June 2025: The Final Chapters of My Volunteering Journey in Ankara

 

June 2025 was an incredibly emotional, meaningful, and unforgettable month for me. It marked not only the conclusion of my volunteering journey in Turkey, but also a time of deep reflection — on everything I experienced, everything I learned, and above all, everything I felt. And when I think about it all, one word rises above the rest: gratitude.

Traveling Through Turkey – Istanbul and Trabzon

The first week of June was our official holiday, and I decided to make the most of it by exploring more of this diverse and beautiful country. My first stop was Istanbul – a city that pulses with life every hour of the day. Walking along the Bosphorus gave me a unique sense of freedom, of being right in the heart of history and modern life interwoven together. I was mesmerized by the grandeur of Hagia Sophia and the serenity of the Blue Mosque. The vibrant chaos of the Grand Bazaar offered a sensory explosion – bright colors, the scent of spices, the hum of voices in countless languages.

Of course, the food was unforgettable: fresh simit from street vendors, perfectly grilled kebabs, and sweet baklava that melted in my mouth. Istanbul felt like a living mosaic, and I was just one small piece discovering her stories.

After Istanbul, I headed to Trabzon – a city I had dreamed of visiting for years. The Black Sea region had long fascinated me, and I finally had the chance to see it with my own eyes. Trabzon had a very different rhythm than Istanbul – more peaceful, yet full of soul. I explored the local city center, wandered through bustling markets and cozy tea houses, and most importantly, spent hours simply sitting by the Black Sea.

That moment by the water – the salty air in my lungs, the wind playing with my hair, the sound of waves – was deeply moving. I wasn’t just crossing off a place from my travel list. I was living a dream. And I allowed myself to fully feel it: peace, awe, and a kind of fulfillment that only nature and long-held desires can offer.

Festival at the Altindag School – Beautiful Connections

Once I returned to Ankara, we took part in a festival at a local school. This day quickly became one of the most heartwarming moments of my volunteering journey. The atmosphere was filled with joy, creativity, and innocent curiosity. Together with the children, we created English-focused informal educational activities. We made bookmarks, folded colorful origami, practiced vocabulary, and laughed together. The children were open, eager to learn, and so full of life.

The highlight of the festival was the children’s performances. They sang traditional and modern songs with such passion and energy that it brought tears to my eyes. Some played traditional instruments, others classical ones. Their confidence, their bravery to perform, and the pure joy radiating from them were incredibly inspiring. I was deeply touched by how much beauty and talent resides in such small people with big dreams.

Watching their eyes shine and hearing their voices sing was like witnessing the future with my own eyes – hopeful, vibrant, and full of light. That day reminded me why volunteering matters, and how powerful it can be to simply be present, to encourage, and to believe in others.

 University Talk and Community Work

Another important moment of June was the opportunity to speak at Lokman Hekim University about our volunteer work. It was both humbling and exciting to share my story, the challenges I faced, and the lessons I learned. We talked about cultural exchange, service, growth, and how volunteering isn’t just about helping others – it's also about discovering who you really are. The students asked thoughtful questions and genuinely listened. That conversation gave me hope for the future and reminded me of the importance of sharing and listening.

Throughout the month, we continued with our regular conversation clubs – both at Damla and in the office every Saturday. These were special gatherings where people of different ages and backgrounds came together to talk, laugh, and learn from one another. The power of human connection through simple conversations became clearer and more meaningful with each session.

Another deeply touching experience was our weekly volunteer work with the ANDA organization, where we packed food for those in need. It wasn’t just about placing items into bags – it was about humanity, dignity, and compassion. Every time we prepared a food parcel, I felt grounded and grateful. Knowing that a small act like this could have a real impact on someone’s daily life moved me deeply. This taught me that helping others doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the quiet, consistent kindness that truly matters.

Mental Health Workshop and Slovak Culture evening

One of the most meaningful personal projects I led this month was a workshop on mental health and well-being, held at Keçiören Gençlik Merkezi. The topic is close to my heart, and I was honored to create a space where students felt safe to reflect, express, and ask questions. We talked about stress, emotions, self-care, and breaking stigma. It was incredible to see how open and engaged the students were. The honesty in the room created a powerful sense of connection – proof that no matter where we come from, we all face similar struggles, and we all benefit from compassion and awareness.

As the month – and my journey – came to a close, I had the privilege to host a Slovak Cultural Night. I prepared a presentation about my home country – its nature, history, language, traditions, and values. I created a fun quiz with small prizes and prepared traditional Slovak food: "granadír" (a potato and pasta dish) and zemiakové placky (potato pancakes). It was a lovely evening full of laughter, curiosity, and meaningful cultural exchange. People asked questions, shared stories of their own countries, and together we celebrated diversity through food and friendship. It was one of those nights that made the world feel a little smaller, and a lot warmer.

 A Grateful Goodbye

Now that this journey comes to an end, I can honestly say that volunteering in Turkey has changed me in ways I could never have imagined. I came here to give, to help, to share – but in truth, I received so much more than I gave. I received love, support, lessons, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of the world and myself.

Volunteering taught me patience, humility, and empathy. It taught me to listen, to be flexible, and to celebrate small victories. It showed me that connection matters – with people, with communities, and with purpose. I learned that kindness transcends language, and that simply showing up can sometimes mean the most.

I leave Turkey with a full heart. Grateful for every child I met, every meal we packed, every student who spoke bravely in English, every colleague who became a friend, and every moment that made me pause and say, this matters.

This is not the end. It’s a beginning – of a new journey, rooted in everything I’ve lived and learned here. Turkey, you will always have a place in my heart. Thank you for everything.

 

HOW WAS MY VOLUNTEERING IN MAY?

 

Hello!

I am Veronika and I come from Slovakia from small city Pezinok, near the capital city Bratislava. Now I am volunteer for two months in amazing Ankara in Turkey. I can describe my first month in Ankara in the following words: A Dream Come True and a New Beginning.

May 2025 will forever remain in my memory as the beginning of one of the most beautiful and transformative chapters of my life. After years of dreaming, wishing, and imagining myself walking through the streets of Turkey, I finally made it here – not just as a tourist, but as a volunteer ready to contribute, learn, and grow.

Arriving in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, I was filled with a mix of excitement, nervousness, and pure joy. From the very beginning, I was welcomed with warm smiles and open hearts. Our first days were spent in the organization’s office, engaging in team-building and orientation activities. These sessions helped break the ice, and I was fortunate to meet fellow volunteers from various parts of the world. It was amazing how quickly bonds started to form – everyone had a unique story, a common goal, and an eagerness to make a difference.

Exploring Ankara soon became a regular part of our daily routine. One of our first visits was to the historic neighborhood of Ulus, a charming district with cobbled streets, traditional houses, and small shops that seem untouched by time. The Atatürk Statue, standing tall and proud, reminded me of Turkey’s rich and complex history, while the impressive Ankara Castle offered panoramic views of the entire city. It was up there, surrounded by ancient stones and the breeze of early summer, that I realized how far I had come – not just geographically, but emotionally too. I was living my dream.

One detail that stayed with me from the very start was the presence of so many street cats and dogs. Far from being stray or neglected, these animals are beloved by the local people. You can see food and water bowls left out for them, and many have even been adopted informally by neighborhoods. As an animal lover, this touched my heart deeply.

In the middle of the month, we had the opportunity to travel to Bursa, a city full of natural beauty, culture, and history. The road trip itself was filled with laughter, music, and shared stories. Once in Bursa, I was captivated by its green landscapes and mountainous surroundings. We visited several historic mosques, wandered through the vibrant local bazaars, and climbed up to the iconic Clock Tower, which offered breathtaking views of the city below. The visit to the Panorama 1326 Fetih Museum was particularly powerful – the 360° visual storytelling brought the city’s past to life in an unforgettable way. Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the famous Iskender kebab. The flavors were rich and savory, a true culinary highlight of the trip.

Returning to Ankara, our focus shifted back to volunteering. One of the most meaningful aspects of my stay has been participating in non-formal English education programs. We visited both private and religious schools, where we worked with children and young students to improve their English skills in a fun and engaging way. The school environments in Turkey are different from what I was used to in Slovakia – there’s a certain warmth and energy that I found both refreshing and inspiring. The teachers we met were deeply committed and incredibly welcoming. It was a privilege to be part of their classrooms and to witness their dedication firsthand.

In addition to school visits, we also organize conversation clubs every Friday and Saturday. These informal gatherings are one of my favorite parts of the week. We create a space where people of different ages and backgrounds can come together to practice English in a relaxed and playful way. Through games, role-plays, group discussions, and storytelling, we not only improve language skills but also build connections and share cultures. Every session is different, and I love how these meetings turn strangers into friends.

Another important part of our routine has been our Turkish language classes, which are not only educational but also incredibly fun. These lessons give us the chance to better understand the culture and communicate with locals more confidently. We’re guided by an amazing and kind teacher, who makes every session enjoyable and supportive. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our progress each week, and I’m truly grateful for this opportunity to deepen my connection to the place I now call home.

A deeply emotional experience this month was our participation in the Ankara Disabled Festival. It was a celebration of inclusion, diversity, and community. Watching the performances, meeting participants, and simply being part of such a powerful initiative was truly moving. It reminded me how important it is to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, regardless of their abilities.

In our free time, we also explored more of Ankara’s historical and cultural landmarks. Visiting Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was a solemn and awe-inspiring experience. The architecture is monumental, and the energy of the place is filled with respect and reverence. We also spent time at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which houses incredible artifacts from ancient times and gave me a deeper appreciation for the complex history of this land. One night, we attended a cultural evening with live traditional music, which turned into a beautiful celebration of life, dance, and human connection. Music really is a universal language.

Later in the month, we traveled to Gaziantep, a city known for its culinary traditions and historical richness. The Şahinbey Mosque took my breath away with its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The panorama museum offered vivid visual narratives that helped us understand the region’s past more clearly. One of the most unforgettable moments was visiting Rumkale, a fortress perched above the rivers, where history and nature blend into one majestic view. In one of the local schools, we tried traditional Ebru painting with the children – a delicate and colorful art form that was as fun as it was mesmerizing. And, of course, we tasted delicious local specialties like lahmacun and dürüm, which instantly became some of my favorite dishes.

Another activity that’s very close to my heart is our Friday food-packing initiative. Each week, we prepare and distribute food to people in need, and every time I leave with a full heart. It’s a small action, but it reminds me of how important solidarity is. Being able to give back to the community in this way is one of the most fulfilling parts of this experience.

Comparing Turkey and Slovakia, I see many differences – in culture, rhythm of life, communication styles – but also many similarities in values such as family, hospitality, and respect. While Slovakia feels more quiet and familiar, Turkey is vibrant, layered, and full of surprising contrasts. What strikes me the most is the generosity and openness of the people here. Even in a big city like Ankara, I feel seen, welcomed, and appreciated.

This first month has been intense, enriching, and unforgettable. I’ve made new friends, pushed my own boundaries, and felt inspired every single day. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how much beauty there is in stepping outside of your comfort zone. A dream I carried for so long has become reality – and it’s more meaningful than I ever imagined. I can't wait to see what the next chapters in this Turkish journey will bring.