I never thought I’d end up in Bulgaria, but here I am, taking part in my first-ever volunteering project—and I couldn’t be more excited! As a 21-year-old guy who’s always cared about the environment but never really had the chance to do something big about it, this opportunity means a lot to me. I’ve joined an organization focused on plastic collection and recycling, and every day, I go out collecting plastic bottles and caps that people drop off in special collection points. It might not sound glamorous, but knowing that I’m making a difference keeps me motivated.

What makes this experience even better is that we don’t just collect plastic—we also teach kids about recycling and environmental protection. We visit schools and run projects to help students understand why taking care of our planet is so important. Seeing their enthusiasm and curiosity reminds me why I’m here in the first place.

Before coming to Bulgaria, I didn’t know much about the country, but it has completely blown me away. It’s full of history, breathtaking nature, and a real sense of community. I’ve explored Kazanlak, a city famous for its rose production and rich historical sites. Visiting the Rose Museum and the ancient Thracian tombs was an eye-opening experience—I never realized how deeply history is woven into everyday life here.

Another thing that really impressed me is how seriously people in Kazanlak take sustainability. The city is home to many factories and plants that focus on recycling and creating new resources. Seeing these efforts firsthand makes me hopeful that real change is possible. Coming from a small country, I’ve never seen this level of commitment to sustainability before, and it’s truly inspiring.

Bulgaria has given me so much more than just a volunteering opportunity—it’s given me new perspectives, amazing experiences, and a chance to be part of something bigger than myself. I feel like I’m not just learning about environmental protection; I’m living it. And this is only the beginning of my journey toward making the world a greener place.

Besiki Geldiashvili