduated in Textile Design, in Faculty of Decorative Arts and Design in Bucharest. I came to Porto in July to join the international team of Utopia 500 project for my exange program in order to develop my creative skills and to learn new and interesting things from the nice people I am working with. Besides that I am also planning to enjoy the sunny country and to learn the Portuguese language.

Poland

Hello! I'm Justyna, 22 years old student from Poland, Cracow. I study Teleinformatics and I came to Porto to do an internship in Utopia 500 project - my web developing skills are needed. Porto is a beautiful city which has a lot to offer so let's explore it!

Slovakia

Hi, I´m Daniela, 23 years old and I´m from Slovakia. I recently finished my master in Landscape architecture. I saw this internship as a chance to extend my knowledge and experience and work in an international environment. I´m excited to get to know Portuguesse culture and language better. In Utopia project I help with design and all the multimedia stuff.

Spain

Hi! My name is Marta and I am from Vigo, a small city in the northwest of Spain. I am 22 years old and I have just finished my degree in Comparative Literature in Madrid, in which I wrote my thesis about dystopian novels. Now I am moving from dystopia to utopia here at Porto, and I am very happy to have the opportunity to contribute to this project!

Turkey

Hey! My name is Nihan from Kadir Has University in Turkey. I am 23 years old and already graduated from Advertising and Radio, Television & Cinema departments. It's my third week in Porto and also in the project, Utopia500. I mostly work for the communication and promotion fields of the project. Porto is a quite nice city to live especially in sunny days with delicious Porto wines!

Turkey

Ola! My name is Sabri Ege. I’m from Turkey and I’m graduated from Communication Faculty of Kadir Has University (2016) with the bachelor thesis of “Understanding of Michel Foucalult’s Panopticon in the Digital Age”. I studied in Poland, Iran and Philippines as an exchange student during my study. I’m going to stay in Porto as an Erasmus+ during the summer session of 2016. There is no any sentence to define how beautiful Porto is… The only thing I can say is I’m in love with this amazing city!

Turkey

Hi! My name is Buse. I’m 24 years old and I’m from Istanbul, Turkey. I graduated from Kadir Has University. I have a bachelor’s degree in Advertising. I came to Porto three weeks ago. I’m mostly working on communication field of the project. It is really nice to be a part of this international project. Also, it is truly cool to drink tasty wines in beautiful Porto.

Turkey

Olá! My name is Sadettin, 23 years old student from Turkey. I graduated public relations and new media department at Kadir Has University in June 20. I came in Porto under the Erasmus Mobility Program to facilitate the Utopia 500 projects and its subprojects for three months. During my internship in Porto University I joined the USS conference and helped as a stuff. My main role in here is creating interactive contents like charts, infographics and maps with data and helping others as well. Aside from project, Literally I've fallen in love with Porto. Porto is a fascinating city with its food, wine, people, history and architectural beauties. I'm glad to be here :)

Hungary

Hey! My name is Dorottya Haris and I am from Hungary. I am 25 years old and I have  just finished my master’s degree in Applied Management. I came to Porto in June to join the Utopia500 project for my exchange program abroad.  I really enjoy being part of this international team and getting to know new people and cultures. Porto is an amazing city and  I am looking forward to discovering all of its hidden beauties! 

Turkey

Hello! My name is Bilgesu, I’m 23 years old and I’m from Ankara, the capital of Turkey. I am currently studying American Culture and Literature at Hacettepe University, Ankara and I will be graduating in January 2017. I came here to Porto in May of this year and started working with the Utopia 500 team in June. My main area of work is on the Great Utopians subproject, in which I write and organise the bionotes for all of our Great Utopians. Aside from the project, being in Porto is amazing and I absolutely love all the history, architecture and perfect sceneries. I am very happy to be here!

Croatia

Hi! My name is Petra and I’m from Rijeka, Croatia. I have been living in Ljubljana, Slovenia for the past few years and I am currently finishing my MA degree in English language and literature. I moved to Porto in June 2016 and have joined the Utopia 500 team with hopes to contribute to the development of the project and the dissemination of Utopian ideas. 

Germany

Hey! I am Christina, 24 years old and I’m from a small town close to Hamburg, Germany. In March, I graduated in International Business Studies from Paderborn University. Since April, I have been working here in Porto on the Utopia 500 Project, especially on Sounds of Utopia, media and communication as well as management strategies. I really enjoy working on this project as there is a great team behind it and it is based on a good cause.

Poland

Hi! My name is Anna, I’m 25 and I’m from Kraków, Poland. I graduated in October 2015 in History. I’m here in beautiful Porto taking part in the Utopia 500 Project, manly in Sounds of Utopia (I’m trying to contact as many schools and musicians as I can to encourage them to participate in our challenge) and I am also writing articles for our blog. I'm thrilled to be here and have an opportunity to contribute to this initiative which can have a real impact on changing the world. Beside this, I’m looking forward to more sunny days and to trying more of the famous porto wine.

United KIngdom

Hi! I’m Alex, I’m 21 years old and I live in Melton Mowbray (near Nottingham) in England. I am currently in the third year of my BA Modern Languages degree at the University of Bristol and am working here in Porto on the Utopia 500 project as part of my year abroad. My main job here at the moment is in proofreading and translating but I’m also involved in organising the USS Conference in Lisbon this summer and helping out wherever else I can be of use! During my 5 months here I hope to improve my Portuguese as well as to take full advantage of the Port wine this city is so famous for!

United Kingdom

Hello! My name is Matthew and I’m from the UK. I’m 22 years old and an undergraduate student studying Modern Languages at the University of Bristol. I’m here in sunny Porto to work with the Utopia 500 project and learn more about the beautiful Portuguese language!

Portugal

Hi! I'm Cláudia, 21 years old from Porto, Portugal. I'm studying communication sciences with a major in multimedia. I am still an undergraduate student and I saw this internship as an opportunity to launch and improve myself as a professional and also as a person.

In the Utopia 500 project my main work is managing the website, making videos, communication design and all things to do with multimedia!

Turkey

Hello! I am Begüm, I am 24 years old and I come from İstanbul, Turkey. I recently graduated from university where I studied Economics. In addition to this, I studied Business Administration in Paris for 6 months. I have been working on the Utopia 500 project and living in Porto since January. First of all, I am really happy to be in Porto. It is a marvellous city in so many ways and has some awesome people. What is really great about working on this project is that I am able to meet lots of great people and have the chance to get to know some Great Utopians. Within this project I mainly work on the International Conference and the Great Utopians subproject, but I also try to help others in any possible way I can, which helps me to improve myself as well! :)

Turkey

Hello, I am Burak from Turkey (İstanbul). I am 23 years old. I graduated from Kadir Has university. I have a bachelor’s degree in International Finance (major) and Public Relations (minor).  I have been working on this project since the beginning of January. I am trying to contribute to every part of the project but I am mostly working on communication and funding. It is a great opportunity to work on this international project, but as well as this Porto is an amazing city. I am really glad to be here.

China

Hey, I am Qi Sun from China. After I graduated from Linkoping University in Sweden, I joined the Erasmus Mundus programme, studying Management and Innovation of Higher Education. Before I started my internship in Porto, I worked as a trainee at CEREC organising the Finn-Sino Education Forum, 2014, and also had an internship at the Swedish Council for Higher Education. I am very glad that I can experience new challenges at the University of Porto. I am currently working with the teams organising the International Conference, the Arus Network and Events.

Italy

My name is Beatrice, I am a 25 year old Italian. I hold a BA in Linguistics and Foreign Languages and am currently studying for a MA in International Relations. I have lived and travelled in many countries, among these France, Germany, Russia and Poland. My contribution to the Utopia 500 project is the "Sounds of Utopia" music project, as well as a few initiatives to promote the project around the world. Working on this project is a "utopian" experience in itself and I can only recommend it!

Poland

Hi, My name is Artur and I am from Poland. I was part of the Utopia500 project for two and a half months. It was a great experience and I had a lot of fun doing it. It was a great opportunity to learn about Porto and Portugal. Obrigado!

Lithuania

I am Viktorija from Vilnius (Lithuania), 23 years old, I have a Bachelor’s degree in Publishing. I’m currently in Porto on a traineeship for postgraduates. In "Utopia 500" I am involved in the section devoted to music – "Sounds of Utopia", and also contribute to communications.

After the first month spent here I already have plenty of things to say. In short, Portugal, and Porto in particular, is a very colourful place in all senses of the word: the weather, people, landscapes and architecture. So when you are here, you can not help but add another shade to the unique painting that is Porto!

Italy

Hi, I’m Martina, 23 years old, from Italy. After finishing my Bachelor’s Degree in Arts and Humanities I needed to breathe some fresh air, so when I found out about the postgraduate traineeship for the Utopia500 project in Porto, I instantly decided to join it. As this is my first experience abroad I’m trying to learn as much as possible and face new challenges in order to enrich my personality. I’m in love with this city and its open people. After 4 months I can say that I am very grateful to be part of such a beautiful and utopian project in an international environment. I’m currently working on the PAN-Utopia project that has been developed to reduce food waste.

Greece

I am a 23-year-old Athens-born travel enthusiast who holds a BA in Interpreting and soon will finish with a MA in Translation. I studied in Corfu, the island of my heart, and use foreign languages as a passport to different cultures. I left Corfu and Greece for Porto and Portugal, allured by Port wine and Fado music. Within the framework of my traineeship in the project "Utopia500", I am a member of the working groups on the International Conference and the educational program "Pan-utopia 2100".

Poland

Hi! I am Jakub, I am 25 years old and I come from Lodz, Poland. I graduated from the University of Lodz with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, specialization: Political Marketing. I finished my Master’s Degree in Foreign Policy and Security Strategy in September 2015. I am a creative person and I am not afraid of challenges. I am interested in music production, sport and politics. I came to Porto in order to expand my knowledge of the Utopia 500 project. In particular, I am developing and working on media contact and PAN-Utopia. However, I also try to help all of the team in many tasks the best I can. I will stay in Porto until March 2016.

Poland

Hi! My name is Filip. I'm 25 years old. I recently graduated with a MA in Political Science at the University of Lodz. Previously, I was working at the Polish Embassy in London and then I moved to Porto in November 2015. My motivation in life is to confront new challenges and gain new experiences everywhere I go. I'm currently very glad to be a member of the Utopia 500 Team. I've joined the Pan Utopia subproject to cooperate with my colleagues on tasks aiming to encourage and inspire young people from across the globe to change our world. Unfortunately, my time in Porto will finish in March, but for now I am enjoying my life in Portugal!

Lithuania

I’m Diana Jablonskaja from Vilnius, Lithuania. I have a Bachelor’s degree in English Philology and a Master’s degree in Translation, both acquired at Vilnius University. I have taken some Portuguese classes back in my country and then visited Portugal several times because I am fascinated by its cities, language, food, music and culture in general. I am really excited to be staying here in Porto until the middle of February where I will be working on the Utopia 500 project. I am developing and working on Sounds of Utopia.

Turkey

I’m Dilara Renkver from İstanbul, Turkey. I graduated from the Radio, TV and Cinema department of Marmara University, and I’m looking to continue my education with a Master’s Degree in Animation – Stop Motion. I came to Portugal-Azores in 2013 with the Erasmus programme during my final year. For 2 years I’ve been studying, living and working in Portugal and learning Portuguese. When I was searching for an internship I found this opportunity and I’m really happy to be a part of it. My role in the project is Video-Editing. And, of course, I’m also trying to help out the project in any way.

Slovenia

I’m a student of industrial design at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Ljubljana. I was working on Utopia500 project for three months, mainly focusing on visuals, project visual identity and merchandise design. My stay in Porto was an interesting experience, not only professionally but spiritually as well.   

Slovenia

Hi. My name is Miha, 25 years old, from Slovenia. I study Economy. I'm finishing my masters study from Entrepreneurship, and I will be here in Porto for 5 months. My job here is mostly focused on marketing. Oh, and I can ride a bicycle without extra wheels!

Slovenia

I'm student of sociology and anthropology in University in Ljubljana. To come to Porto and work on the project Utopia500 was a quick and spontaneous decision that was made the moment after my friend Miha, who was back then already in Porto, told me about his internship and aims of the Project Utopia500. I was thrilled and few days later I already had all the papers signed and plane ticket in my pocket. As it usually happens, spontaneous decisions turn out to be the best ones. Both team and project are fulfilling as well as inspirational. My work here is creating PanUtopia and crowdfunding campaign.

UK

I’m Chloe, from the UK. I’m 22 and recently graduated with a BA in Latin American Studies. I am working on the Pan-Utopia project, encouraging young people across the world to take action to reduce food waste.

Serbia

My name is Milica Živanović, I am a Graphic Designer Trainee from Serbia. I am working on the International Conference Utopia 500 website redesign and POS materials.’

Ukraine

Hi,I'm 21-year old Ukrainian who holds a degree in English philology. I have studied in Poland, spent half a year in Spain and now I'm living in heart of North West Portugal, magnificent Porto. I was the first trainee to arrive and start developing "Utopia500" project and since then I was involved in all the sections of the project. It is an honor to be a part of this great team.

Poland

Hello! I’m Magda from Poland. I joined the Utopia 500 project in October, soon after finishing my Master’s degree in Hispanic American Literature at the Complutense University of Madrid, Spain. I’m going to stay in Porto until January. I’m working on ARUS (Advanced Research in Utopian Studies) network and on the “500 Years of Utopia” Conference which will be held at the University of Lisbon in July 2016. I visited Porto twice before coming here this year and I liked the city very much. This time I’m going to dedicate my free time to improving my Portuguese.

Indonesia

My name is Audry Maulana. I am originally from Jakarta, Indonesia and currently studying Political Science and International Relations for my Master’s degree in Istanbul, Turkey. Besides being a part of the wonderful team working on Utopia 500, I am currently working on my thesis on the subject of the European Union and democratisation. Before coming to Porto, I did not realise just how beautiful the city was; it is one of the most incredible places I have ever lived in. Portuguese people are kind, helpful, and make you feel like you are at home almost instantly. In my spare time I love to listen to folk music, cook and experiment with food, and just walk around beautiful Porto and try to absorb the vibe of the city.

United Kingdom

Hi, I am Pablo and  I am 21-year-old undergraduate student from the University of Bristol where I study Spanish and Portuguese. This is my third year/ year abroad and so I am here in the lovely city of Porto trying to improve my Portuguese and learn more about Portuguese/ Lusophone culture. My role within the Utopia500 project is working on the ‘Great Utopians’ section, as well as supporting the team in any way that I can.

Turkey

Olá, I am Burak Yalcin, was born and live in Istanbul/Turkey. I graduated from Istanbul Kultur University where I studied International Relations. This is my second stay in Porto; the first time I came here as a tourist. I am really happy to be member of this project in the amazing city of Porto.

Macedonia

My name is Simona and I come from Macedonia. I have a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia and am currently finishing my Master’s degree in English Language Teaching. I’ve contributed to "Utopia 500" in the "Great Utopians" part of the project since September 2015.’

Slovakia

My name is Klaudia. I'm 24 years old and I'm from Slovakia. I am currently working on the Utopia 500 project in Porto, Portugal. I'm very glad to be part of this amazing project and working in this international environment. This opportunity is shaping my personality and will expand my views on young people.

Turkey

Hi. I am Mert. I am from Turkey, where I study Public Relations in Istanbul. I was one of the very first members of the Utopia 500 family. I spent the summer of 2015 in Porto thanks to the project. I had the opportunity to experience at the same time both working and university life in Portugal. In the team I created an online database system to collect the contact information of our audience, for example: universities, publishers etc. For me, it is an honour to be a Utopian. Thanks so much to the project, the team and Porto for this amazing summer experience.

Turkey

Olá! I am Ahmet from Turkey. It was a real pleasure for me and I am very proud to have been one of the first interns in the Utopia-500 Project. Porto and Utopia-500 were very useful experiences for me. I really liked the project and its vision. I will never forget the 3 months I spent at the University of Porto. Porto and Portugal will always be in my heart. Obrigado Universidade do Porto!

Turkey

Hello! I’m Burcu from Istanbul, Turkey. I’m studying International Relations at Istanbul Kültür University. I came to Porto at the end of my junior year in June 2015. Staying in Porto for 2 months was one of my best experiences. It was such a pleasure to be one of the first trainees to start developing “Utopia 500”. While I was mainly responsible for translation (English to Turkish) and the creation of a database together with my colleagues, I tried to assist the team with any task during my internship. When we first started working on it, we were thrilled with our project. Looking at all the improvements and hearing all the great news here in Istanbul now, I feel proud of both “Utopia 500” and all the trainees who have contributed to it. I am happy to have been a part of this amazing team!

Greece

I am a 35-years old undergraduate student in Commerce and Marketing of the Technological Institution of Crete. I hold a BA in German Language and Literature and a MSc in Gender and New Education and Labour Environments in Information Society of the University of Aegean. I am also an English and German teacher. I was one of the first trainees of the "Utopia500" project and I was really glad about it.