Our ESC project with reference number 2022-1-LV02-ESC51-VTJ-000067663 was completed on 27/12/2024.
Sevcan Bozkurt
When I joined the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), I wasn’t sure what to expect. Volunteering in a country I had never visited before, speaking a language I didn’t know, seemed daunting. But I knew I wanted to challenge myself, explore my skills as a designer, and contribute to something meaningful. Latvia turned out to be more than just a destination; it became a chapter of personal and professional growth.
I worked with World-Our Home, the hosting organization, in various meaningful ways. I had the opportunity to visit technical and secondary schools to promote the Erasmus+ program and the European Solidarity Corps to students. I spoke to young people about these opportunities, shared my experiences, and encouraged them to consider volunteering or studying abroad.
To represent my country, Turkey, I prepared presentations about Turkish culture, traditions, and cuisine. These sessions allowed me to share my heritage.
Beyond presentations, I contributed as a designer within the organization. I worked on creating posters, info packs, and logos for events and initiatives, using design as a tool to communicate ideas clearly and inspire participation.
One of my most impactful projects was working with the local theater. My role involved designing posters, brochures, and PDFs. I also had the chance to assist in decorating the stage after plays.
I volunteered at a summer camp organized by a local school. I played games with the children and took care of them. During this experience, I also learned how to make a balloon dog.
Another highlight was helping organize the Family Day, where families came together for activities. It was so fun to watch families play games with their children.
One of my responsibilities was introducing new volunteers to the city. Acting as a guide, I showed them local landmarks, shared tips about life in Latvia, and helped them settle in.
Working alongside volunteers from different countries was another enriching experience. I learned about their cultures, shared my own, and built friendships that crossed borders.
Professionally, I honed my skills as a designer: creating materials, understanding user needs, and collaborating with diverse teams. Personally, I discovered resilience, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation for cultural exchange.
Muharrem Umut Palabıyık
My name is Muharrem Umut Palabıyık, and I am currently participating in a European Solidarity Corps (ESC) project in the charming city of Rezekne, Latvia. This opportunity has allowed me to grow personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful initiatives in the local community.
One of my primary tasks is managing social media platforms. Through content creation, planning, and engagement, I help showcase the project's activities and the vibrant community of Rezekne.
Another exciting part of my role involves improving the project's website. By adding new features and optimizing its design, I aim to make the site more user-friendly and refective of the project's goals. This aspect of my work allows me to merge technical skills with creativity, contributing to the project's long-term visibility.
Rezekne is a hub of diverse and impactful projects, and I take pride in supporting these initiatives. Among the most notable ones are two highly signifcant efforts: a project raising awareness about the 2024 European Parliament election and another focused on combating cyberbullying. The frst aims to inform and educate people about the importance of their participation in shaping Europe’s future, while the second tackles the pressing issue of online harassment, promoting safer digital spaces. Contributing to these meaningful projects has been both fulflling and enlightening, allowing me to collaborate with dedicated teams and make a tangible difference.
Living and working in Latvia has been an eye-opening experience. Immersing myself in Latvian culture, traditions, and daily life has broadened my perspective. At the same time, I have shared my own background, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
For anyone considering volunteering with ESC, I wholeheartedly recommend it. The impact you can make in a community, paired with the personal growth you experience, is truly unparalleled.