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!
