Ceyhun ONAÇ

Hello everyone,

I am Ceyhun Onaç. I recently had the chance to join a two-month volunteering project in Italy. It was a first for me in many ways: my first volunteering project and my first long stay abroad. Being in a country whose culture and language I have always been drawn to made it even more meaningful.

Over two months I had the chance to work with students from other countries. Getting to know other cultures and meeting a range of perspectives were among the things that widened my horizons. I also had the chance to discover new cities and experience different ways of living.

The Volunteering

My project took place in Treviso, in northern Italy. This city, striking for its history and character, was my home for two months.

I volunteered in two primary schools. While supporting the teachers’ work I ran a range of activities with the pupils. I also gave presentations introducing Turkish culture, shared information about our traditions and had the chance to engage with the students through intelligence games.

It was a mutual experience: I did not only contribute, I learned a great deal.

What It Gave Me

The project did not only introduce me to a new country and culture; it contributed significantly to my personal growth.

Taking responsibility in an unfamiliar environment in another country, and managing my daily life on my own, increased my confidence. Being able to adapt to new situations and complete the process successfully strengthened my belief in myself.

I also experienced how instructive it is to live and work alongside different people. I learned to approach people’s ideas, ways of life and cultural differences more openly. The experience showed me how valuable it is to step outside your comfort zone.

Thank You

Thank you to KOZ-DER for offering me this opportunity and for the important role they played in starting my volunteering journey. Thanks to their support I had an experience I will never forget.

I would also like to thank the Centro Educativo di Progettazione e Hosting Internazionale team, who welcomed us so warmly, supported us in everything and made us feel at home.

The experience I gained over those two months, the friendships I built and the new things I learned mean a great deal to me. I believe this experience will guide the steps I take in future.

As my first volunteering project, this journey will remain one of the most special memories of my life.

Thank you, KOZ-DER.