Upon arriving in Ankara, I was immediately struck by the city’s unique blend of modernity and tradition. The architecture is stunning, with ancient ruins standing alongside contemporary buildings. However, settling into a new environment can be daunting.
One of my biggest challenges was overcoming the language barrier. Turkish is quite different from English and Georgian, making it difficult to communicate effectively at times. To tackle this issue, my host organization Ander helped me, my teacher leyla used funny and interesting ways to helped me learn essential phrases for daily interactions.
As I settled into life in Ankara, I made it a point to embrace Turkish traditions and customs. From participating in local festivals to trying out traditional sweets like baklava, lukhum... I take part in small projects during my first weeks, each experience has enriched my understanding of this beautiful country.
I also found joy in exploring historical sites such as Anıtkabir (the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk) and the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus. These visits not only provided insight into Turkey’s rich history but also offered opportunities for reflection on my own cultural heritage.
While there have been many positive experiences during my time in Ankara, challenges inevitably arise when living abroad. Adapting to a different pace of life can be overwhelming at times; however, I’ve learned that patience is key.
Reflecting on my journey so far as a individual from Georgia living in Ankara fills me with gratitude for the experiences I’ve gained along the way. While there have been ups and downs, each moment contributes to personal growth and resilience.
As I sit down to reflect on my two-month European Solidarity Corps (ESC) experience in Ankara, Turkey, I am filled with a mix of emotions. This journey has been transformative, offering me not just the chance to contribute to meaningful projects but also an opportunity for personal growth and cultural exchange.
As I conclude my ESC experience in Ankara, I carry with me not only memories but also invaluable lessons about solidarity, cultural appreciation, and community engagement. This journey has reaffirmed my commitment to making a positive impact wherever I go.
I encourage anyone considering an ESC opportunity to embrace it wholeheartedly; it’s more than just volunteering—it’s about building connections that transcend borders.