Burak EMRE

New Experiences That Start with One Step 🇧🇬

Hello everyone! I’m Burak Emre from Gaziantep. I’m interested in software, artificial intelligence and digital technologies, and I keep working to improve myself in these fields.

Sometimes the opportunities that change our lives begin with a single brave step. What matters is not knowing everything, but being open to learning and new experiences. Because when we step out of our comfort zone, we begin to discover our true potential.

Through KOZ-DER, I took part in the Digital Democracy: Youth Voices Online! Erasmus+ youth exchange held in Pazardzhik, Bulgaria, from 28 October to 6 November 2026.

Thanks to this project, I had the chance both to get to know new cultures and to learn about digital media, artificial intelligence and the impact of technology on our daily lives.

Different Cultures, New Friendships

Throughout the project we met young people from different countries, shared our cultures and took part in many activities together.

One of my most important gains was the chance to improve my English. Although there were moments when communicating was hard at first, over time I began to express myself much more comfortably.

Digital Democracy and AI 🤖

In the activities we worked on democracy, freedom of expression, digital rights, media literacy and misinformation.

We did group presentations, poster making, role plays and video work. We also looked at how AI-supported digital tools can be used in content creation.

As I am especially interested in technology and AI, these sessions were very valuable for me.

A First Step with a Burgundy Passport 🛂

Because I hold an ordinary (burgundy) Turkish passport, I first thought the visa process would be difficult. With KOZ-DER’s guidance, I prepared everything needed and completed my visa much faster than I expected.

This experience showed me that our prejudices should not stop us from taking up opportunities.

New Goals

I came back from Bulgaria with new friendships, beautiful memories and new perspectives.

This experience strengthened my wish to improve my English, join new volunteering projects in Europe and continue my education abroad in the future.

Thank You

I thank KOZ-DER for making this experience possible, our host organisation Association FORUM, our organisers and all the friends with whom I made unforgettable memories.

For me this project was not just a trip abroad, but an important experience that contributed to my personal growth and motivates me to reach my future goals. 💙