July description

It has already been one month since I arrived in Turkiye and I am halfway through my journey. These past weeks have been full of people, activities, trips, children, and games, so let’s start from the beginning.

I remember my first night, arriving exhausted in Ankara, hungry, and sweaty. The following day I met with the other volunteers from various countries in Europe, Azerbaijan, and of course, Turkiye. We did the first activity and went to eat outside all together, the orientation week had officially begun. We were introduced to the youth center where the main of our activities would take place, we wrote down all our fears and expectations, and reviewed the schedule we would follow. We started to work with the children, painting, doing energizers, playing games and presenting our own countries.
I was pleasantly surprised by their enthusiasm during the activities we did and by their determination to learn English, even though it is not an easy language for them. After the orientation week was done, I was reassigned to another youth center, farther away, but bigger. That place impressed me because of its infrastructure, number of teachers and the many children. As teacher assistants, we were able to choose the classes we wanted to take part in, and we had a lot of options, from football, tennis, basketball, volleyball, cinema to drama, English, arts, music, robotics, and gymnastics. The place was so lively, full of energy, we have been well integrated thanks to the teachers who helped us.

            Ten days after the project started, my friend and I had a great opportunity to travel to another city of the country for over a week. It was still a volunteering project, working with children again, but they were from disadvantaged areas. There I met people from all over the country, we were more or less the same age, but with very different backgrounds. I am grateful because everyone from there tried to include me, get to know me better, to share their culture and treated me like a special guest. I took part of a wonderful group which helped me to understand more deeper the country of Turkiye. I did a ton of activities there, but the most common one was dancing with children. The smiles, the hugs and the small conversations with them remained printed in my memory and marked my journey here.

 We went to mosques, study places, and youth centers to bring joy and happiness. In addition, we did ecological actions, cleaning places around the city, a lake, a cemetery and near our dormitory. We visited many people who had lost their children in wars or terrorist attacks or people with disabilities. Nevertheless, we visited different institutions which offer emergency services in case of an earthquake, and the police authorities. We travelled a lot around the city and around the region in order to reach as many places as possible. We had a lot of fun too, we had the opportunity to see historical sites, local bazaars with traditional clothes and products, and famous tombs. We arrived in two marvellous natural places that truly amazed us: a waterfall and an ice lake. It was an unforgettable experience where I learnt and saw many things and left from there with many friends and memories.

   In the end I returned back to Ankara, where things seemed to have stayed the same, I continued my daily activities with the children, but I returned changed. Now I feel more confident, experienced, fearless and ready to face future challenges. Overall, I can feel the impact of the project on me, in the way I think and in how I see the world. It is not over yet, there are still many lessons to learn and places to discover, but I am entering the new month just as enthusiastic as I was at the beginning, with the same interest, but wiser.

Unique June

 

My volunteering journey, which began in May, turned into an unforgettable experience that left a deep mark on my life. During this time, which passed by in the blink of an eye, I had the chance to meet new people, connect with different cultures, and grow both personally and socially. Each day was a new opportunity to learn and contribute.

June, on the other hand, was the month when this experience reached its peak and found a special place in my heart. Through the Slovakian, Azerbaijani, and Georgian Culture Days, I not only got to know different traditions but also shared in their emotions, energy, and stories. These days reminded me once again how vast the world is, yet how deeply connected we all are.

In addition, the “Leadership and Participation” seminar allowed me to be more than just a participant—it made me an active learner and contributor. The discussions, exchanges of ideas, and workshops all helped me grow, transform, and feel empowered. During this journey, I became more than just a volunteer; I became part of a community, a family.

As the time to say goodbye arrived, memories of the friendships I made, the laughter we shared, and all the challenges we overcame together came flooding back. This has not just been a project for me—it was a life experience. I leave with a mix of sadness and gratitude, because the time I spent here gave me not only knowledge but also a true sense of belonging.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to both the ESC program and ANDER organization for making this entire experience possible. Their constant support, encouragement, and trust in us volunteers transformed this journey into something truly meaningful and unforgettable.

I genuinely hope our paths will cross again—maybe in a different place, through a different project, or simply somewhere along life’s road. Until then, a part of me will always remain here, with the memories, the people, and the moments we created together.

A Month of Meaningful Memories: My Volunteering

June was more than just a month on the calendar—it was a journey filled with learning, connection, and personal growth. As a volunteer, I had the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities that not only enriched the lives of others but also deeply shaped my own perspective.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this month was the time I spent with children in village schools, youth centers, Altındağ Imam Hatip Project schools, and colleges. Through the lessons and workshops we organized, I felt like I was able to truly touch their hearts. It brought me so much happiness to share knowledge, create joyful moments, and offer them new experiences. The laughter we shared and the memories we created together are things I will never forget.

Volunteering has a special place in my life—it brings unforgettable moments and emotional connections. But it’s not just about giving; it's also about growing. I had the chance to attend cultural events organized by my friends from Azerbaijan, Slovakia, and Georgia. These experiences allowed me to dive into different cultures and traditions, opening my eyes to the beauty of diversity. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of this international project, which gave me the opportunity to build

Our youth center was a hub of creativity and learning. Each volunteer led workshops on various topics, sharing their unique perspectives and skills. From speaking clubs for secondary school, high school, and university students, to sessions on self-expression and creativity, every activity played a role in mutual development. Leading these speaking clubs helped me grow in confidence while also supporting the deve.

At the university level, we organized events about ESC (European Solidarity Corps) and Erasmus programs. These moments spent collaborating, learning, and having fun with my peers were some of the most fulfilling parts of the mon.

my june

The first month passed by in the blink of an eye, almost before I could fully grasp that it had even begun. Within this short span of time, I had the opportunity to gain a wide range of new experiences. I actively participated in daily volunteering tasks, joined Turkish and English speaking clubs, had the chance to moderate sessions, attended classes alongside children, and  played a role in organizing many of these activities. Each of these experiences was not only productive but also personally enriching, offering me valuable insights and memories. Still, among all these moments, there were a few specific events that left a lasting impression on me—ones I’d like to share in more detail.

Cultural Nights

This month, I had the pleasure of attending both Georgian and Azerbaijani culturalnights. Each event was unique in its own way, introducing me to different traditions,stories, and perspectives that I hadn’t encountered before. The Azerbaijani night,prepared with care by my fellow volunteer friends from Azerbaijan, was especially close to my heart. Their presentations, the songs they selected, and the effort they put into preparing traditional food were beyond impressive. It was clear how much time and love they had poured into sharing a piece of our shared culture with others, and it made me feel proud and deeply connected. At the Georgian night, thanks to a well-prepared and engaging slideshow by my dear friend Nino, I learned so many things about Georgia that I hadn’t known before, despite it being a neighboring country. We even got the chance to learn how to write our names in Georgian, which was both fun and eye-opening. Later, we tried to follow a few basic steps of traditional Georgian dance, which, with its many variations and lively rhythms, gave us a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. It was a night full of laughter, discovery, and connection.

 A Trip to Istanbul

Of course, a visit to Turkey would not feel complete without experiencing the iconic cityof Istanbul. This month, I made sure to visit, and it did not disappoint. From the stunningviews of the Bosphorus to the nostalgic ferries gliding across the water and thebreathtaking blend of architectural styles, Istanbul is a city that captivates you with itscharm and energy. It's a place that blends history and modern life so seamlessly that youfeel like you’re walking through time. I truly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to see and experience this incredible city at least once in their lifetime.

As I reflect on my second month of volunteering, I feel genuinely grateful and fulfilled. Everymoment has contributed to my growth—both personally and socially—and I’m thankful for allthe connections I’ve made and lessons I’ve learned. I’m looking forward to the experiences thatawait in the upcoming month, hoping it will be filled with just as many meaningful and joyfulmemories!

Time flies so fast…

As I approach the end of my ESC volunteering journey, I can say with full confidence: this experience has been one of the most beautiful and unforgettable chapters of my life.

 I still remember my first days in Türkiye – everything felt new: the language, the people, the environment. I wasn’t sure if I could adapt easily. But now, at the end of my second month, I never imagined saying goodbye would be this hard.

My final month has been nothing short of amazing. The organization we worked with – which quickly became like a second family – not only taught me the true spirit of volunteering but also helped me develop skills in teamwork, coordination, and leadership. Every day brought something new to learn, and I grew so much both personally and professionally.

At Altındağ İmam Hatip School, we had English speaking lessons and joined in their school festivals. At Gülnihal College, we played games, painted faces, and interacted with the children through fun and educational activities. The joy in their eyes and the laughter we shared will stay with me forever.

 We also had weekly speaking clubs where we met new people and discussed meaningful topics. These sessions helped me improve my language and communication skills while building real connections. 

We also attended and helped organize Culture Days and workshops at the office. I learned about Slovakian and Georgian culture, and we had eye-opening discussions about mental health and learning techniques.

 One of the highlights of my experience was organizing my own workshop titled “Human Rights and Social Justice.” It was both exciting and a little nerve-wracking to lead, but it turned out to be an incredible experience. Participants worked in groups to solve real-world problems, and I was truly inspired by their creativity and critical thinking.

 And of course, Azerbaijan Culture Day in Ankara was one of the most emotional moments for me. I had the chance to represent my country, share our traditions, and cook traditional Azerbaijani food. Seeing people enjoy our culture and hearing their kind feedback truly touched my heart.

 During the Eid al-Adha (Qurban Bayramı) holiday break, we also had the chance to travel and explore some of Türkiye’s most beautiful cities – including Istanbul, Cappadocia, Kırıkkale, Nevşehir, and Eskişehir. Each place had its own magic, and the landscapes were absolutely breathtaking. This journey helped me get to know Türkiye more closely, and I completely fell in love with its beauty and culture.

 Participating in the ESC program gave me much more than just volunteer experience – it taught me about life. This journey expanded my worldview, helped me form meaningful friendships, and gave me memories I will cherish forever. Looking back now, I feel nothing but deep gratitude for every moment, every person, and every lesson along the way.

Leaving, But Not Really — Turkey Will Always Stay With Me

As I enter my second month of volunteering in Ankara, I find myself not only growing through my work but also deeply moved by the experiences this journey has brought me. Volunteering has given me the opportunity to connect with new people, contribute to meaningful causes, and, unexpectedly, explore the rich beauty and culture of Turkey.

During this month, I’ve had the chance to travel and see some of the country’s most iconic and breathtaking places. My first trip took me to Istanbul — a city that truly lives up to its legendary status. From the grandeur of Dolmabahçe Palace to the vibrant energy of Taksim Square, Istanbul felt like a living tapestry of history, art, and life.One place that especially stole my heart was Karaköy. It was amazing to walk through a place I had only seen in movies — suddenly, it was all real: the charming streets, the creative spirit, the buzz of local cafes and galleries. It had this cinematic feel that made every corner worth exploring.

Another unforgettable stop was Ortaköy. Sitting by the Bosphorus, with the iconic Ortaköy Mosque framed by the bridge behind it, felt like something out of a postcard. The area was full of life — street vendors, music, and the smell of fresh kumpir filling the air. Eating that warm, overloaded potato while watching the boats pass by was such a simple yet special moment.

And then, there were the Turkish cats — dignified, independent, and strangely royal. They wander the streets like they own them, and perhaps they do. It’s hard not to smile when you see a cat lounging on a store counter or napping in a mosque courtyard, completely at ease.

My next adventure brought me south to Antalya, where the Mediterranean greeted me with endless blue. The sea was incredibly warm, perfect for relaxing swims, and the majestic mountains surrounding the coast created a breathtaking, almost surreal backdrop. The streets were lined with bright, blooming flowers, adding bursts of color to every step I took. But the true highlight was sitting on the beach, watching the sun melt into the sea. The sunsets here are a kind of magic that words can hardly capture — warm, golden, and soul-soothing.

Beyond traveling, this month was also full of educational and cultural experiences through the volunteering work itself. We organized festivals in schools and held meetings with parents to engage the wider community. One of my favorite parts was helping create interactive workshops for students. I led a session on study tips — sharing practical strategies to help students study more effectively and prepare for their exams. It was such a rewarding feeling to see them listening, asking questions, and feeling motivated.

Another highlight was my Georgian Cultural Day. I had the chance to introduce students and teachers to the Georgian language, share unique facts about my country’s history, culture, and traditions, and even teach a few traditional dances. It was heartwarming to see everyone so engaged — and the dancing part brought so much laughter and joy. Seeing people from different backgrounds enjoying and appreciating my culture was truly special.

This month has been more than just sightseeing; it’s been about growth, exchange, and connection. Every moment — whether volunteering, wandering through ancient streets, or simply sitting on the shore — has reminded me how enriching it is to step outside of your comfort zone and give a piece of yourself to others.

I arrived as a volunteer, but I’m leaving as someone changed by every sunset, smile, and story.