In March 2025, We were lucky enough to team volunteer with the European Solidarity Corps in Gaziantep, Turkey.
It was one of those experiences that touched me deeply and gave me so much that putting it into words isn’t easy — but I’m here, excited to share my story with you. For two weeks, we were working with children (also refugees) in different youth centres and kindergartens. Every day, We spent with them was special — we played, laughed, learned together. We shared parts of my culture, taught them some English, and they taught us words from their own language. It wasn’t just about language or activities — it was about connection. Their energy, their smiles, the way they welcomed us — we felt something real and meaningful. We also had to lead workshops at Gaziantep University with uni, both beginner and advanced students. We were not just “teaching” — We were learning too. These sessions turned into moments of genuine exchange, where we all grew together in our own way.
One of the most beautiful parts of this project was the cultural diversity. We met amazing people from
Spain, Syria, and Turkey, and through cultural nights, we shared our traditions, music, and stories. I felt
incredibly proud to represent Armenia — especially when we presented an Armenian traditional wedding ceremony. Everyone was so engaged and curious, and it felt like a small piece of my home had reached people from all over the world.
And of course, we had time to travel and explore too. Gaziantep is such a vibrant, historic city with some of the most delicious food I’ve ever tasted. I enjoyed every moment — from simple walks to deep conversations with new friends.
This experience gave us so much — more than We ever expected. It helped us grow, opened our heart, and reminded us how powerful human connection can be, no matter where we come from.
If I could experience the same again, I would do it a hundred times or maybe more, because who can get enough from cultural exchanges?
