Ana

Portugal
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Profile information

Travel information
I am currently
At home
Description
Hey there! My name is Ana and I'm from Portugal.

I’ve been really interested in learning more about sustainable living, especially permaculture and animal care. I already have some experience looking after animals and would love to keep improving those skills while discovering new ones. I enjoy spending time outdoors, working with my hands, and being part of a team that shares a love for nature and simple living.
People often describe me as friendly, reliable, and hardworking. I’m easygoing, curious, and always ready to help out wherever I’m needed!
For me, Workaway is a great opportunity to connect with inspiring people, learn from different ways of life, and contribute in a meaningful way.
Interests
Charity work
Mountain
Self development
Outdoor activities
LGBTQ
Cooking & food
Languages
Farming
Writing
Sustainability
Politics / Social justice
Photography
Pets
Nature
Music
Movies & TV
History
Hiking
Culture
Books
Animals
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Portuguese: Fluent
Spanish: Beginner
Italian: Beginner
More details about my language interests
This workawayer has indicated that they would be interested in sharing their language(s) or learning a new language. You can contact them directly to discuss this.
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Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Animal Care
Charity Work
Art Projects
Eco Projects
Gardening
Babysitting and creative play
Languages
Teaching
Some knowledge of:
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Helping around the house
Helping with Computers/ Internet
Able to teach about:
Hospitality/Tourism
More details about your skills
I have a background in Journalism and Communication and worked as a press officer for several years before moving to Iceland. Since then, I’ve been working in hospitality — from housekeeping and breakfast service to cooking in a canteen-style restaurant. Along the way, I discovered a love for cooking, teamwork, and providing good service. I’m a quick learner, adaptable, and always excited to learn something new and contribute wherever I can.
Age
33
Some more information
- Smoker
- Driver's licence
- Allergies
- Special dietary requirements

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18 Aug 2025

Left by host (Non-profit animal sanctuary ...) for Workawayer ()

Ana stayed with us in early January 2025 and her help at the shelter was invaluable. Although she was forced to leave early due to a family emergency, during her time with us she showed great interest and passion for caring for the animals. We could talk about anything with her very comfortably, and she is a person who makes you feel at ease with… read more

(Excellent )

1 Feb 2025

Left by Workawayer () for host (Non-profit animal sanctuary ...)

I spent 12 days here and didn't realize at that time how much this experience has meant to me. Initially, I was supposed to spend three weeks, but unfortunately, and due to family reasons, had to return home earlier - otherwise, I'd stay even longer.

At first, the work can be intimitading - especially if you don't have any previous experience… read more with dogs, like me. I struggled a bit in the beginning to adapt and learn all the tasks, but after three days, I managed to fully accomplish everything that was asked of me - with some extra time to play a bit with the dogs!
The routine is simple: in the mornings (starting at 8:30), we feed the dogs, clean their water buckets and refill with fresh, clean water. We clean their areas (scoop the poop!) and food bowls, if needed. This task may take around 2,5 to 3 hours. We also assist Thomas with whatever he needs when it's time for him to give medicine and treatments to the sick/injured dogs. At the volunteer's area, there are three beautiful cats that we also take care of, by cleaning their litter boxes, feeding them, give them water and cuddle with them! Easy peasy.
In the afternoons, right after lunch, we take the goats out. The volunteers go together at first, but then, when you're more comfortable with the task, you can take turns: one goes with the male goats, the other goes with the female ones. This may take from 1 to 2 hours - or whenever the goats feel ready to go back!

Even though the location is remote, you can easily get to the nearest village (10min walk) and appreciate all the surroundings and the beautiful sunsets. When I started I wasn't so lucky with the weather, but after the rain always comes the sun! I managed to go on walks to the village with the other volunteers that I worked with and embrace the calmness and quietude around us.

Overall, this was an amazing experience thatI'll be forever grateful for. Despite my slow start, I really appreciated being at service of these beautiful animals (cats, dogs and goats) and help Thomas and Diamanto on this honorable task they took upon themselves. It's not an easy one, especially when this shelter doesn't get any government support and only relies on Thomas and Diamanto's good will and some donations. I urge everyone to donate with anything you can, may it be with your time - by volunteering! - or something else that you're comfortable in contributing.

Praise, also, for Diamanto's cooking! She would prepare delicious home made traditional greek food, from soups (chicken soup!!) to stews, to the amazing dessert Halva (that now I'm addicted to).

Thank you so much, Thomas and Diamanto, for letting me be part of this wonderful mission! I hope to return again someday :)

(Excellent )