The third episode of PodMudar, a podcast from Universidade Católica, supported by Renascença and dedicated to the volunteer stories of students and alumni, features Vasco Câmara, who is pursuing an Undergraduate Degree in Law at the Católica Lisbon School of Law and is an active volunteer in various social intervention initiatives. 

At just 21 years old, his journey has already been marked by commitment and solidarity. Since 2022, he has participated in various volunteer projects and is currently involved with the Pegadas association, where he works with children and youth from low-income neighborhoods in Cascais and Lisbon. Over the past few years, he has also collaborated with Missão País and the Equipas de Jovens de Nossa Senhora, helping to organize and lead community activities. 

In conversation with Rita Curvelo of the Faculty of Human Sciences, who speared this initiative, Vasco reflects on the role young people can play in building a more compassionate society and on the importance of creating opportunities for more students to discover the impact of community service. 

The episode also explores the transformative potential of these experiences, not only within the communities they support but also in the personal development of those who participate in them. For Vasco, volunteering is an experience of encountering others, but also of encountering oneself: “When I dedicate myself to others, in a very paradoxical way, I also find myself and identify with myself.” 

Drawing on his own experience, the student addresses topics such as active citizenship, youth organizations, and the ability of volunteering to promote behavioral change, develop skills, and strengthen a sense of social responsibility. Throughout the conversation, he also shares some of the most memorable lessons from his work with children and young people and challenges listeners to learn about and support the work of Pegadas, an association dedicated to supporting people in situations of greater social vulnerability. 

As part of the celebrations of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, PodMudar will give a voice to students and alumni of Universidade Católica, seeking to inspire the academic community to engage in volunteering and social impact projects. 

The third episode is now available on Católica’s Spotify channel or at popcasts.pt.