An interview with Aurélie, who joined Swappie in Leipzig for one day for the 22nd Genialsozial action day on June 30th 2026 - Saxony’s largest youth solidarity project where students swap school desks for a workplace to donate their wages to social projects.

👋 Who are you?

"Hi! I'm Aurélie, I'm 13 years old and today I'm spending my genialsozial day here at Swappie. I'm Stephanie's daughter, but today I'm not here as her daughter — I'm here as part of the team." 😊

❓Why did you want to join Swappie?

"I've known about Swappie for quite a while when mum was talking about work at home, so I was always curious about what actually happens here.

Last summer I got a little sneak peek behind the scenes. I spent some time here while waiting for my mum before we left for Hamburg, and I even helped with a few design ideas for posters. Another time we stopped by after one of my swimming competitions during the Christmas peak, and I could see how everyone worked together. That made me even more curious.

So when I had the opportunity to choose a company for genialsozial, I immediately thought of Swappie because I wanted to experience it myself.

I also love meeting new people, speaking English, and learning how an international company works. It's much more exciting than sitting in a classroom for one day!"

❓What do you like most so far?

"Everyone has been really welcoming, and I love that they trust me with real tasks instead of just watching. It makes me feel like I'm actually contributing to the team.

I think the coolest part so far was getting a look inside an iPhone. A colleague showed me how to open it, how to check for water damage and even how to safely remove a swollen battery. I never knew how much work goes into refurbishing a phone, so it was really interesting to see it in real life instead of just watching a video or reading about it."

❓What happens with the money you earn today?

"That's actually my favourite part. My salary isn't for me. It's donated to help other people."

"Half of the money supports projects around the world that help children and young people. This year, for example, it helps build a vocational training centre in Rwanda, improve healthcare for newborn babies and families in Mongolia, and build a hospital in a refugee camp in Algeria. The projects are even chosen by young people themselves, which I think is really cool."

"Another part of the money stays here in Saxony and supports local social projects, for example projects for disadvantaged children, youth centres, food banks, or school initiatives."

"And a small part helps organize the program so thousands of students can take part every year."

❓Why do you think this project is important?

"I think it's a great opportunity because you learn what working is like, meet lots of different people, and at the same time you can help others. It's a really nice way to connect learning with doing something meaningful. There are so many ways to make a difference. You can volunteer, help your neighbour, pick up litter, learn about other cultures, or simply be kind to people. Today, this is my way of contributing; and I hope everyone finds their own."

Huge thanks to Aurélie for bringing so much energy and curiosity to our Leipzig office!