Welcome Ezra!

Olá, I’m Ezra, a 22-year-old adventurer from Turkey with a strong love for nature, cultures, and connection. I’ll spend this year in Portugal as a long-term volunteer with Rota Vicentina. This opportunity excites me in countless ways, not just because I get to immerse myself in a beautiful region, but also because it allows me to contribute to something meaningful.

I was born into an intercultural family on the Aegean coast of Turkey. Growing up, I was raised in an environment where stories were told in different languages, traditions were shared across cultures, and values like empathy and understanding were deeply rooted. Living in a small region surrounded by mountains and beaches, I often rode my bike through mountains, experienced various water sports, and did gardening in the endless fields. This early exposure to nature lit my passion for outdoor adventures.

Due to my family, I relocated frequently, and thanks to that I had the privilege of experiencing life in various cities and countries. Every new place brought new people, languages, and perspectives into my life. This shaped me into open-mindedness and adaptability which I believe will be essential during my time at Rota Vicentina.

I always spent a life immersed in the outdoors and sports, even living in metropolitan cities. As a kid, I always enjoyed helping welfare services in the communities I lived in and working in my school’s volunteering activities. When it was time for university, I pursued a degree in Public Administration and Communication. During my studies, I was actively involved in volunteering and youth mentorship programs, both locally and internationally. I have traveled and volunteered numerous times, from working on sustainable agricultural practices in Morocco to helping nursing homes in the US.

These experiences not only expanded my cultural understanding but also strengthened my belief in the power of connection and the importance of giving back to communities.

When I first heard about Rota Vicentina, I felt an instant connection to its mission. I’ve always been passionate about travel, and exploring the world while respecting the environment and local communities. One of my most memorable experiences was hiking alone in parts of the Camino de Santiago during my studies in Spain. Despite the pouring rain, it was an amazing way to explore and connect with nature. Similarly, back home, I used to ride my bike through mountain trails near my hometown, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and these moments shaped my deep appreciation for nature and adventure.

Rota Vicentina stands out because it blends nature with culture in such a meaningful way. Volunteering with Rota Vicentina feels like the perfect opportunity to combine my love for nature, culture, and community. I’m excited to step into this new chapter, embrace the challenges that come my way, and grow as a person. I hope to contribute meaningfully to Rota Vicentina’s mission, deepening my connection with nature, developing new skills, improving my Portuguese skills, and leaving a positive impact on the community.

This experience is more than just volunteering for me: it’s about personal growth, learning, and contributing in ways that leave a lasting impact.

Brindemos Here’s to new beginnings, new friendships, and new stories.

Até breve!