Profile information
Description
Hello!
I'm Alena Mangera-Willeke. I’m originally from Germany, with Indian and German roots, and have lived in a few different places growing up, including Thailand and now the UK. I’ve been based in London since I started university and speak both English and German confidently. I really enjoy meeting new people, learning from different cultures, and exploring new places.
Currently, I’m studying Social Anthropology at SOAS University of London, where I’m exploring how culture, identity and everyday life connect across the globe. I live in London with my partner, who’s doing a master’s in History. Together, we love exploring the city’s art galleries, green parks, and bookshops. I also volunteer regularly at art festivals and galleries, where I help with events, curation, and creative workshops.
Creativity is a big part of who I am, I’m a photographer, mixed media artist (textiles and collage), and writer. I carry my camera everywhere, capturing quiet moments in nature, interesting faces, and small details that often go unnoticed. I love making meaningful connections with people and places, and my creative work is deeply inspired by the landscapes, nature, and stories I encounter while travelling.
I'm passionate about sustainable living: I cycle everywhere, avoid flying where possible, and try to live gently and responsibly. Last summer, I completed three wonderful Workaway experiences across Europe, travelling both solo and with my boyfriend via Interrail. These experiences were full of laughter, learning, and the kind of real, heartfelt conversations that stay with you.
I'm a pescatarian, enjoy slow living, and love cooking meals from scratch. I’d be delighted to help in the kitchen or swap recipes. I’m also a big animal lover (I have a cat called Maggie back in Cambridge!) and would be over the moon to help care for pets, gardens, or outdoor spaces.
People often describe me as warm, confident, calm, and reliable, I take initiative, respect others' space, and find joy in both quiet tasks and lively collaboration. Whether it’s helping with housework, supporting events, looking after animals, or getting creative with a project, I’ll bring positivity and care to whatever I do. :)
I’d love to meet kind hosts, exchange stories, learn new skills, and create something meaningful together, maybe even captured through my lens.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Alena
Interests
DIY & crafts
Fitness
Yoga / Wellness
Writing
Plant care
Music
Events & social
Cooking & food
Photography
Movies & TV
Hiking
Drawing & painting
Charity work
Sustainability
Pets
Mountain
Gardening
Art & design
Self development
Languages
Camping
Vegetarian or vegan
Outdoor activities
Cycling
Books
Animals
Nature
Farming
Culture
Languages
Languages spoken
German: Fluent
English: FluentMore details about my language interests
I am happy to try and teach English as well as improve and practice my own German skills!
Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Eco Projects
Being an elderly companion
Gardening
Life at a Farmstay
Babysitting and creative play
Some knowledge of:
Charity Work
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Helping around the house
General Maintenance
House sitting
Hospitality/Tourism
Able to teach about:
Art Projects
Languages
More details about your skills
Whether it's preparing meals, maintaining cleanliness throughout the household, tending to garden needs, or providing care to children and animals, I can execute each responsibility with diligence. :)
With a clear directive, I am happy to tackling new challenges to the best of my ability! I am also fluent in English and confident in German (which i am hoping to practice more of!)
In summary, I am a reliable, adaptable, and capable contributor, dedicated to ensuring a mutually beneficial experience for hosts. :)
Age
20
What else ...
I love cycling, hiking, swimming and bouldering and playing all sorts of board and card games! :-)
Some more information
Smoker
Driver's licence
Allergies
Special dietary requirements
Pescatarian
Feedback
I had the most wonderful time staying with Audris. From the moment she picked me up at the station, I felt immediately welcomed. Her home is beautiful, full of love, and I was showered with generosity and kindness. Being there in the heart of summer was… read more
Photos
Friends
Feedback
I had the most wonderful time staying with Audris. From the moment she picked me up at the station, I felt immediately welcomed. Her home is beautiful, full of love, and I was showered with generosity and kindness. Being there in the heart of summer was… read more
