Since arriving in Türkiye for my volunteer work with Pi Youth Association, each month has been an opportunity for personal and professional development. These past weeks have been particularly enriching, marked by travels, inspiring encounters, and significant events. Here is a recount of these memorable moments.
Conference in Izmir and Visit to the Youth Center in Kusadasi
On November 15th and 16th, I participated in the 6th International Conference on Educational Research organized by Izmir Democracy University. During this event, I gave a presentation on the theme of volunteering and professional integration. I highlighted how transversal skills such as project management, intercultural communication, and adaptability acquired during my volunteering are major assets for employers. These skills not only enhance employability but also improve the ability to navigate a globalized professional world.
In addition to the conference, I had the chance to visit a youth center in Kusadasi, a remarkable space offering Turkish youth a place for socialization by the sea. This center perfectly illustrates the importance of local initiatives in fostering informal education and personal development for young people. This visit was inspiring and a reminder of the positive impact of community projects.
Trips to Diyarbakir, Mardin, and Gaziantep
One of the most enriching experiences in recent weeks was my trip to Diyarbakir to attend the Mid-term meeting with other volunteers involved in various associations (in ESC Program too). It was a unique opportunity to reconnect with friends I had met in Samsun in October and reflect on our volunteering journey together. These discussions highlighted the benefits of this experience, both personally, with a heightened open-mindness, and professionally, by strengthening essential skills such as adaptability and teamwork.
Before this meeting, I had the chance to explore Mardin and Gaziantep with fellow volunteers from Pi Youth Association. These cities in Eastern Turkey, which we had not yet explored, captivated us with their cultural and historical richness. The ancient quarters of Mardin, with their unique architecture, and the culinary delights of Gaziantep, renowned for its gastronomy, were highlights of our trip. These discoveries broadened my understanding of Türkiye’s cultural diversity and deepened my appreciation for the richness of this country.
Accelerating My Turkish Learning
Learning the Turkish language is a key aspect of my volunteering experience. By using a combination of tools like flashcards, writing exercises, and regular practice with locals and other volunteers, I have noticed significant progress. The mutual support from my colleagues, some of whom are already advanced in Turkish, is a constant source of motivation. This experience has reaffirmed the importance of language learning in both professional and personal contexts. It has also rekindled my desire to improve my Spanish and potentially learn other languages in the future.
An Immersive New Year Celebration
New Year’s was another unforgettable experience. Invited to a Turkish friend’s home, I had the chance to immerse myself in a family-oriented celebration similar to Christmas in France. Around a traditional meal, we shared stories, played board games, and created warm memories together. Such authentic exchanges strengthen intercultural bonds and offer a deeper understanding of local traditions, creating precious and lasting memories.
This volunteering experience is much more than just a mission abroad. It is a transformative journey that opens doors to new perspectives, both personally and professionally. Every interaction, cultural discovery, and skill acquired reinforces my belief that this commitment is a genuine opportunity for growth. I am excited to continue this adventure and share these learnings with others.
This blog is a window into the many facets of international volunteering. I hope it will inspire others to embark on a similar journey and see the world as an endless field of learning and sharing. Stay tuned for more updates—see you soon in my third blog post!
