News

International Education and Science Workshop Seminar by S&G

This week, on Sunday, February 16, we attended an important program as S&G Association. We held the International Education and Science Workshop program. The presentation was opened under the leadership of our association president Mr. Gürkan Bey and in the second session, he gave information about the Anna Lindh Program. Our long-term Erasmus participants made presentations containing very important information. The topics presented by our volunteers were as follows:

- Erasmus+ As a Program for Non-

Formal Education & ESC

- Anna Lindh Programme

- Erasmus for Young Enteprenerurs

- Youth in Pharmaceutical Life

- Youth and Mental Health

- Youth&Education

After the presentations, there was a Q&A session where the participants' questions were answered. The participants had fun with fun activities and games and met our volunteers. And at the end of the seminar, S&G gave 6 young participants the right to participate in volunteering projects through a raffle. In the last part of the seminar, our S&G team made their presentations and were entitled to receive certificates.

Personal testimonies of our volunteers:

Victor from Spain: ''Yesterday we attended a conference hosted by S&G. I had the opportunity to listen to my colleagues talk about topics such as Eramus+, pharmacology and the psychological problems that students may have. They all proved to be very talented speakers. I hope that this conference has helped all the attendees to make the decision to embark on new adventures abroad!''   

Presentations: 
Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs by Gentjana Hasa & Sherife Babasi: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1p3oaWVaAwNilvxi0xeXAIra2SLy9l1JJ
Youth in Pharmaceutical Life by Fadi Tawdros & Aytaj Akif Khagani: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1p3oaWVaAwNilvxi0xeXAIra2SLy9l1JJ
Youth and Mental Health by Ida Elfsborg & Emil Shivakhanov: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1s7IC1YOihchtce36DbLkPem23X4jOgcG/edit#slide=id.p1
Youth and Education by Alyona Verbnikova & Ahmet Hamza Yüksel: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1p40W0z3eiM0prLOo1LYlYZ0LNps_fYsi/edit

 

  

  

  

 

 

   
 
 

Visit from System and Generation Association to Turkish National Agency

This Wednesday, February 12, we visited the Turkish National Agency as System&Generation Association. The Turkish National Agency officials welcomed us warmly. We learned valuable information during this important visit, which allowed our new volunteers to get to know the Turkish National Agency firsthand. The officials provided us with broad and inclusive information about the institution, Erasmus Volunteering, the activities and funding of the organizations. As S&G volunteers, we presented a short video in which we repeated the words that Erasmus Volunteering reminded us. The attention and refreshments provided by the institution were of high quality. The environment for conversation was quite inclusive and friendly. This visit was critical in terms of getting to know the Turkish National Agency as well as learning about the programs for S&G volunteers.
 
Personal testimonies of our volunteers:
Farid from Azarbaijan: ‘’Today we visited Turkish lnternational Agency with the whole team and of course with our Head of the Association Mr. Gurkan. I'm so honored to meet the President of the Agency and listen to his speech which was full of valuable knowledge and information. I think, after his speech my worldvision and outlook about the Erasmus+ program increased more and more and l gained lots of new information. I would love to thank our association president and the whole for having this unforgettable day which will be a beautiful memory for all of us.’’
Karawan from Palestine: ‘’Today, we visited the Turkish National Agency. The president gave an inspiring speech about its role in youth and international cooperation. It was a great opportunity to learn more about their impact and projects.’’
Sheri from Albania: ‘’Today it was a great meeting with the president, where we had the chance to talk together with colleagues and the agency staff. Engaging with everyone in that environment was truly inspiring. It was a motivating experience for the next steps in our lives.’’
Yuli from Ukraine: ‘’Today, we visited the Turkish National Agency. This place was full of incredible and amazing people. We discovered new opportunities for development and increased our motivation to change this world.’’
Hamza from Türkiye: ‘’Today, as System and Generation Association, we had the pleasure of visiting the President of the Turkish National Agency. During our meeting, we had a productive discussion on Erasmus+ youth exchange projects and opportunities for international cooperation. We exchanged ideas on how to enhance global experiences for young people and strengthen international partnerships. We sincerely thank the President for the warm hospitality and support, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future.’’
Fadi from Egypt: ‘’Today, we visited the Turkish National Agency. We had the opportunity to meet the dedicated team working there. The President delivered a speech highlighting their ongoing efforts for improvement and digitalization. We also had the chance to discuss our ongoing projects. We are hopeful that this collaboration and support will continue.’’
Nil from France : ‘’Today, we had the opportunity to attend a conference organized by the Turkish National Agency about the Erasmus+ and ESC programs. It was an enriching experience that allowed us to gain deeper insights into the mobility, exchange, and international cooperation opportunities available for young people. The president’s speech was particularly inspiring, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in international projects and the role of partnerships in strengthening these initiatives. This meeting further motivated us to explore new opportunities and actively contribute to these programs.’’
Nela from Czech Republic: ‘’Today we had a chance to visit the Turkish National agency. We met some people that are working in that place and we had a chance to discuss our own projects and introduce ourselves. We also got some gifts and had a nice time together.’’
Margherita from Italy: ‘’Today we visited the Turkish National Agency and met with the President. It was an enriching experience, where we discovered new opportunities for international cooperation and exchanges. The President's speech was very inspiring and motivated us to actively contribute to these programs.’’
Victor from Spain: ‘’Today we visited the Turkish National Agency. We had the opportunity to talk with different workers and with the president, who explained some aspects of the work of the Agency. Some of ours colleagues presented their  projects.’’
Angelo from Italy: ‘’Today, we had the incredible opportunity to visit the Turkish National Agency,where we met with the president. It was a truly enriching and insightful experience that allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the agency’s role in fostering international cooperation and exchange programs. During our visit, we explored new opportunities for collaboration and learned about various initiatives aimed at promoting educational and cultural exchange. The President’s speech was particularly inspiring, as he highlighted the importance of global partnerships and the positive impact these programs can have on individuals and communities. His words left us highly motivated to take an active role in these initiatives, contributing to a more connected and collaborative international environment. This visit has strengthened our enthusiasm for engaging in meaningful cross-border projects and has given us a fresh perspective on the value of intercultural exchange.’’
Günay from Azerbaijan: ‘’Today, we had the opportunity to visit the Turkish National Agency, and it was a truly inspiring experience. The team was incredibly welcoming, sincere, and supportive, making us feel comfortable from the very beginning. Their dedication to education, youth development, and international collaboration is remarkable. Through their initiatives, they create valuable opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and innovation. I sincerely appreciate their efforts in fostering global connections and empowering individuals for a better future.’’
Hisham from Morocco: ‘’Today, we had the opportunity to visit the Turkish National Agency with our team and our Association President, Mr. Gurkan. Meeting the President of the Agency and his team was a valuable experience, allowing us to gain insights into their work and role in supporting various initiatives. Even though this wasn’t my first time visiting the agency, it was still a meaningful experience to reconnect and engage in discussions with their team. I appreciate System & Generation for organizing this visit and bringing us together for this exchange.’’
Kayra from Türkiye: ‘’Today, we went to the National Agency of the Republic of Turkey as part of a representative visit. We represented the System & Generations association and were informed by the National Agency officers. During this visit, it was very valuable to inform the volunteers and meet the officers. As an association, our volunteers gave gifts to the Agency officers and introduced themselves. It is very useful to organize such events and introductions.’’
Emil from Azerbaijan: ‘’Today, we had the privilege of visiting the Turkish National Agency, and it was an incredibly inspiring experience. The team’s warmth, sincerity, and support made us feel at ease right from the start. Their commitment to education, youth development, and international cooperation is truly commendable. Through their programs, they provide meaningful opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and innovation. I deeply value their efforts in building global connections and empowering people to create a brighter future.’’
Muhammed from Türkiye: ‘’We visited the Turkish National Agency on February 12. We went to the meeting room accompanied by the officers who welcomed us politely. First, we watched a short video prepared with the S&G volunteers, which show us what the word Erasmus Volunteering meant to us. Then, we listened to the information that the TRNA volunteers gave us. It was really nice to be together and learn about Erasmus volunteering. I am sure that visiting this institution added a lot to me and my volunteer friends.’’
Aytaj from Azerbaijan: ‘’On February 12, we visited the Turkish National Agency and were warmly welcomed by the officers. We watched a video created with S&G volunteers about the meaning of Erasmus Volunteering. Afterward, TRNA volunteers provided us with informative insights. It was a wonderful experience, and I’m sure it was valuable for me and my friends.’’
Alyona from Russia: ’’Such a warm meeting! The first idea of mine after visiting the Turkish National Agency with our lovely System&Generation team. During the informal meeting with the Agency’s team, we’ve discussed former and further collaborations, shared our ideas, thoughts and experience!  Such meeting are not merely about formalities, but rather uniting. Especially appropriated all personal conversations and connections, so we are looking forward for the even stronger and more productive interaction! Long hugs from Russia.’’
Erbil from Türkiye: ''Today, we visited the National Agency. They welcomed us nicely. We talked about volunteering projects and shared info about our ongoing projects. In return, they told us about beauty and diversity of Turkey, as well as mission and vision of the National Agency. Finally, we exchanged gifts and then our visit was concluded.''
 

Preparing meal packages for Ramadan

Last Wednesday, February 5th, S&G volunteers attended a food package event for families in need. Our volunteers, together with other helpful people who came to this event organized by Lösev, listened to the information given by the volunteers and helped with the organization phase. Our volunteers, who were divided into teams, placed the food packages in the boxes and then helped with the packaging part. Our volunteers had the opportunity to have a pleasant time while helping people thanks to the generous staff and volunteers of Lösev.
Personal testimonies of our volunteers:
Ceren from Turkey: ''While working, we chatted with Erasmus students and learned about their different cultures and backgrounds. It was interesting to see how volunteering brings people from all over the world together for a common cause. The atmosphere was warm and positive, everyone was motivated to do their best to help those in need.''
Victor from Spain: ''The other day we had the opportunity to help Lösev in packing food. Apart from the positive aspect of helping different families, we also had the opportunity to share the day with people of different nationalities, getting to know a little of their worldview and culture. I consider this positive for everyone's personal growth.''
Nela from Czech Republic: ''I went to Losev to help to pack packages for the cancer pacients in Turkey. We spend most of the time sorting and packing the food and donations in the boxes. We also got some lunch and snack there. I met some nice people and during the break we were dancing some turkish dance.''
        

 

Traditional Crafts and Olgunlasma Institute

This Friday, February 7th, we visited Olgunlasma Institute with our S&G volunteers. In this institute, old Turkish traditional art works are designed and various handicrafts are made. With the helpful guidance of the staff, our volunteers had the opportunity to tour the inside of this institute and visit the workshops. They discovered how handicrafts such as felt, marbling and embroidery are made and had a great time. It was very enjoyable and inspiring to be here as S&G volunteers.
 
Personal testimonies from our volunteers:
Farid from Azarbaijan: ''It was a nice experience visiting Olgunlasma lnstitute. We went there as a group of team and l can say that it was one of my best experiences l have ever had. We could get a chance to take a look at different rooms of the lnstitution where different kinds of handcraft were made and shown. Some of them were even on sale for the visitors and guests which is really attractive for them. We could get enough information about each room we entered. For foreigners there was a native Turkish person who was performing as a translator at the same time the head of each room was giving information about the handcraft. For example, we entered 4 or 5 handcraft rooms and l can say all of them became my favorites that l could hardly choose among them as my most favorite. So, it was a good experience and an unforgettable adventure after all.''
 
Nela from Chech Republic: ''We visited the university of art and we saw a lot of ateliers including creating rings, scarfs, pottery and paintings. The employes explained how they are making it and what the process. It was a nice experience.'' 
 
  

Visit from System and Generation Association to UKDA Association

We visited Fahri Temizyürek. During our visit, we had a pleasant and productive conversation on the importance of Turkish and Turkish culture. We also exchanged ideas on developing joint projects and establishing collaborations in the future.
 
    
Tap to the View! 
 
While UKDA makes significant contributions to the promotion of Turkish culture with cultural events and language research, we, as System and Generation Association, carry out projects that support the access of young people to international learning opportunities. This visit was an important step for future cooperation in line with the common goals of both associations.
 
Wishing to sign more powerful projects together!

Making Sandwiches with Miss Margherita

On Wednesday, February 5th, our volunteers went to Miss Margarita. They made one hundred sandwiches for UNHCR refugees. In this charitable event, they learned about refugees and the hardships they face. They also worked as a team and made 100 sandwiches for those in need.
 
Personal testimonies of our volunteers:
Angelo from Italia: ''Today we went to Miss Margherita and prepared a hundred sandwiches for the UNHCR refugees. It wasn't just preparing food, but we discovered, thanks to a chat with Margherita, the realities and critical issues that these people are forced to face. People not welcomed in their country and who are trying to build their own future. I wish them the best!''
 
Margherita from Italy: ''This morning Angelo and I went to Mrs. Margherita's house where we assembled about a hundred sandwiches for the UNHCR refugees. Afterwards we went to the shelter and distributed the sandwiches and the soup prepared by Mrs. Margherita. Margherita explained to us how the shelter works and what people have to do to be able to leave the country. It was interesting to listen to her words and understand how difficult it is for refugees to be able to change their lives.''

Link: - https://www.facebook.com/share/1YGezc4Ya9/?mibextid=xfxF2i

         - https://www.facebook.com/groups/167152731377993/permalink/1342485933844661/?mibextid=xfxF2i&rdid=Sdwi0LANEtfz2HrD#

 

 

"Building Bridges Between Nations" in partnership with Greece.

We are happy to announce the mobility of action project has been accepted!

 

Tap to the view! 

You’ve heard us say ALF is a network of networks, but have you ever imagined what that means?

We’re giving you a glimpse of what ALF is all about, how our civil society networks come together to collaborate and create powerful, lasting partnerships built on inspiring knowledge, driving action and uniting cultures.
Our networks create unique experiences across the EuroMed, paving the way for everlasting human connections that you can be a part of!

 

Discovering the Beauty of Azerbaijan!

This month, we explored the vibrant culture of Azerbaijan through its traditional dances, delicious cuisine, and rich heritage. Our volunteers had an amazing time learning and experiencing the wonders of this beautiful country! 
 
We were captivated by the lively yalli and lezginka dances, where every movement and costume reflected the deep cultural history of Azerbaijan. The traditional cuisine was another highlight plov, kebabs, and baklava offered a taste of the country’s diverse flavors and culinary traditions.
 
The warmth and hospitality of the Azerbaijani people made our journey even more special. Whether exploring ancient Gobustan Rock Art or the modern sights of Baku, we were reminded of how rich and welcoming this country truly is.
 
Our volunteers left with unforgettable memories and a greater appreciation for Azerbaijan’s culture and history. This experience was a beautiful reminder of the power of cultural exchange. Stay tuned for more updates from our adventures!
 
   
 
Click here to view more photos from the Azerbaijan event at TAD Preschool.
 
Gəlin, Azərbaycanın Gözəlliyini Kəşf Edək!
 
Bu ay, biz Azərbaycanın zəngin mədəniyyətini, ənənəvi rəqslərini, ləzzətli mətbəxini və tarixi irsini kəşf etdik. Könüllülərimiz bu gözəl ölkənin möcüzələrini öyrənmək və yaşamaqdan inanılmaz zövq aldılar! 
 
Biz *yallı* və *lezginka* kimi hərəkətli rəqslərdən heyran qaldıq, hər hərəkət və geyim Azərbaycanın dərin mədəni tarixini əks etdirirdi. Ənənəvi mətbəx də başqa bir vurğulanan nöqtə oldu *plov*, *şiş kebabları* və *baklava* ölkənin müxtəlif ləzzətləri və kulinariya ənənələrini təklif etdi.
 
Azərbaycan xalqının qonaqpərvərliyi bizim səyahətimizi daha da xüsusi etdi. İstər qədim *Qobustan Daş Boyaqları* ilə tanış olmaq, istərsə də Bakıdakı müasir görməli yerləri ziyarət etmək bu ölkənin nə qədər zəngin və qonaqpərvər olduğunu bir daha hiss etdik.
 
Könüllülərimiz unudulmaz xatirələrlə və Azərbaycanın mədəniyyəti və tarixi ilə bağlı daha dərin bir təqdirlə ayrıldılar. Bu təcrübə, mədəni mübadilənin gücünü gözəl şəkildə xatırlatdı. Macəralarımızla bağlı daha çox yeniliklər üçün bizə qoşulun! 

 

BALKAN FOUNDATION EVENT

Last Wednesday, November 6th, System & Generation volunteers had the honour to participate in the event commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Balkan exodus to Türkiye. The event took place in the rectorate building of Gazi Üniversitesi and was attended by illustrious people such as the rector Dr. Uğur Ünal, the deputy Emine Yavuz Gözgeç, and the governor of the city of Ankara himself, Vasip Şahin. During the event there were numerous exhibitions that showed the cultural richness of the Balkans and how these have been moulded and merged with the traditions and culture of Türkiye, highlighting the coexistence and harmony between cultures. System & Generation volunteers helped with tasks such as checking the attendees, making attendance certificates, organising the furniture, etc. The participation of our volunteers was active but especially that of one of our volunteers, who performed dressed in traditional Balkan clothes.

Personal testimonies of our volunteers:

Sheri from Albania: “The 100-year separation program organised by the Balkan Foundation, along with their collaboration and the way they managed the conference, was impressive. They shared with us how important it is to keep connections, even if you are far from your homeland. As a person from the Balkans, it made me feel very special and patriotic, and I felt warmly welcomed in Turkey.”

Fadi from Egypt: “The day was truly special. It took place at Gazi University, ranked ninth in Turkey. I was captivated by its beautiful architecture and the expansive green spaces. It was an honour to meet people from Turkey, Kosovo, and Macedonia. We played a crucial role in organising the event’s workflow and collecting participants’ names for Attending Certificates. Additionally, my college and I prepared traditional beverages for all the invited guests. The event was organised by the Balkan Foundation. The participants presented captivating videos showcasing their culture and habits, which were fascinating to me. It was an unforgettable day filled with new experiences and cultural insights.”

Julie from France and Klaudia from Poland: “From the eyes of Julie from France and Klaudia from Poland, it was an enriching experience of discovering balkan culture for example the music or the traditional clothing and food. They were in charge of preparing tea and coffee, as well as welcoming guests.”

Gianluca from Italy: “The conference for me was an important time of sharing but at the same time also a fun time . We made Turkish coffee for the people at the conference and it was funny because afterwards we thought about opening a coffee shop together. Then when we attended the conference we found ourselves listening to the Balkan songs and dances, afterwards we wıtnessed testimonies of the people from the Balkans together with other important local people… it was really a nice day and an important time of sharing together with other volunteers and the people who work to make this event possible.”

Valeria from Ukraine: “It was a really cool experience to wear traditional clothes of Macedonia and to explore a new culture in this interesting unusual way. But it was funny that people came to me and started to speak in Macedonian language and were so surprised when I answered that I’m from Ukraine. People at Balkan conference were so interesting and friendly, we communicated a lot and had a great time!”

Pablo from Spain: “Participating in this Balkan Vakfı event has been a most rewarding and enriching experience. Helping in the celebration of this event has helped us to increase our knowledge of the subject, our protocol skills and, above all, to meet and interact with people from different countries in the Balkans. It was a very interesting event where we learned a lot about the journey and importance of Türkiye in the region, enjoyed the music and food and heard the testimonies of the descendants of those who migrated to Türkiye. Definitely an event to remember.”

Ida from Denmark: “Last week, we were invited by the Balkan Vakfı (Association) to participate at their Balkan Conference, that took place at Gazı University in an old fascinating ottoman-style building. There was traditional music, food, and dresses from the Balkan countries, as well as speeches and a documentary movie about the relationship between Türkiye and the Balkan countries. All in all, it was more of a celebration of the brother- and sisterhood between the different countries and its people, than it was of an anniversary of 100 years of separation. Volunteering with S&G there meant for us to help preparing and getting ready the hall before the participants arrived, welcoming and registering them on arrival, making them good Turkish coffee, and supporting the organisers in keeping an eye on everything and helping where it was needed. We met people that had come from many different places to attend the event, and it was joyful for us both to talk with them and learn about their cultures.

Solidarity with S&G. Volunteering at Engelsiz Yaşam Merkezi in Etimesgut.
13
Nov
Solidarity with S&G. Volunteering at Engelsiz Yaşam Merkezi in Etimesgut.

Solidarity with S&G. Volunteering at Engelsiz Yaşam Merkezi (Disabiltiy-Free Life Center) in Etimesgut.




PreviousNext