Salome Brügger is 24 years old and has been involved in the imagine youth project at terre des hommes schweiz for three years. The prospective Master’s student in clinical psychology works in catering and in infrastructure and security at the imagine festival.
How did you come to imagine?
Even during high school, imagine was a highlight for me as a visitor because it is open to the public and free for everyone. The festival is also worth a visit for the music. When an acquaintance told me in 2016 that it was possible to work for imagine, I became interested in taking part the following year. There are various volunteer positions, such as the crockery and cup return point. I worked there for three years afterwards. After the festival, there is always a thank-you party for the helpers, as they do voluntary work. Unfortunately, I was never able to attend the thank-you parties as I always had vacation plans. Since summer 2021, I have been working in the project coordination (PK) of imagine.
Was it always clear to you which areas you wanted to work in?
It was very clear to me that I wanted to join the Gastro, Infrastructure, Security (GIS) working group. Personally, I would say that being creative is not difficult for me, but I’m not that extroverted. I’m basically a person who prefers to be behind the camera rather than in front of it. That’s why I really enjoy the structured nature of GIS. My tasks include writing down the required infrastructure, such as tents and food stands. For the food stands, I then think about which ones are needed and how many. The aim of my work at the festival is to ensure that visitors are well fed and feel comfortable.
Last year was your first year in PK, what will be special for you this year?
It’s cool for me to be part of the working group for the second time this year. Last year, I learned a lot that I can incorporate this year so that it’s a little less stressful and I can also enjoy the festival as an employee. The routine I’ve gained will certainly be an advantage this year.
What do you get out of working at imagine?
By working on the project, you get to know new, great people who make the festival happen. In turn, new friendships arise from the collaboration. In terms of my work at imagine, I have gained a lot of confidence in myself. At the beginning, it took quite a bit of effort on my part to write to large companies to ask for an offer. I learned to take responsibility and that as a young person you don’t have to be afraid of contacting large companies.
And your plans for the future?
At the moment, I can’t say goodbye to imagine yet and I plan to stay for a while. I would love it if I could introduce my successor at some point and show him or her that you don’t have to be afraid of the work. One thing is certain, I will remain loyal to the festival as a visitor, even if I am no longer actively working at imagine at some point.
The interview was conducted by Noah Senn, community service volunteer at terre des hommes schweiz
