My Volunteering Adventure

 

Hello!

 It is with a heavy heart that I say my volunteering journey is coming to an end. Even though two months might seem long, time passed in the blink of an eye. During this period, I collected memories that I will never forget- moments that will forever have a place in my heart.

 We started the month off with great momentum. Thanks to the orientation event we attended with other volunteers, I had the opportunity to rediscover Ankara- this time more in- depth. Spending time together in places of historical and cultural value such as Ulus Square, İş Bank Museum, Hacı Bayram Veli Mosque and its bazaar, and Ankara Castle was both educational and incredibly enjoyable.

 Our weekend trip to Bursa was an entirely different experience. In this city full of history, we visited mosques, bazaars, Irgandı Bridge, and the Panorama 1326 Bursa Conquest Museum. Bursa captivated me not only with its architecture but also with its delicious cuisine. The two days I spent there were truly unforgettable.

 In Ankara, we participated in the Disabilities Festival where we set up our own stand and shared both fun and meaningful moments with the attendees. Later, we visited Altındağ Imam Hatip School. We played English games with the children, got to know them, and prepared for a festival together. The fact that they saw me as a teacher, yet approached me with such warmth and friendliness, truly warmed my heart. Finding myself back in a school environment after years was more beautiful than I could have imagined.

 I also took the time to visit the grave of Məmməd Əmin Rəsulzadə, the first president of our Republic and a highly important figure for Azerbaijan. It was a meaningful and special moment for me.

One of the most exciting moments of this month was realizing a childhood dream: visiting Istanbul. From the moment I set foot in the city, I felt how different it was from Ankara. The early morning rush, crowds, and energy- even on the weekend- reminded me time and again that I was in a big city.

 

I began my journey by visiting Mihrimah Sultan Mosque in Üsküdar. The sea view from the mosque was breathtaking. Walking through the charming wooden houses of Kuzguncuk, taking the ferry from Üsküdar to Eminönü, and getting lost in the vibrant streets of Istanbul was indescribable. I loved traveling by ferry so much that I took 4–5 rides in a row. Visiting landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet, the Spice Bazaar, Galata Tower, Taksim, Ortaköy, and more allowed me to feel both the magic of history and the energy of modern life at once.

We also continued visiting village schools this month. Organizing creative workshops for the children and spending time with them helped me reconnect with the joy of childhood. Our activities weren’t limited to schools- we also visited universities. At Lokman Hekim and Hacettepe University, we shared our ESC experiences with students and answered their curious questions. Through these events, I made many new friends.

Speaking clubs, workshops, and various activities filled my days to the brim. This volunteering experience not only gave me beautiful memories, but also added great value to my personal growth and changed my life in a positive way. I am deeply grateful for everything I have gained and the amazing friendships I have formed.

Saying goodbye is never easy- but this time, with so many special memories in my heart, it’s a little harder. This journey will always remain an unforgettable part of my life. Thank you to everyone for everything. I hope our paths cross again someday.