I am a volunteer from Poland from the Silesia region. My name is Ruben
When I first landed in Izmir, I didn’t have any expectations, I was just open to the unknown. That helped me to adapt in a new environment, country, different culture and start my volunteering journey. But little did I know, this experience would teach me more than I could ever imagine, not just about the world, but more about myself.
First Impressions of Izmir
From the beginning of my journey it hit me with a surprise. At the airport it turned out my mentor speaks a bit of Polish and is very interested in my culture which made me proud. After a small chat we took an Izban straight to “Buca Flat” (a lovely flat with other “buca boys” ) Which is gonna be my new home for the next 8 months.
Starting a volunteering project was something I jumped into spontaneously also with a lot of uncertainty, because Türkiye is one of the most exotic countries I visited. But after all I knew Izmir had a reputation for being one of Türkiye’s most laid-back cities, which fit me perfectly.
İzmir doesn’t just exist; it breathes. The sea breeze carries the scent of strong perfume (especially boys, I don’t like it), the streets are alive but never overwhelming, and people actually take the time to enjoy life. Coming from a fast-paced environment, I wasn’t used to this rhythm. But very quickly, I learned that in İzmir, you don’t just “do” things, you experience them.
I am participating in a youth organization that focuses on cultural exchange and community projects. My role was to help organize events and support the local community, teach them English, and help them get to know other cultures. The real impact came from the small, everyday moments. Contacting my students, seeing their progress in speaking English. Connection doesn’t always come from big speeches or planned activities. Sometimes, it’s just in the shared experience of trying, failing, and laughing through it. That makes me feel proud and gives me the sense that what I am doing matters.
Personal Experience
Of course, not everything was easy. Adjusting to a new culture, figuring out the language, and learning to navigate a different work style with other volunteers all took effort. But that’s the thing about stepping into a new experience. Discomfort is just part of the process. And on the other side of that discomfort is growth. However, being an outsider is temporary. İzmir welcomes you. The moment you sit down at a café, someone will strike up a conversation, and before you know it, you’re part of the flow.
If you ever get a chance to volunteer abroad, take it. Not just for work, but for the experience of exploring yourself in a new way of life. İzmir taught me that you don’t need to lead all the time and still make a difference as a part of the bigger picture. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.
See you later “on beaches”
