Hello, my name is Aleksandra, I’m from Macedonia and I volunteer at Sunce which is a non-governmental, non-party and non-profit organization in Split – Croatia. Sunce was founded in 1998 and today is one of the leading organizations for nature and environment protection in Croatia.

The need for change and the fast-paced life of Skopje made me think of this opportunity.  The first feeling was fear and I thought I don’t have the courage to escape my comfort zone. I needed some time to think, but finally, my decision was made with the support of my friends. I saw this project on VCS social media and thought why not?

My adventure started three weeks ago. At first, it was strange to get out of that comfort zone that we all have, in a new environment, with new people. But as the days passed, the feelings changed. Now I think being a volunteer is great! You are not limited with time and tasks. I have always been drawn to my comfort zone, and this opportunity changed me, I never thought that I would be where I am now.

Why this organization? I chose it because of my love for nature and desire to help with activities and events that tackle environmental protection topics. The mission of Sunce as one of the leading Croatian organizations is to educate and inform about the protection of nature, raising awareness of the problems with eco-systems and keeping the sea clean. They also teach how to recycle and inform people about reusing plastic and paper. My goal is to learn as much as possible to bring more knowledge home.

My volunteering activities include educating children through games about recycling and bio-waste, making masks and artwork with children from recycled paper and plastic, cleaning beaches, and organizing swap fairs (donation and exchange of old usable staff). I also get to know volunteers from other organizations, and their activities and of course have some fun and explore Split and Croatia.

My advice for all young people who consider volunteering – this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity worth experiencing. The feeling is excellent! You get to know other young inspiring people who have the same interests as you, you learn every day something new and improve yourself. In my opinion, the feeling can be experienced, not told.

Aleksandra Nikoloska

ESC project: “Solidarity for Green Dalmatia”.