My first month in Lithuania

It has already been my first month in Lithuania. Leaving my comfort zone: my family house, Baku, my friends was little bit challenging in the beginning. But other volunteers and workmates welcomed me so warmly. I easily became friends with other volunteers and they showed me interesting sights of Vilnius.

Of course, starting to live in a whole different country, getting used to new people and their culture was a little hard in the beginning, but I got easily adapted.

In my previous experiences, I have worked with youngsters, but working in a social work field and trying to educate and entertain them in the same time was a new challenge for me to work on.

In this last month, we went to Sirvintos High School for 3 times to teach English lessons. We introduced ourselves and our Youth Center to 9th and 10th grade students. Playing some games and doing debates with students was very interesting. It helped me to learn about Lithuanian youngsters and their opinions about world.

I also participated in Mobile Youthwork in Gelvonai and Musninkai twice this month. It was incredible experience for me. I can confess that I struggled a bit to communicate and get along with them in the beginning, but I think I managed well and we had some fun while activities. In Gelvonai, we made Turkish Kebab, decorated our room for Valentines day and Independence Day of Lithuania. The activities in Musninkai were quite interesting for me. Making Cold Beet Soup (šaltibarščiai) and playing games were helpful to make a bond with youngsters.

Since I am a new volunteer, I went to an arrival training for a week. This training was deeply informative and entertaining for me. Meeting volunteers from different countries, having instructive trainings from great trainers was immaculate. I believe that, trainings are going to be very helpful during my volunteering journey.

Spending this one incredible month in Lithuania was incredible and inspiring. I am excited to spend my next 4 months full of new experiences, travelling and amusing activities.