What Remains When the Walls Come Down

Hello, I am Cuma Çepik.

When I started the project in Kilis, with its distinct dusty heat and welcoming atmosphere, I honestly had quite a few questions in mind. Four countries that share borders on a map but sometimes feel worlds apart in people’s minds: Bulgaria, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye. At first, “No More Walls, Europe Calls” sounded like just another catchy project title. Little did I know how much it would truly live up to its name over the next ten days.

First Encounters and a Natural Rhythm

The initial awkwardness and the funny mispronunciations of each other’s names quickly gave way to a natural rhythm. During the day, we spent hours in workshops breaking down real and invisible borders, tackling prejudices and sharing perspectives. By evening, those heavy topics turned into effortless laughter over shared plates of local food, attempts to match the boundless energy of Georgian dances and endless “we actually say the exact same thing!” moments with the Azerbaijani team. The warm, grounded vibe of the Bulgarian group tied everything together, turning a room full of strangers into a close-knit circle within just a few days.

Beyond Invisible Walls

Late-night conversations over tea, spontaneous jams during the intercultural nights and walking through the streets of Kilis together proved one simple truth: the walls that divide people rarely exist on maps. They exist in our minds, and they start to crumble the moment we truly sit down and listen to one another.

Saying Goodbye

Saying goodbye was, as expected, difficult. Lingering hugs, emotional promises to stay in touch and that familiar ache of an unforgettable chapter coming to an end stayed with all of us. When I left Kilis, I was not just carrying a few souvenirs. I was also carrying genuine friendships with people I know I can now visit in Tbilisi, Baku and Sofia.

What It Meant to Me

For me, this project was not just a ten-day international activity. It was also a powerful reminder of human connection, cultural closeness and our shared values. Without a doubt, it was one of the most meaningful ten-day experiences of my life. It reminded me that when you tear down the walls, what remains is pure human connection.