Salome Brügger is 24 years old and has been involved in the imagine youth project of terre des hommes switzerland 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?
Already during high school imagine was a highlight for me as a visitor, because it is public and free for everyone. The festival is also worth a visit because of the music. When an acquaintance of mine told me in 2016 that it was possible to work for imagine, I became interested in participating the next year. There are various positions for helpers, such as the return point for dishes and cups. I worked at this one for three years afterwards. After the festival, there is always a thank-you party for the helpers, since they do voluntary work. Unfortunately, I could never be present at the thank-you parties because I always had vacation plans. Since summer 2021 I am now in the project coordination (PK) of imagine.
Was it always clear to you in which areas you wanted to work?
It was very clear to me that I wanted to join the Gastro, Infrastructure, Safety (GIS) working group. Personally, I would say that being creative is not difficult for me, however, I am not that extroverted. I am basically a person who prefers to be behind the camera rather than in front of it. That's why the structured part of GIS is very comfortable for me. The tasks include writing down the infrastructure needed, such as tents and food stalls. For the food stalls, I then think about which ones are needed and how many. The goal of my work at the festival is that the visitors are fed and feel comfortable.
Last year was your first year in PK, what will be special for you this year?
For me, it's cool that this year is the second time I've been part of the working group. Last year, there were a lot of learnings for me that I can incorporate this year, so that it will be a little less stressful and I can enjoy the festival as a staff member as well. The routine I have gained will certainly be an advantage for me this year.
What does working at imagine give you?
Working on the project, you get to know new, great people who put the festival on its feet. In turn, new friendships develop from the collaboration. In terms of my work at imagine, I have gained a lot of confidence in myself. In the beginning, it took quite a bit of effort on my part to write to big companies to ask for a quote. I learned to take responsibility and that as a young person you don't have to be afraid of contacting big companies.
And your plans for the future?
At the moment I can't say goodbye to imagine and I plan to stay for a while. I would like to 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 for sure, I will stay loyal to the festival as a visitor, even if I won't be actively working at imagine anymore someday.
The interview was conducted by Noah Senn, civilian service worker at terre des hommes switzerland
