Hello everyone! I am Laura from Italy, and I am currently volunteering with the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) in Türkiye. I decided to volunteer for a year before figuring out what to do with my future and career. I moved to Izmir about two months ago, just like many other international volunteers, and I am excited to immerse myself in the local culture and connect with the people here!
My Workshops
The most significant part of my volunteering experience is leading workshops. I run English conversation clubs for various groups, including women, children, and high school students, as well as Italian conversation clubs and other activities. Each session is unique, filled with discussions, shared stories, and moments of learning. I enjoy spending time with the participants; it’s an opportunity to exchange cultures and ideas. My favourite place to work is Sakin Mekan Agora, a refugee center where I run workshops with women, mostly focusing on learning English and spending time together. The atmosphere we create is special — we laugh, drink tea, share experiences, and of course, learn together. I love working there because I see the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels valued, supported, and safe.
My Life in Izmir
While this isn’t my first time living abroad, moving to Izmir has felt like a fresh beginning, in an entirely different place, with a new language and new people. I have been visiting and exploring a lot, discovering new spots every day in this vast city. This has given me the opportunity to meet many people and make new friends, both Turkish and international. I love the city and the fact that there are countless things to do. Despite its size, Izmir never feels overwhelming. On the contrary, it feels welcoming and full of life.
Experiencing Turkish Culture and Visiting New Places
In just two months, I have already had the chance to experience many facets of Turkish culture, though I know there is so much more waiting for me. For example, I was invited to a henna party — it was a beautiful event filled with music and dancing, which was a wonderful experience! I have also visited some of the most significant cultural and historical sites in Izmir, as well as two other cities. I travelled to Samsun for an on-arrival training, where I met other international volunteers from all over Türkiye. Later, I visited Pamukkale with some friends. Its natural beauty and ancient ruins were amazing. From the very first day, when I attended a local festival in Izmir, to participating in national holidays and various events, I’ve learned so much about the traditions and culture of the country.
Looking Ahead
As I mentioned earlier, this experience feels like the beginning of something new, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me. Each day brings new opportunities, and I can’t wait to create even more memories during my journey in the months to come.
Stay tuned for updates in a few months. I’ll be here for quite a while, and there is so much more to discover!