Ingela wants to become a volunteer during Eurovision

Ingela is one of the 1440 who has applied to be a volunteer during Eurovision. Last time around she took care of transportation, and this year she hopes to become a hospitality host. Johan Rönning, responsible for recruitment, shares what is happening now behind the scenes.

Ingela Draheim is one of many who have applied to be a volunteer during the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 in Malmö. Ingela retired a couple of years ago but didn't quite feel ready for retired life. Now, she works part-time while also volunteering at several events in the city – she has served food and managed transportation at various sports events.

– I enjoy meeting different people, helping others, and being involved in making an event successful. It feels great to give back to Malmö for what Malmö has given to me, says Ingela.

When Eurovision came to Malmö last time, she was just as quick to apply to be a volonteer.

– In 2013, I was part of the transportation center where we coordinated transportation for artists, delegations, and more. What a bubble I was in! The sense of community in Malmö during those weeks was magical, and the team I worked with was so professional. The car volunteers, called "Bilkåristerna", were fantastic.

What made you apply again?

– I want to experience this sense of community once again because I know I'll meet a lot of fantastic people who give energy!

What do you hope to do if you get a volunteer role in 2024?

– This time, I've applied to be a hospitality host and hope to get such a role.

Johan Rönning is responsible for recruiting volunteers and says that around 1440 applications have been received. Now, he and his colleagues will go through all the applications to select about 600 people for twelve different areas.

– It's a big puzzle to put together, and when we're done, notifications will be sent out to all applicants. Those who are accepted will receive an invitation to a kickoff event that we will organize in early February.

What has been the most popular?

– The two most sought-after areas are backstage and delegation hosts, which is not entirely unexpected. One area that stands out is accreditation, where we have received more applications than expected. It's an area that usually isn't prioritized by many applicants at other international events, so it's extra exciting that several people have started applying there, says Johan.