My two-month volunteering experience in Gaziantep has been a beautiful and meaningful chapter of my life. As a volunteer with Bülbülzade Foundation, I had the opportunity to meet wonderful people, discover a new environment and learn many things through this experience.
From the beginning, I was warmly welcomed by the amazing team. Everyone was kind, supportive and always ready to help. Being part of such a friendly team made me feel comfortable and helped me enjoy my volunteering experience.
During my volunteering, I had the opportunity to teach English to children. I prepared simple and fun activities to help them learn basic English while making the sessions enjoyable. Seeing the children participate, learn new words and enjoy the activities was one of the most rewarding parts of my experience.
Teaching English also helped me develop my communication, creativity, patience and organizational skills. Every session was different, and I learned how to adapt to the children and make learning more enjoyable for them.
As a Moroccan volunteer, I also enjoyed discovering Turkish culture. I did not experience a strong cultural difference because I noticed some similarities with Moroccan culture, especially when it comes to food and traditions. At the same time, I discovered new things and experienced moments that I will always remember.
Living abroad for two months also taught me to be more independent and confident. Being away from my family and adapting to a different environment was sometimes challenging, but these experiences helped me grow as a person.
I am especially grateful to the whole Bülbülzade team for their kindness, support and trust. I am also grateful to all the people I met during this journey who made these two months so special.
I am leaving Gaziantep with beautiful memories, new skills, new friendships and a different perspective. This experience showed me that volunteering is not only about helping others, but also about learning, growing and discovering yourself.
These two months will always have a special place in my heart.
ESC Volunteer
Bahhar Hiba
