My Volunteering Journey in Turkey – Rekindling the Spark
My name is Svetlana, and after just one month in Turkey, I can wholeheartedly
say – I’ve discovered my spark again! Living in an international environment has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It placed me in situations I could never have predicted, taught me how to adapt quickly, and – most importantly – helped me form deep, meaningful bonds with people from all over the world. Sharing a flat with volunteers from different nationalities opened a window into cultures I had only read about before. We didn’t just talk about traditions – we lived them together. From sharing meals to celebrating small customs, every moment enriched my stay and made this journey unforgettable. Since the very first week, we began to immerse ourselves in the life of Ankara – learning the rhythm of the city, interacting with locals, and, of course, adapting to the Turkish lifestyle… which includes drinking çay (tea) at any time of the day – no questions asked! Haha :) This past month has been full of laughter, joy, and the kind of happiness that only comes from connecting with others on a genuine level. One of the most rewarding aspects of our volunteering work was spending time with children – some of the purest souls I’ve ever met. They welcomed us with open hearts, eager to learn about our cultures, improve their English, and simply enjoy time together. Their curiosity and love created a powerful energy that made each day a pleasure to wake up to.
We were responsible for organizing and delivering various workshops in areas like art, sports, and education. Our aim was to not only teach practical skills but also help the kids build their soft skills – communication, teamwork, creativity, and confidence. And honestly, they taught us just as much in return. I felt proud seeing them engaged and happy, knowing that our presence was making a real difference. Aside from working with the kids, we – as an international team – made the most of every opportunity to explore the beauty of Turkey. We conducted several trips, but the most memorable was our visit to Amasra, where we discovered a charming old town and enjoyed the peaceful beachside. Another unforgettable moment was our vacation in Antalya – a time of sun, sea, and even more international friendships being born. Every trip brought us closer as a group and deepened our appreciation for Turkey’s culture and natural beauty.
During the weekdays, I spent most of my time at Mamak Youth Center, wheremy activities spanned across several areas. No two days were ever the same – every one was special and unique in its own way. Some highlights include leading yoga and stretching workshops (which were surprisingly popular!), hosting a day dedicated to pollution awareness and recycling, baking cakes and cooking together with the youth, and of course, our beloved “Friday Discover Ankara” trips where we explored new parts of the city and its surroundings.
This past month has been an incredible chapter of my life. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful – where I could contribute, learn, grow, and truly feel alive. It reminded me of who I am, what I value, and how much impact simple human connection can have.
To anyone wondering whether to take part in an international volunteering project – do it. You won’t just be helping others… you’ll discover new parts of yourself along the way.
With love and gratitude,