My Purpose Here
My name is Emilie. I am a 27 year-old French woman who decided to take a break from my job to discover other cultures. I got wind of Pi Youth Association from a friend, originally from Izmir. She sold me the city, the
country and the association so well that an idea started to grow in my mind.
I am a mechanical engineer. Though I possess technical skills, I wanted to improve my social skills and engage more deeply with communities. I had
volunteered previously in different areas and always enjoyed being part of something that mattered. When I learned that Pi Youth Association was dispensing workshops to various social centers, to people from different backgrounds and of a wide age range, it spoke to my soul. Several months later, I was walking in the crowded streets of Izmir.
Discovering Izmir
Straddling Europe and the Middle East, Izmir is rich in history, traditions and cultures. I was immediately intrigued by the Greek architecture, particularly the
unique balconies in neighborhoods like Alsancak and Buca, where I live. It shows a shared past beautifully contrasting with the hundreds of mosques that dot the
skyline. It results in a city of particular charm.
Izmir is also home to a lot of disparities. From modern skyscrapers to houses that barely stand, the difference between the hills and other neighborhoods can be striking, reflecting a diverse social landscape.
Workshops with Pi Youth Association
With Pi Youth Association, I got to run workshops, mainly Conversation Clubs, in universities, high schools
and social centers throughout the city. It is incredibly rewarding to walk into a room full of eager faces,
some shy at first but becoming
grateful by the end.
Each session requires a specific approach based on the age and background of the participants. I really like the preparation phase because I am putting myself in their shoes and it is an exciting challenge. I also use their feedback to improve the next workshops and match them with their expectations.
Starting a workshop can feel a bit daunting, especially when I am on my own. However, I remind myself that I am not a teacher; the participants are there because they want to be. My role is simply to provide them with a chance to practice their English or their French. That is why I like to start with a game to lighten the mood and warm up our brains.
Reflections on my experience
I came here as a short-term volunteer for just 2 months. After a week, I had fallen in love with Izmir; by the end of my first month, I was enchanted by Turkish culture and food. Now, close to the end of my stay, I realize how much
I have come to appreciate my life here, my routine, and the people I met. Two months is a short amount of time, yet, it is enough to explore the city, the surroundings, meet fellow volunteers, and experience teaching. I am now planning a road trip to discover more of Türkiye. I am excited to see what else this beautiful country has to offer.
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I got, I couldn’t have known beforehand that this city, its people and their country would grow on me like this. Now, each adventure has an end. But this one will remain cherished by my soul.
Will you be the next one to be conquered by Türkiye?