Travelling has taken Anamarija to various parts of the world, and her new address is currently in Split. After living in several different countries, this young volunteer from North Macedonia decided to start a new chapter at Sunce, where, as part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), she takes part in activities dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development.
As part of the Sunce team, Anamarija has been getting to know Split from a completely new perspective for almost half a year, discovering every day how small changes can have a big impact on people and the environment.
A step into the unknown
For Anamarija, moving to Split was not just about relocating to a new country, but an opportunity to open an entirely new chapter in her life. She comes from North Macedonia, and her love of travelling, meeting new people and exploring different cultures had already taken her to several countries. Every new environment brought her a different experience, as well as an opportunity to learn something new about the world, about others, and above all, about herself.
That is precisely why Anamarija enjoys stepping outside her comfort zone. She believes that we grow the most when we dare to step into the unknown, both personally and professionally.
When she was looking for a new opportunity, she wanted to combine several things that are important to her: living in a new environment, meeting people and discovering new cultures, and doing work that has a positive impact on the community. That is how she discovered the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), and among the different opportunities, Sunce’s work particularly caught her attention.
– When I read more about Sunce’s work, I was particularly drawn to the topics of environmental protection and sustainable development. I thought it would be a great place where I could learn, develop new skills and meet people who share similar values- Anamarija said.
She was also attracted by the city by the sea, and in Split she found exactly what she was looking for: plenty of nature, countless opportunities to explore and a relaxed way of life.
A place where she immediately became part of the team
Moving to a new country always comes with a degree of uncertainty and perhaps a little fear. However, Anamarija says that this was not the case for her.
– Everyone welcomed me warmly and they are always ready to help. The atmosphere is very pleasant, and I also like the fact that I can learn something new every day. I enjoy working in an environment where cooperation, exchanging ideas and working together towards positive change are valued, – says Anamarija, who felt from her very first day at Sunce that she was in the right place.
As a volunteer, she takes part in various activities of the Association and is learning more and more about the importance of nature protection, sustainable development and environmental conservation.
At the same time, she is gaining new knowledge, developing her skills and getting to know the local community in a way that would be difficult to experience as a tourist.
When work is done, it’s time for the sea
When she is not volunteering, Anamarija prefers to spend her time outdoors. Since moving to Split, the sea, long walks and Marjan have become part of her everyday life.
Her love of travelling remains an important part of her life, so she uses her free time to explore the rest of Croatia.
– Nature always fills me with energy. I love spending time outdoors, and since arriving in Croatia I have managed to explore several beautiful islands. Every place I have visited has its own special charm, and I always look forward to discovering new landscapes, – Anamarija told us, adding that she particularly enjoys the Dalmatian islands.
An experience that lasts beyond volunteering
For Anamarija, the ESC is much more than volunteering. It is an opportunity to meet people from different countries, gain new knowledge, build confidence and step outside her comfort zone.
To everyone considering applying to the European Solidarity Corps programme, she has this advice:
-If you love travelling, meeting new people and learning through experience, don’t be afraid to take the first step. The ESC is much more than volunteering. It is an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, grow as a person and build friendships that can last a lifetime.
Speaking of friendships, Anamarija did not arrive at Sunce alone. She was joined by her colleague Milena Trajkoska, who also came from North Macedonia to become part of the team.
There are still months of new experiences, challenges and learning ahead of Anamarija at Sunce. We are sure that Split and Dalmatia will hold a special place in her memories, just like the people she has met here. And who knows? Perhaps this ESC adventure will be just another stop on her journey around the world, but one she will always be happy to return to in her thoughts.