January – A month that flew by
January went by in a flash—I barely saw the days pass! Between workshops, language learning, and new experiences, every day brought something different. One of the things I enjoy most about my volunteer work is adapting to different audiences and continuously improving my skills. Working with diverse groups keeps things exciting and challenges me to communicate more effectively, both in English and Turkish. Every session is an opportunity to learn—not just for the participants, but for me as well.
Istanbul – A february getaway Since January, I had the chance to visit Istanbul with several other volunteers for a few days. It was an incredible experience, and I fell in love with the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
One of the highlights was visiting the Basilica Cistern, a vast underground water storage system from the Byzantine era, known for its mysterious ambiance and impressive Medusa-headed columns. We also explored some of Istanbul’s most iconic religious sites, such as the Yeni Mosque, the Blue Mosque, and the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, located in the heart of the city. The ferry rides across the Bosphorus reminded me of my daily commutes on the ferry in Izmir, where I currently volunteer. There’s something magical about seeing a city from the water—it offers a whole new perspective.
Another highlight was visiting the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of contemporary works. I was particularly excited to see The Soul Trembles by Chiharu Shiota. I had heard about this exhibition when it was displayed at the Petit Palais in Paris in late 2024, so I was thrilled to discover that it had made its way to Istanbul.
Istanbul truly captured my heart, and I hope to return before the end of my volunteer program. It’s such a vast and dynamic city, with endless places to explore. Whether for a weekend or several weeks, I don’t think you could ever run out of things to do. I love cities like this, where you can always stumble upon something new.
February & March: Exciting times ahead
As February transitions into March, my workshops continue to evolve. I feel myself growing both professionally and personally, constantly adapting and learning from each session.
I’m especially looking forward to the end of March when two friends will be visiting me. We’re planning to meet in Antalya, where we’ll experience the local festivities marking the end of Ramadan. It’s a unique opportunity to witness this important cultural moment in Turkey, and I can’t wait to share it with them.
Meanwhile, Izmir is getting warmer, and it already feels like summer! It’s amazing to enjoy the beautiful weather with the other volunteers, spending time outside and making the most of the sunshine. The coming weeks promise more learning, exploration, and unforgettable memories.
See you soon for my next blog post !