Written by: Lovre Bralić and Lucija Tudić, sociology students
My name is Milijana Bogdanoska, I am 24 years old, and I come from Skopje, Macedonia. I recently graduated with a master’s degree in business law in Skopje, and I have been volunteering at the Sunce association since February. My main hobby is playing the piano (when I am home in Skopje), and in my free time, I also meditate and read books. I love to travel, and I try to go somewhere every three months – that’s how I recharge my batteries.
Did you have any ESC experience before volunteering at Sunce?
Not specifically ESC, but I traveled as part of an Erasmus project in high school.
Why did you choose Split and Sunce for volunteering?
Because I had already been to Split through Erasmus during college. What I liked about here is the lifestyle, the people, the mentality, the location… I chose Sunce because I didn’t gained enough knowledge about environmental law during my studies, and Croatia has similar waste management issues as Macedonia. I wanted to learn more about the directives related to environmental law so that I could apply what I learn in my own country. I connected the volunteering experience with my career!
How do you like the atmosphere and programs at Sunce? What do you like the most?
I like everything! The relationship with colleagues in particular – I am fascinated by how understanding everyone is, how everyone is always ready to help, and despite the number of people, we all have a good relationship and communication. My favorite activity at Sunce is the Swap Fair.
What do you think of Split? What attracts you the most, and what do you like the least about the city?
Currently, I like everything – everything, everything! Admittedly, maybe that’s because I am here as an employee/tourist and haven’t spent enough time to see any negative aspects, but so far, even the large number of tourists doesn’t bother me.
Is there something you do in Split that you didn’t do back home in Skopje?
Hmm… Recycling! I never recycled at home in Macedonia because there is no obligation to do so. We only have one bin for all types of waste. Here in Split, separating waste has become a habit, and I hope to maintain this habit when I return to Macedonia. I am proud of myself and the change in my mindset.
What do you do in your free time?
Here, I have a boyfriend and a circle of Erasmus friends from Macedonia, so I go out with them. I am not particularly interested in any specific sport, but I love walking and running on Marjan. Marjan won my heart over! I also meditate there. These days, I’ll try to gather the courage to swim in the sea.
What is the biggest culture clash you encountered here?
The ‘pomalo’ mentality. I always knew that life here is calm and slow, but I didn’t know it was to this extent. It was a shock because life in Skopje is very fast. Here, ‘pomalo’ has infiltrated all aspects of life. Work and tasks are done slowly, without stress and pressure.
Can you imagine yourself living in Split long-term?
Yes. I usually don’t have strict life plans, I let things take their course, but for now, I want to stay here.
Any advice or tips for new volunteers at Sunce?
Expect everything. Sunce is very dynamic, which I like.
Do you have anything to add at the end?
I have to admit that I really miss ‘gravče na tavče‘ from Macedonia! I know there is a “Macedonian House” here, but it’s not the same.
The project “Solidarity for Green Dalmatia 2023” is funded by the European Union through the European Solidarity Corps program. Learn more about the European Solidarity Corps program here.
