Hi everyone, I’m Laura, and welcome to my third blog post! Today, I’ll be sharing updates on my experience as an ESC volunteer in Pi Youth Association, the new things I have done, and what life in Izmir has been like so far. Time is flying, and I can’t believe it’s already been over six months since I started this journey. I hope you enjoy following along!
Enjoying new workshops
Over the past few months, I have taken on some new activities that made me enjoy my work more as a volunteer here. I have to be honest, repeating the same workshops can sometimes become a bit boring. That’s why I was so excited to start leading a yoga activity with another volunteer. It was the first one we’ve organized entirely on our own and even though we’re not professionals, the participants like it. More than anything it’s a matter of connecting with new people, trying new activities, and keeping our bodies moving.
I was part of a project in a refugee centre with some local and international volunteers, as well as women and children from Syria and Kurdistan. We organised and attended some cultural events – one every week – and painted benches and walls with bright colours for the kids. We spent time together, shared moments and simply enjoyed being there. Most importantly, we had the chance to talk, exchange our cultures and connect over home-made food.A few days ago, I led a nice sewing workshop where we went through the steps of making a scrunchie and improved our hand-sewing skills. It was also a great opportunity to talk about the impact of fast fashion on both the environment and workers, exchange ideas and reflect on our habits.
At the same refugee centre where I took part in intercultural activities, I’m also having workshops with children aged 3 to 5. Going there is fun, it gives me a chance to play, clear my mind, and be fully present in the moment.
Beyond workshops, my social life
Lately I have been spending more time outdoors, and one of the activities I’ve enjoyed was hiking. I went on a Sunday hike with a group of volunteers, and even though it was very cold and we got a little lost at one point, it was a nice and energizing experience.
Since the start of Ramadan, we’ve also been to some municipality centres to help distribute dinner for iftar. It was very nice to see so many people gathering and sharing both their time and food.
Last month, we celebrated the birthdays of three of volunteers, which was a good opportunity to strengthen our friendships and create wonderful memories. Additionally, I went to Buca and Göztepe to watch a volleyball and a football match, and both were fun experiences!
Beyond workshops, my social life
Lately I have been spending more time outdoors, and one of the activities I’ve enjoyed was hiking. I went on a Sunday hike with a group of volunteers, and even though it was very cold and we got a little lost at one point, it was a nice and energizing experience.
Since the start of Ramadan, we’ve also been to some municipality centres to help distribute dinner for iftar. It was very nice to see so many people gathering and sharing both their time and food.
Last month, we celebrated the birthdays of three of volunteers, which was a good opportunity to strengthen our friendships and create wonderful memories. Additionally, I went to Buca and Göztepe to watch a volleyball and a football match, and both were fun experiences!
What’s next
I’m grateful for the experiences and connections I’ve made here; so far this journey had been full of growth and learning. I’m excited to see how the last two and a half months will unfold and how my volunteering experience will come to a close.