🌍 How Volunteering Helped Me Grow: A Journey in Sofia, A Discovery Within

SWEDEN/KIRUNA

Volunteering abroad has been one of the most transformative decisions of my life. When I arrived in Sofia, it was the first time I had ever lived away from my family. I was trying to build a life on my own in a completely new environment. Now, after nearly seven months here, I realize that I haven’t just learned how to live in another country — I’ve also discovered a whole new version of myself.

As a volunteer, I’ve been working with children in need — some with ADHD,

hyperactivity, or intellectual disabilities. Spending time with them every day has shown me how deeply a family influences a child’s mental development and behavior. I was honestly surprised by my observations. For example, when a child didn’t respond even after being called several times, I often noticed that their parents also struggled with listening or paying attention. These patterns were eye-opening and made me realize how much we mirror those closest to us.

This experience has not only given me a more professional perspective but also touched my heart in ways I never expected. There were days when just one hug from a child was enough to make everything better. When you feel their pure, unconditional love, you understand the true value of human connection. Those little moments — a smile, a hug, a sparkle in their eyes — are truly priceless. In those moments, the noise of the world fades away, and all that remains is the present, full of honesty and warmth.

Outside of volunteering, daily life here taught me independence. I learned how to cook for myself, do my own shopping, take care of myself when I was sick, and most importantly, how to cope with missing home. These things were difficult at first, but they helped me grow stronger. Every day, I would ask myself: “What did I learn today?” And I always found an answer.

Yes, there were moments of loneliness, language barriers, and homesickness. But within each challenge, I found a new skill, a new lesson, or a deeper sense of resilience. Volunteering in Sofia didn’t just give me the chance to touch other people’s lives — it gave me the space to rebuild my own from the inside out.

Looking back now, I see a more confident, patient, and empathetic version of myself. For me, volunteering has not only been about helping others, but also about growing, learning, and becoming the person I truly want to be.