This is probably the phrase I repeated most as a child, with all the innocent excitement of a dream that seemed impossible. And yet, here I am today, living that dream in Türkiye, thanks to my volunteer work in Izmir.
My name is Camilia, I’m 20 years old, I’m French, and in just a few lines, I’ll try to share with you this amazing journey that began in September, right by the Aegean Sea.
My Life in Izmir
Even though I have only been in Izmir for two months, it already feels like home. The warm, relaxed vibe of the city makes me feel like I belong. Cozy cafes, mouth-watering restaurants, cats watching over the streets, and perfect weather — Izmir is just that kind of place.
My life here is a mix of volunteering, meeting new people, going out with friends, and a bit of sport. I’m constantly stepping out of my comfort zone. For example, I speak English every day and sometimes even Turkish when I’m feeling brave! I can tell I am making progress day by day.
The other volunteers, with whom I spend most of my time, make this adventure even better. Each of us has our own style, our own personality, and together, we’re kind of like the Avengers (minus the superpowers, unfortunately).
And I’d be a terrible roommate if I didn’t mention the four amazing girls I share my flat with. Coraline, Irmina, Franca, and Ida make my daily life so much brighter. They are always there for me, making every day unforgettable. Here’s hoping that you all get roommates as awesome as mine someday!
Finally, the thing I love most about being here is the hospitality and kindness of the people. There’s a warmth and willingness to help that I’ve never seen anywhere else, a quality that makes Turkish culture so special and worth preserving.
Volunteering and Workshops
Most of my days are filled with volunteering. I mostly lead conversation clubs in French and English, but I also get to attend seminars, forums, and various events. Each workshop is unique, with different groups and skill levels, which makes every experience one of a kind. Overall, I’m really happy with how my workshops are going. The mentors are a huge help with communication, and the participants are always so engaged.
One of my most memorable experiences is the weekly conversation club at Sakin Mekan Agora with local women. With Laura, we teach basic English to these incredible ladies, who are so motivated to learn. For them, learning an international language opens up new skills and opportunities.
We learn English in a non-formal way, play games, listen to music, and always keep things light-hearted. I’m truly in awe of their dedication; despite the challenges, they give it their all to understand. I’ve never seen them down. Their smiles light up the room, and we always, without fail, take a break for tea time. Seeing their joy when they learn simple words like “cucumber” or “car” is priceless.
I’m so grateful for these kinds of rewarding experiences that make me love dedicating my time to volunteering. It’s humbling to know I can make a difference, however small, and that my help is appreciated.
Izmir and Side Quests
Besides the center of Izmir, I’ve had the chance to explore many beautiful places in my free time. I’ve hiked breathtaking mountains, where the peacefulness of the landscapes helped me truly disconnect.
I also got to swim until October, and though the water was freezing towards the end, it was an amazing experience! In Çeşme and Foça, the water is so clear that you can see the bottom from meters away — it’s like a real-life postcard.
But the adventure that left the biggest impression on me so far has been our trip to Ödemiş. With Yann and Nina, we went there on a whim, drawn to discover the local culture off the beaten path. And what a discovery it was! The locals welcomed us like lifelong friends, proudly showing us around their town and offering us a glimpse into their world. For one weekend, they opened their lives to us, sharing their stories, smiles, and even a few well-kept secrets. I’ll forever be grateful to them.
Looking Ahead
To wrap up, I just want to express my deep gratitude for this project, which has already brought me so much. In just two months, I have achieved things I never thought I could: it’s like I have rediscovered a new side of myself. And it’s all thanks to the association, the other volunteers who have become real friends, the locals who share their culture, and the workshop participants who inspire me every day.
