Hello again

 Hello again, Ander family,

This is my second time coming here. It hasn’t been that long since I left, but my longing for this place outweighed everything, and once again I found myself in this beautiful place, surrounded by warm-hearted people. The experience I had last time gave me so much in such a short period. I had taken important steps for myself on the path of learning. This time, I hope to grow even more through this valuable experience.

Walking through the familiar streets again—yet as a slightly different person and alongside new volunteer friends—reminded me once more of how quickly time passes. Strolling through the colorful night lights of Ankara, walking from Kızılay to Tunalı towards Kuğulu Park, standing once again in the unique serenity of Anıtkabir… all of these were truly special moments for me. Meeting again with the friends I had made here was an entirely different joy, an indescribable feeling.

Although climbing up to Ankara Castle was a bit challenging for me, sharing the experience with my new volunteer friends made it much easier. This time, I was able to look at everything from a new perspective.

One of the places I discovered for the first time this month was Saraçoğlu Neighborhood. It has such a calming atmosphere. Reading a book while sipping my coffee amidst the greenery quickly became one of my favorite activities. Holding our English conversation clubs at the youth center in this beautiful neighborhood made it even more meaningful to me.

Towards the end of the month, we also traveled to Istanbul and Cappadocia with my volunteer friends. We had fun, we learned, we relaxed, and we came back with wonderful memories.

Istanbul was a city I was visiting for the second time. Although the crowds were a little overwhelming, the deep blue beauty of the Bosphorus, its historical buildings, and its views captivated me once again. Especially the Galata Tower… every time I see it, it stirs something different inside me. Staying at a place where I could see it often was a big advantage this time. Its glowing silhouette under the night lights was truly mesmerizing.

Visiting Büyükada for the first time gave me a completely different energy. The liveliness of the locals and tourists, the island’s colorful atmosphere—it was so refreshing. The two-hour ferry ride, the new Turkish dishes and desserts we tried, the historical buildings of the island… all became memories I don’t want to forget. If I ever had the chance to live in Istanbul, I would probably choose this place. The spirit and energy of the island feel like such a perfect match for me.

Something both funny and a little disappointing also happened to me in Istanbul. I happened to run into an actor from a TV series I like at the ferry terminal. I recognized him and got excited, but since he didn’t want attention in the crowd, he refused our request for a photo. At the moment I felt a little sad, but now when I think about it, it’s just another fun and unique memory.

Cappadocia, on the other hand, was like stepping into another world. Experiencing that mystical and romantic atmosphere I had only seen in TV series, movies, and on social media was unforgettable. But a small note: don’t be fooled by the beauty—you might get caught unprepared for the cold mornings (like me ). The sight of colorful balloons floating across the sky makes you feel as if you’re living inside a fairy tale. You can truly feel like a princess there. But Cappadocia is not just about balloons; its history and natural formations are also worth exploring. I especially recommend visiting the Fairy Chimneys and enjoying a cup of tea while taking in the view before you leave.

This month, we also said goodbye to a volunteer friend whose energy had given us so much. It was a little hard emotionally to see him off. But I think having someone whose farewell feels so heavy is actually a blessing—it means you’ve built a meaningful connection. Knowing that I’ll meet him again is comforting.

Being able to experience all of this for the second time in the same year was truly a privilege for me. The month passed by so quickly and so full that I didn’t want it to end. The energy of Turkey, especially Ankara, holds a very special place in my heart. I hope that the coming month will be even more joyful, enriching, and unforgettable—for me and for my friends.

As our two-month adventure comes to an end

 

As our two-month adventure comes to an end, I can’t believe how quickly time has passed. This last month has been full of unforgettable moments, from exploring Cappadocia, Antalya, Izmir and Istanbul, to the beautiful experience in Van for “ESC On Arrival Training”. Each place we visited left a mark on my heart, but more than that, it was the people who made everything so special.

We continued our usual activities and also tried new ones, always learning, laughing, and creating memories together. Every day brought something meaningful, whether big or small.

Now that it’s time to say goodbye, I already miss my fellow volunteers. This project wasn’t just about volunteering, it was about building friendships, sharing cultures, and growing together. I know that even though the project ends, the connections we made will stay with me forever. 

Thank you to everyone who made this journey so beautiful. You will always have a special place in my heart, and I’ll carry these memories with me wherever I go.

August in Ankara

My last month in Turkey as an ESC volunteer was intense and full of experiences, despite the initial difficulties. After attending the meeting in Van with the National Agency, the other volunteers and I returned to Ankara with the aim of addressing and solving some issues we had noticed. The first weeks were not easy at all: there were several misunderstandings and miscommunications that made me feel very bad and not fully understood by the organization. It was a rather difficult and stressful period, during which I felt deeply frustrated. Fortunately, with time and dialogue, these problems were clarified and resolved, which allowed me to regain peace of mind and to continue my volunteering experience in a more positive and relaxed way.

Once that phase was over, the month was filled with meaningful and stimulating activities. I organized several workshops and games with the children at the youth center: some psychological activities were particularly touching, as the children opened up a lot, sharing personal stories and showing a sensitivity that moved me. It was truly a privilege to be allowed into their world, even just for a short time.

One of the most unusual and special experiences was harvesting tomatoes in a state-owned field, where the produce was distributed to people in need. It was a beautiful but also tiring activity: under the burning sun, picking and carrying heavy bags of tomatoes was not easy at all. Yet, this effort was exactly what made it so meaningful: for a day, I could put myself in the shoes of people who do this work every day to make a living. I couldn’t help but think of the foreign workers in my country who carry out this extremely hard labor and are paid barely €4 an hour. This experience made me more aware and grateful: when we go to the supermarket, we find tomatoes already displayed and ready for us, but we rarely stop to think about the hard work behind them. Living that experience firsthand opened my eyes to the reality we often overlook and made me realize how privileged I am.

Another activity we often carried out was Ebru workshops, a fascinating traditional Turkish art that consists of creating designs on water with colors. It was a very interesting and creative pastime, though I must admit that the paints had quite a strong and unpleasant smell, which made the experience a bit less enjoyable from a practical point of view.

A truly unforgettable moment of this month was taking part in the International Youth Day, organized by the United Nations. During the event, we had the chance to listen to motivational speeches, meet young people from different cultures, and also encounter prominent figures such as the mayor of Ankara, the ambassador of Venezuela, the ambassador of Singapore, and several UN representatives. It was enriching to hear their perspectives and stories. As volunteers, we had our own stand, where we presented the Ander association, European values, the European Solidarity Corps, and Erasmus projects to the young people who visited us. Besides the presentations, we also joined games, met new people, made friends, and attended a spectacular performance of traditional Turkish dancers performing with swords. The day ended with a direct exchange with UN representatives, during which we were able to share our ideas on current issues such as healthcare and its connection with young people. It was moving to be able to express our views on such important topics.

Of course, there were also lighter and more fun moments: one evening, for example, we all went together to the amusement park. It was great to be outside the work context, just laughing and having fun, which also strengthened the bonds between us volunteers.

During my free days, I also had the chance to travel to Istanbul to attend a project on sustainability. The initiative was interesting and well organized, but above all it allowed me to meet new people who were truly kind and friendly, with whom I shared some wonderful moments. I also had the opportunity to revisit Istanbul: I had already been there the previous year, but returning was still exciting. The city struck me again with its unique beauty and charm, though I found it extremely chaotic. After a few days there, I almost felt the need to go back to the calm and quiet atmosphere of Ankara, which by then I had come to see as my temporary home.

Looking back, I realize that this month has been like a journey within a journey: from the initial difficulties, which challenged me, to the moments of growth, discovery, and personal reflection. It has been a period that taught me a lot, not only about volunteering and about Turkey, but also about myself.

My Volunteering Journey in Turkey – Rekindling the Spark

 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,

We walked through the lively streets

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.

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.

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.

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. 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 thecity'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.

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.

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.