Uliana's Second Month

 It is hard to believe, but my ESC volunteering journey in Ankara is slowly coming to an end. August was a great month filled with new experiences, meaningful connections, and moments that I will always carry with me. From spending time with kids at the youth centers and learning alongside them, to exploring the hidden corners and traveling to different parts of Türkiye. Every day seemed to bring something valuable.

We started the month with a training meeting organized by the National Agency. There, we met volunteers from different countries who are also doing their projects in Türkiye. It was inspiring to exchange experiences, share our stories, have small talks during coffee breaks, and explore together the wonderful city of Van. During our stay, we visited the largest lake in Türkiye - Lake Van - and took a trip to Akdamar Island, where we saw the beautiful Armenian Church of the Holy Cross.

After that, we continued our journey back in Ankara. Like the previous month, we spent our days working with kids at Mamak and Altındağ Gençlik Merkezi, running games and creative workshops, and sharing small everyday moments with them. We also participated in YOUniverse: International Youth Day Meeting, where we presented Erasmus opportunities for young people, shared our volunteering experiences, and talked about youth exchanges for anyone interested.

This month I also had the chance to organize a Ukrainian Cultural Day. It was a wonderful opportunity to share a piece of my own culture with others. I brought some treats from Ukraine, talked about Ukrainian traditions and daily life, shared music and stories from home. It felt great to see how interested everyone was, asking questions and trying to understand more about my country. It was also nice to take part in the cultural days of other volunteers. Each event felt like a little journey to another country, exploring traditional food, listening to music, learning new dances, and hearing stories about local customs. These moments reminded me how uniqueand valuable it is to live in such a multicultural environment, where every day brings something new to discover and appreciate. I feel truly grateful for this opportunity.

This month we also had the chance to travel and see more of Türkiye. Our first stop was Cappadocia, and honestly, it felt unreal. The valleys and rock formations looked like something from another planet, and watching the hot-air balloons at sunrise was one of those moments you don’t forget.

Our next destination was Izmir. It was interesting to walk through the bazaar and along the seaside, and it gave me a glimpse of everyday life in a large Turkish city. Even if it wasn’t my favorite stop, it added to the whole experience of discovering different sides of Türkiye. Not far from Izmir, we also visited Alaçatı, a small town that instantly felt cozy. Its narrow streets, stone houses, and colorful little cafes were so charming that I could have spent hours just wandering around.

And of course, we couldn’t miss Istanbul. The city is huge and intense, but also fascinating. One moment you’re standing inside a centuries-old mosque, and the next you’re in a busy modern street with shops, music, and crowds. It’s overwhelming in the best possible way, and every corner has something to surprise you.

During this project, I made so many friends, and I feel incredibly lucky to have spent two months with such a wonderful team. We became a true family, supporting each other through challenges, sharing laughs during free time, celebrating small victories, and creating memories that I know will last a lifetime. This project has taught me the value of friendship, teamwork, and openness to new experiences. I leave Ankara with a full heart, grateful for everything I’ve learned, excited for the future, and confident that the people and experiences I encountered here will continue to inspire me wherever I go.

Görüşürüz, Türkiye!

Two Months, A Lifetime of Memories

This is my second and final month of volunteering, and I still can’t believe how quickly time has flown by. Looking back, I feel grateful, proud, and deeply happy that I had the chance to be part of this journey. It was not just about discovering new places, but also about discovering myself.

Ankara was the city where everything began for me. A place full of history, culture, and life. I had the chance to visit Anıtkabir, the resting place of Atatürk, and it left me in awe of Turkey’s history. I wandered around Hamamönü, with its old wooden houses, colorful streets, and cozy cafés, where time seemed to slow down. I stood in front of the grand Kocatepe Mosque, one of the largest in the city, admiring its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. And from the top of Atakule Tower, I looked out over Ankara, realizing just how big, vibrant, and full of stories this city really is.

One of the highlights of my time in Ankara was attending Youth Day. It was such an inspiring event, full of energy and hope. We met so many volunteers and young people from different backgrounds. It was a day of learning, exchanging ideas, and sharing joy. Together with my friends, we introduced ANDER, talked about our work, and also listened and learned a lot from others. There was laughter, music, and unforgettable conversations the kind of experience that fills your heart with motivation and positivity.

And then, there was Cappadocia. Simply magical. Waking up before sunrise, standing with my friends, and watching dozens of hot air balloons rise into the sky as the sun painted everything golden  it felt like living inside a dream. We hiked through hidden valleys, explored unique rock formations, and let ourselves be carried away by the charm of this place. Cappadocia is not just a destination, it’s a feeling, and it will forever remain my favorite place in Turkey.

Finally, Istanbul the city of two continents, where history and modern life walk hand in hand. Of course, we didn’t have enough time to see everything, but what we managed to experience was unforgettable. From the lively streets and beautiful mosques to the Bosphorus views, Istanbul was a perfect ending to this journey. Every corner had something unique, and it left me wanting to come back one day.

I’m so thankful to have been part of this experience: discovering the beauty of Turkey, learning new things, and most importantly, creating friendships that will stay with me for a lifetime.

Thank you, Ankara. Thank you, Cappadocia. Thank you, Istanbul. And most of all thank you, ANDER. These two months may be over, but the memories, the lessons, and the people

I met will always stay in my heart.

David's August Blog

 As an international volunteer in Ankara, the month of August flew by faster than I expected. Compared to July, it felt like time passed in the blink of an eye. August was filled with energy, meaningful activities, and countless learning opportunities. My main role continued to be working with children at a youth center, where each day brought something new and exciting.

Throughout the month, we engaged in a variety of activities: teaching English, participating in drama classes, playing mind games, and having fun together. One of the highlights was creating workshops on important topics such as recycling, pollution, and peer pressure: exploring whether it is good or bad and how to cope with it. These workshops helped the children express themselves and learn more about the world around them. We also spent time painting and drawing, expressing ourselves through art by illustrating our families, friends, and things that represent who we are.

Every week, we had Turkish language lessons, and I’m truly grateful for that opportunity. Thanks to these classes, I now feel more connected to the culture and can understand more of the language. August also brought with it a series of cultural days, where we learned about the traditions, food, music, and dances of countries such as Georgia, Azerbaijan, Romania, Spain, Italy, and Ukraine. We played Kahoot games, tasted traditional dishes, and even learned a few traditional dances.

Another significant experience was participating in events for International Youth Day. It was inspiring to meet young people from countries like Mongolia, Nigeria, Kenya, and Venezuela.

They shared insights about youth issues and solutions through their information stands. This event deepened my understanding of youth representation and global cooperation. One memorable day, we went to the fields to harvest tomatoes, which we later donated to people with fewer opportunities. This small act of giving reminded me of the power of community and the importance of solidarity.

Beyond the structured activities, I truly enjoyed my daily life in Ankara. I explored many parts of the city, visiting the Prison Museum, Ankara Castle, Atatürk's Mausoleum, and historical neighborhoods. I even started going regularly to a local sports center with a friend.

These experiences enriched my understanding of the city and made me feel more at home. Now that my two-month journey is coming to an end, I feel a mix of emotions. It’s difficult to say goodbye to the children, my friends, the city, and everything I’ve been a part of. However,

I leave with a heart full of memories, knowledge, and hope for the future. This amazing experience has not only shaped my summer, it has shaped my future. I am deeply grateful for every moment I spent here. I’m leaving a part of myself and my heart here, and carrying with
me a piece of the hearts of those I’ve met.

My Voluntaring Journey

 Hi, I am Uliana, a short-term volunteer with the ESC program in Türkiye. I’ve spent the past few weeks living in Ankara, a city that balances tradition and modern life, noise and quiet, mountains and concrete, all at once, and I am excited to share some of my experiences so far. Honestly, it is hard to believe that so much has already happened in just one month.

One of the best parts of this experience are people I’ve met this month. I am grateful to be surrounded by such friendly and caring individuals from various backgrounds. Even with our different cultures and perspectives, it is surprising how quickly we’ve built close connections. It feels like we have been friends for years. From shared meals and late-night conversations to inside jokes and helping each other navigate daily life, these connections became the heart of my time here. My main volunteering took place at two youth centers – Altındağ Gençlik Merkezi and Mamak Gençlik Merkezi. Every day brought something different. Some days I was helping organize games and creative workshops for kids, other times we were cooking meals together or going on little excursions, like our visit to the biosphere museum. The kids’ energy was contagious. Even when we did not fully understand each other’s languages, we always found ways to laugh, to connect, and to learn from one another. Outside of volunteering, I spent a lot of time exploring Ankara. I walked through neighborhoods, visited local bazaars, climbed up to the castle for an incredible sunset view, wandered through Hamamönü’s old streets, explored the amazing Millet Kütüphanesi (Nation’s Library), and had a powerful visit to Anıtkabir. The city’s mix of old and new kept me curious every day. I also discovered my favorite park and library corner – quiet spaces that felt like little escapes. I was lucky enough to take two trips as well. The first was to Amasra, a quiet town on the Black Sea where time seemed to slow down. We watched the sun rise and sun set over the water and explored tiny, cobbled streets by the sea. The second trip was to Antalya, a vibrant Mediterranean city full of life, beaches, music, and warm air. Both places gave me space to breathe, reflect, and recharge. Of course, it wasn’t always easy. There were language barriers, and sometimes cultural differences felt overwhelming. But slowly, through daily conversations, shared tea, kind gestures, and patience, those challenges turned into moments of learning. I now see them as one of the most valuable parts of this journey.

And what I know for sure: this is just the beginning.

See you later!

Another beautiful chapter has come to an end

I’ve now completed my third month of volunteering—and with every passing day, I continue to discover more about myself, about others, and about the kind of world we can create together. Before reflecting on the entire journey, I’d like to dive into what made this particular month so special.

As in previous months, I continued taking part in the regular English and Turkish speaking clubs, which have become a comfortable and stimulating space for cultural exchange, personal growth, and open dialogue. These sessions are more than just language practice—they're a platform where ideas are shared, friendships are built, and confidence is nurtured.

One of the highlights of the month was attending a training course dissemination led by our fellow volunteer, Talha. He walked us through the experience of writing and implementing a project—turning ideas into real-world impact. It was an eye-opening session that made me realize how accessible meaningful change can be when you’re equipped with the right mindset and tools. For someone passionate about youth development and education, this workshop planted seeds of future ambition in me.

Throughout the month, we also organized a variety of creative and educational activities with children in two different youth centers. Every week was a new adventure—drawing, storytelling, group games, and most memorably, a recycling project. Using bottle caps from mineral water bottles, we created colorful keychains and coasters. This activity was not only environmentally conscious, but it also became a powerful medium for expression. Watching the children unleash their creativity, helping them shape their ideas, laughing together, and recording those moments on video made me feel fully alive and present. Their joy was contagious; their imagination, limitless.

Additionally, I had the chance to attend morning yoga classes in the fresh, crisp air of Ankara. Those calm early hours brought a beautiful balance into my routine. Starting the day with mindfulness helped me stay centered, energized, and ready to give my best throughout the day. It’s fascinating how even a few moments of intentional breathing and movement can transform your inner state, making you more compassionate and attentive in your interactions with others.

But beyond the activities, the true essence of volunteering lies in the invisible bonds we form—with people, places, and values. Volunteering has taught me to slow down and really listen. It has shown me the importance of being present, of showing up even when it’s not easy, and of offering what you can with an open heart. Every child’s laughter, every thank-you, every shared moment has quietly shaped my character.

More than just giving time or effort, volunteering is about being part of something larger than yourself. It's about creating bridges—between generations, between cultures, between dreams and reality. You begin by thinking you’re helping others, but soon realize how much you're growing in the process. You learn patience, leadership, empathy, and above all, humility. You stop measuring impact in numbers and start seeing it in smiles, in progress, in hope.

This journey has made it clear to me that volunteering is not just a role—it's a way of life. It invites you to live with intention, to contribute meaningfully, and to believe in the quiet power of consistent, compassionate action. And as I look forward to the next chapters, I carry with me not only memories but also a deep sense of purpose—because when you give a piece of yourself to others, you gain a fuller version of who you are meant to become.

 

My July in Turkey: A Month Full of Connection, Learning, and Discovery

 July has been one of the most enriching and memorable months of my life. From volunteering with children to discovering breathtaking corners of Turkey, this experience has left a deep mark on me — not just as a volunteer, but as a person.

Volunteering in Ankara: Mamak and Altındağ Youth Centers

My daily routine in Ankara was anything but ordinary. In Mamak GENÇLİK MERKEZİ, I worked closely with children, organizing energizers, group dynamics, mind games, and even a fun tote bag painting activity. Watching the kids smile, create, and express themselves was a powerful reminder of how small actions can bring joy.

Meanwhile, at Altındağ GENÇLİK MERKEZİ, I had the chance to explore a wider variety of workshops. I taught English and basketball, supported activities like robotic coding, art, and cinema, and led more mind games. Each day was full of laughter, learning, and shared curiosity — a beautiful cultural exchange through play, creativity, and teamwork.

A Life-Changing Trip to Hakkari

One of the most impactful experiences this month was traveling to Hakkari, in the far southeast of the country. There, I joined a different kind of volunteering project that allowed me to connect with an entirely new reality.

We visited the homes of families of martyrs, centers for people with disabilities, a Quran school, and took part in cultural visits that helped us understand the local way of life. We also went hiking through stunning landscapes, helped clean a lake, and shared meaningful moments with local people. I felt deeply welcomed and touched by the warmth, generosity, and strength of the community. It was an unforgettable experience that opened my heart and mind in so many ways.

Exploring Antalya

During my free days, I had the chance to travel to Antalya, a beautiful city on the southern coast. It was the perfect getaway — full of sunshine, sea, and surprises. I loved connecting with locals, exploring the historic streets, and of course, swimming in the Mediterranean. The trip reminded me of the beauty of balance: working hard and making space to enjoy life fully.

Training and Connection in Van

To wrap up the month, we attended a training in Van, where we learned more about volunteering, community impact, and youth work. It was also an amazing opportunity to meet other international volunteers from all over the world. Together, we explored Van’s vibrant city life, its natural surroundings, and its delicious cuisine. The energy was inspiring, and I came back full of ideas, connections, and motivation.

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Final Thoughts

July was a month of discovery, human connection, and cultural exchange. I’m grateful for every child I played with, every conversation I shared, every place I visited, and every person who made me feel at home.

Turkey continues to surprise and inspire me — and I can’t wait to see what the next months bring.

 

My July Blog – ESC Experience in Ankara

 Hello! I’m Magda, and this is my July blog. I’d love to share the unforgettable moments I experienced while being in Ankara and taking part in this wonderful ESC project.

A Life-Changing First Experience

To be honest, this was my very first experience like this, and I never expected it to be so unforgettable. From the very beginning, everything felt new, exciting, and surprisingly meaningful.

Our Daily Activities

Let me start with the daily activities. Every single one of them was not only interesting, but also so much fun! One of the most special parts for me was working with the children. The joy and energy they brought made each day brighter and more fulfilling.

We also organized various workshops and engaging activities that allowed us to connect, share, and learn in creative ways. One highlight was the Speaking Club, where we gathered each week with young people to discuss self-development topics and share perspectives. It was an incredible way to grow, learn, and feel the power of connection through meaningful conversation.

Cultural Exchange & Friendship

This project gave me the chance to strengthen my skills, share knowledge, and learn from others – all in a fun and inspiring environment. I met people from different countries, cultures, and languages, but it was never difficult to find a common language. That’s the beauty of being open and respectful.

In my opinion, when you're in a new country, surrounded by strangers, the most important thing is to find a way to connect with people you live and work with—and to do it respectfully. And I really felt that, especially through the sweet and curious eyes of the children.

Exploring the Beauty of Ankara

Ankara is a beautiful city, full of depth and charm. In the very first week, I started visiting places, and one of the first was the stunning Kocatepe Mosque. We also visited the Biosphere Museum and enjoyed peaceful picnics in green parks where live music added to the magical atmosphere.

We walked through the lively streets of Kızılay, which offered a true taste of the city's daily life. And something that made each day even more joyful? Seeing cats everywhere! Every corner had a cat lounging or walking by — Ankara truly felt like Catland, and as a cat lover, it brought a smile to my face daily.

Unforgettable Trips: Amasra & Antalya

We also went on beautiful trips outside the city. Amasra completely stole my heart — every street was charming, and the people made it even more special. It’s a place I’ll never forget, and it quickly became one of my favorites.

Another unforgettable experience was visiting Antalya. The views were breathtaking — from the old town to the beaches, every place was full of beauty and peace. I’m so glad I got to explore it.

Final Thoughts

ESC was not just a volunteer program for me; it was a life-changing journey. It opened doors to growth, connection, and unforgettable memories. I’m truly grateful for this experience and everyone who was a part of it.