Cem Bilen Blog | European Voluntary Service | Leonardo da Vinci Programme

'Creative Thinking With Leonardo da Vinci'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Thu, 31 May 2012 09:48:00 +0000

'Perfect day would start with going to a country where they speak a language I don't know... New customs someplace where I'm completely out of my element… ' Dan in Real Life

University of Augsburg | Germany

Servus,

After a long time, I got a second chance to go abroad with the Lifelong Learning Programme. Last month, I arrived in Augsburg to begin a three-week media programme, funded by the EU, which aims to foster greater working mobility within Europe.

The programme started with cultural training, helping participants to settle in with advice about travel, communication, and accommodation. Afterwards, we visited many local and international media companies in Bavaria. In all the programme activities, we saw Germany’s creative side in a short term. The professionals in field of media shared their experiences with us.

Salzburg | Austria

Europe creates opportunities | the Leonardo da Vinci programme

In my opinion, the Leonardo da Vinci programmes are a powerful tool for vocational education. With no doubt, the programme gives us a great opportunity to acquire new knowledge, skills and competencies. The programme improves both personally and professional development.

Augsburg | Germany

Augsburg | one of Germany's oldest cities

At the end of this process, it is not only about vocational education. During the programme, I got another chance to travel to many places in Bavaria, in my leisure times. The roots of west Europe history always interest me a lot; I have been very impressed by Germany in general. The nature, rich history and cultural life they all left a deep impression on me. I have to be able to say that sincerely. Augsburg is the city of the Fuggers, Mozart and Brecht. Its rich history is evident wherever you look. And Also, Augsburg is a big bicycle city,so it is one of most livable places.

Prague | Czech Republic

Discover | all details about my experience:

There are many places I'll remember. So I recorded a summary video about this experience with my camcorder. And also, you may find three photo albums:

► Augsburg with The Leonardo da Vinci Programme | A summary video about the programme
► Photo album I | The city of Augsburg
► Photo album II | The Deutsches Museum/Munich, Audi Museum/Ingolstadt
► Photo album III | Prague/Czech Republic, Salzburg/Austria, Linz/Austria, Nuremberg/Germany

Kennedy-Platz | Augsburg

I've been looking forward to attending the Leonardo da Vinci programme for a long time. Last February, I participated in many interviews and exams with a media group in Ankara to ensure the placement is suitable. After the meeting went well, they accepted me for the programme. I am pleased that I attended.

Prague | Czech Republic

Goethe is the name that absolutely should be mentioned to German culture. With his universality, he said that 'The world is so empty if one thinks only of mountains, rivers and cities; but to know someone here and there who thinks and feels with us, and though distant, is close to us in spirit - this makes the earth for us an inhabited garden.'

Salzburg | Austria

I know this is one of those experiences I'll remember forever.
And I hope that I’ll have another chance to revisit city of Augsburg.

Auf wiedersehen.
Cem

Follow my videos on YouTube, and I also tweet at @cembilen

Q & A II

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 12:55:00 +0000

Istanbul | Turkey

As you know, the EU has designated 2011 as the "European Year of Volunteering". In this context, I would like to share new interview with you. This article deals with Claire Florence Steiner’s EVS experience in Istanbul. Within this interview, I’d just like to emphasize how important it is for young people to be volunteer.

1) Could you please introduce yourself and give us some information about your life?

My name is Claire Florence Steiner and I am 20 years old. My mother is from Sydney, Australia and my father is from Wels, Austria.

I have had a very different and interesting life so I will try to put it all in a nutshell and be brief as possible.

I was born in Bangkok, Thailand and moved to Pakistan with my family when I was 4. I spent most of my childhood there, our family ended up living there for 13 years in different cities such as Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore which is on the Indian boarder. My parents ran a deaf school for young people who wanted an education. We taught them International sing language, computer programming as well as how to read and write in English. It was set up in such a way that we were able to get them jobs once their training was over so they would be able to support their families as a lot of them were from poor families. I helped out with running the center while doing my High School. I was also a member of a dance team with a few of my sisters which performed at functions such as local weddings, government school events, private parties, or company events. We learned the local dances as well as Bollywood style.

When I was 15 we moved to Adana, Turkey. I lived there for 4 years as a volunteer for ‘Family Education Association’ assisting in the “Anything for a Smile” Hospital project and the training of Turkish student volunteers who would work with us part time. I also worked as a volunteer for “Coloring the World” Art Project to beautify the environment of children suffering from long-term illnesses. Another project I did was organizing and participating in shows and animation programs such as face painting and balloon sculpturing for underprivileged children. While doing this as well as finishing my studies, I took on other hobbies such as learning oriental dancing, culinary arts, guitar and singing, as well as traveling to other cities when I had the opportunity.

Claire Florence Steiner

In early 2010 I had the opportunity to work for 2 months in India with slum children. Around the same time, I was introduced to EVS via a friend who was working in Istanbul. I had visited Istanbul many times over my stay in Turkey and fell in love with the city. I applied and was accepted right away. I moved to Istanbul on the 15th of June, 2010 which was my starting period date. Since being here, I came to love the city and its people even more! My hosting organization here in Istanbul, ‘Family Education Association’, is the sister center of Adana so I was quite familiar with the projects. My Volunteer's tasks were: Secretarial and administrative work/communications, painting colorful wall murals in hospital wards (Coloring Their World), organizing children’s animations and working at a home for the elderly.

2) When were you happiest in EVS?

I think my happiest times working in EVS was my project, Coloring Their World. It was wonderful to work with my team as well as we had really good times together and learned the importance of team-working as well as how to effectively communicate ideas in a group situation while being willing to listen to criticism and other points of view. Also seeing the results of our project, the appreciation of the children and the hospital staff! It was really beautiful to see how such a small thing meant so much to the children such as having them help with panting a small part of the wall or just communicating with them and being able to help them get their mind off their illness or the depressing situation.

Of course, I loved the On- Arrival training as well as the Mid-term training. I had good times and built lasting friendships through these trainings.

Claire Florence Steiner

3) What is the most important lesson EVS experience has taught you?

I can’t really name one specific so I will just put down what I feel I have really gained from experiencing EVS: Personal development. Flexibility, adaptability... During my time in Turkey doing EVS, I have learnt to adapt and be flexible when things didn't turn out as she would have expected or planned, and this has caused me to be more flexible and able to make the best of my situation. I have developed invaluable life skills, learned how to be open to others ideas and thoughts, and learnt to express myself in a better way. Communication skills and teamwork was also a major for me, how to effectively make a difference in the community, creating a project, resource mobilization, relating to children and people with disabilities, leadership skills.

4) What do you think about EVS programmes and non-formal learning opportunities for young people?

I have found the work to be fulfilling and enjoyable. Meeting and understanding people from other cultures are something I truly love, and since I have been doing this type of work for a long time, I have found myself enjoying the work to the full. Two words that describe EVS in my opinion are interesting and challenging! A great way for young people to gain an amazing experience.

Special thanks to Florence...

Auf Wiedersehen,
Cem

Q & A

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 01:40:00 +0000

'Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take,
but by the moments that take our breath away.' George Carlin

As you know, recently I finished process of my EVS. And I came back to home, Istanbul. I loved almost everything about my time spent in Slovenia. I believe that we all created a world together, with my friends. After this experience, I understood that friendships are the most important cornerstones of our life. Many thanks to my friends for supporting my dream.

Kamnik | Slovenia

Within this article, I would like to share my last interview with Marta Kwiatkowska. I met her via Facebook after I published ‘EVS Volunteer Speaks’ video series. I thought that I could create an interview in an article about her EVS experience:

Could you please introduce yourself and give us some information about your life?

My name is Marta and I'm from Poland. Now, I work as an EVS volunteer in Greece.I live on a small island called ‘Lefkada’ and I work in the Elderly Care Centre. The aim of my project is to be a company for old people, spent time with them and help in daily activities. I and the other volunteers work with try to bring some animation to the life of residents. We organise events, make artistic workshops, play music, decorate the house, and invite guests. We try different ideas and techniques to make the daily life of the residents more colourful and happy.

Marta Kwiatkowska

When were you happiest time in EVS?

There were already a lot of moments during my EVS when I felt really happy. For me personally especially important and memorable are moments in the Elderly Centre. My project is very emotional. There are difficult moments but there are also a lot of beautiful and happy situations. I remember the moment when I first felt that the residents know me, when I gained their trust and friendship. It was very nice and moving. When I see that they wait for me, like my company it makes me also very happy. But EVS it’s not only the project itself of course. I have an opportunity to live with other volunteers from different countries. Our life together is also full of beautiful moments I will never forget.

What is the most important lesson EVS experience has taught you?

EVS is surprising me all the time. I think all the time here I am learning how to be more open and tolerant. The experience of EVS is really exceptional. There are a lot of fun and beautiful moments but sometimes I also have to face some challenges and deal with difficulties. But I guess this is how I can learn developed and become better person. I think the biggest treasures we are getting from EVS are the changes inside of us. We are getting new skills gaining knowledge in many fields we are developing in many different ways. Than after we come back from EVS we can use all of this in our home countries, make projects of our own, develop the youth field. I also think that one of the greatest things about EVS is all the people we can meet. Both the local people with whom we work and the volunteers from all over Europe with whom we live, work, have fun and share this experience. I am sure these are the relations which will last for long time.

What do you think about EVS programmes and non-formal learning opportunities for young people?

I think EVS is such a great program and great opportunity for young people but it is still not well known across Europe. I think one of the most important things is to advertise EVS in the first place. Then more people can get to know about it and at the same time more organizations and institutions can be involved too.
Because, EVS is not only an opportunity for volunteers but also for the local communities that host them.

Special thanks to Marta Kwiatkowska.

Nähdään pian.
Cem

' A Farewell to Slovenia'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 01:05:00 +0000

Venice | Italy

In here, I've got a world of chances. One of the most important chances is to meet new friends. But, I guess it's time to say goodbye. Goodbye my friends, thanks for your helping hand, standing by me.

Special thanks to those who made my dream possible...

In a world far away, we may meet again...

Hoşçakalın

‘Fill in the blanks’

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:15:00 +0000

Public Library | Ljubljana

"Everybody knows that the dice are loaded

Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed..."

Leonard Cohen

Last days, I published last episode of ‘EVS Volunteer Speaks’ video series. Within this entrepreneur project, I have witnessed their experience with my camera. I aimed to reflection EVS opportunities to potential young people who especially fewer opportunities and from non-eu countries.

In the project, one of the most important consequences is that I met a lot of friends in here. By the way, many thanks to my friends who have contributed in many different ways to helping make this all a reality.

Within ‘EVS Volunteer Speaks’, I added intercultural dimension on my main project and tried out to change something in a routine project. And after I published video series, I received a lot of comments; I felt that I am contributing to the construction of new programs in here.

And in my opinion, I carried out my tasks in main project. I published a lot of videos on koTV. Within koTV, I gave an opportunity to integrate into the local community. I discovered and became aware of different social and cultural realities. koTV provided important opportunities for me to acquire skills and competences on media field.

When I back and think about my own works, I gained more self-confidence, I developed self-awareness again after economic crisis.

On this basis, I have clear view about life. In the future, I can start with nothing again …
And out of nothing and out of no way… The way will be made by me again.
I know that I can fill in the blanks in life, again.

This idea is literally formulating my thoughts.

Hälsningar.

'Follow Your Bliss'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 18:31:00 +0000

Ljubljana | Slovenia

In my last 16 days, I’m still in the process of creating new videos with Engin. Yesterday, we recorded two new interviews with Julia who is from Kiev, Ukraine. If you watch our video series about EVS, you know our aim is always to provide visibility of their experience, and also multilingualism. On this basis, last videos will be in English and Ukrainian.

We focused upon this journey, again. It’s still a magnificent journey.

"3 Ideas After Meeting"

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 01:43:00 +0000

Kamnik | Slovenia

"Words are never 'only words'; they matter because they define the contours of what we can do."

Slavoj Žižek

The following letter includes only base information about my ideas of EVS project. I prepared it to MC Kotlovnica. It was only suggestion for preliminary evaluation of projects.

Dear Friends;

First of all, I would like to say that thank you for this meeting. I learnt a lot of information about application process of projects. It was useful to developing new ideas for me. It was first time in my life how to exchanging of opinions about Europass CVs and project application process with different viewpoints.

As you know, after I prepared to presentation videos about EVS, I always receive messages about it from potential volunteers. It was my aim. It was an important added value to my project. From now on; I guess that I have to write some information about it on my webpage.

Coming to the end of my journey, I would like to share some ideas with you about new projects in Kamnik.

In my opinion, EVS is personal gain about self-confidence, and developing self-awareness. And also, it is an important tool for changing something in personal future. On this basis, I’m grateful to Bostjan for invited me. And in the future, I am confident that EVS project of Kotlovnica will be more successful.

Before this meeting, I got some good news from Bostjan. First of good news, Bojan will be mentor for new EVS volunteers. In my opinion, Bojan will create a new way for raising the vision of youth center on project. Second of good news, they received a lot of applications from Turkey.

Turkey’s median age is just 28 compared to 42 in the European Union. So, from my window in Istanbul, I see a developing country with new hopes, new viewpoints on future. There is a strong link between the Asian and European cultures of the world. I have faith in it.

Within EVS projects, Kamnik can be an important place where two (or more) perspectives meet each other and find a common point.

My suggestions for new project can be;

1st Title of project: ‘Presentation of Occupations’

As you know, I recorded a lot of presentation video about EVS. Especially, I recorded them in multi-language, for non-European union countries; and also for inclusion of young people with fewer opportunities in EVS projects… The idea is from innovation of this project.

In Kamnik, one strong topic is local internet television. And you have creative team and enough video equipment. So, you can write a project about visibility of occupations. It can provide important opportunities for children, and young people in Kamnik. And it’s also for participants of EVS projects. Within this project, children and young people will discover and become aware of different occupations. And for the volunteers will give big opportunity; to meet some people who have sufficient knowledge about occupations and also to give gain in interactive media fields. You can connect to local schools and teachers in Kamnik.

2nd Title of project: ‘Tourism Channel’

Thinking globally, acting locally…

As you know, it was my idea for my project. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize this project. Owing to don’t have enough time. Kamnik has a potential tourism. You have beautiful nature, sports lifestyle, and magnificent big mountains. You can create a webpage with internet social networks (Facebook, twitter, YouTube etc…) I am confident that Primoz can create a perfect webpage; Jan Z. and koTV team can teach their experience in video fields to new EVS volunteers. And also, the project can realize in multi-language with volunteers’ mother tongues. If their project is long-term, the project can contain all around Slovenia. Within the project, EVS volunteers express a country with different viewpoints. And Slovenia will get to value diversity. From my own personal experience of working with Jan Z. about Kamnik tourism video, I can tell you that I recognized a power of between media and tourism. I’m indebted him for this.

3rd Title of project: ‘Teach Slovene to the World’

Cultural diversity in the world…

Before my arrival time, I didn’t find enough information about your language and also your culture on internet. So, I ordered a language book about Slovene from a bookstore in Taxim square. But I didn’t buy this book by reason of transport is expensive. The idea is from this situation.

In the project, volunteers will promote to cooperation with koTV, Kamnik photo club, and also local schools. For the project, you may need a webpage, visual materials (videos from koTV, photos from Kamnik photo club). With particular attention, volunteers will create a link between Slovenian children and the far end of the world. For Slovenian children, volunteers will create a pen-pal project with other friends in
the world. On the webpage, volunteers can show videos, photos, and letters about Slovene, and Slovenian cultures. The project will encourage EVS volunteers to learn your culture, to communicate in foreign language, to work in different environments.

As I said, these are my ideas to developing EVS in Kamnik.

This year, I thought that we laid a good foundation together in Kamnik. I would like to say that we’ve only just begun.

‘What would you do if you know you could not fail?’ asked by Robert Schuller.

Best Wishes,
Cem Bilen

Click to read document on Google Docs.

'the EVS Daily and a Promotion Video'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 20:26:00 +0000

Today, I would like to share some information about new e-newspaper and a promotion video.

The idea of e-newspaper enhances the quality of the projects and visibility of the projects. Understanding recognition of the projects is related to visibility. So, it’s important. The idea of ‘the EVS Daily’ is from another volunteer in Maastricht, the Netherlands. Furthermore, Aylin’s newspaper headline mention about ‘EVS Volunteer Speaks’ video series:

'Two young people from Turkey, as volunteers in Slovenia have created a web page with a special message. Their aim is the same as Aylin’s, a volunteer in Netherlands, in the city of Maastricht. They want to make their voice heard by young people all around Europe. Some call them activists. They call themselves “idealists”. They say, “We had an idea, and we started -like building a house. Our dream is to spread the enthusiasm for EVS among young people, as much as possible. This mission is possible. We can make it.'

It’s literally formulating our aims, special thanks to Aylin…

Other news is about promotion video. They put all creation and creativitywith different snapshots and produced wonders in this video. A perfect promotion is from Kamnik:

‘Some Signs for New Life’

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:14:00 +0000

Kamnik | Slovenia

‘What would you do if you know you could not fail?’

Robert Schuller

Coming to end of my journey, I’m preparing my youthpass certificate and some reports about my experience. This takes a long time… And I’m recording news in different fields and montaging videos in koTV studio…

First, I would like to share my work schedule of last month:

9th October, 12 pm: Basketball marathon
13th October, 7.30 pm: Indian culture event in public library of Kamnik
15th October, 7pm: Schoolmate’s event in galleria Veronica
16th October 9 pm Opening concert of Kotlovnica youth center
18th October 3-7 pm: Interactive media workshop in koTV studio with Italian friends

19th October, 7pm: Presentation event for big mountain in public library of Kamnik
21th October, 7am-1pm: Red Cross blood donation in cultural center Kamnik
21th October, 7pm: Art exhibition in galleria Majolka
23th October, 9pm: Radio student club event in Kotlovnica youth centre
29th October, 7.30pm: Stand up show in cultural center Kamnik

So, this is my last month in here, in MC Kotlovnica and also in koTV…

They offer leisure time activities for young people’s interest: different dance activities, music clubs, photo clubs and campaigning activities. There is a strong link between young people’s creativities and their personal developments in Kamnik.

In there, one strong topic is local internet television. As you know, it names koTV. The internet television provides greater support for young people in multi-media fields. Moreover, internet television encourages young people to get involved in projects that have a positive impact for local community in general.
And for me, media is my new occupation and promotes mobility to beyond the borders. I’m feeling lucky; because of my other occupation is tourism. In my opinion, these two occupations are similar for going beyond borders.

koTV

This year, one of dreams in my life became reality.
This experience inspired me with hope for changing something in my life. When we realize a dream, we’re in the position build bigger and better dreams.

kamfest

They are some signs for my new life… I’m sure…
Good-bye until next time.

PS. Next time, I will express some information about all EVS process in writing. After presentation videos of EVS, I always receive messages about it from potential volunteers. It was my objective. It is an important added value to my EVS. From now on; I guess that I have to write it…

"EVS placements in Kamnik"

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 16:49:00 +0000

Udinese | Italy

My hosting organization is looking for partners for EVS projects and wishes to apply on November deadline.

They would like to host two or three volunteers from 10. 2. 2011 on. Volunteers will be working in youth center and a house of culture in town Kamnik, Slovenia. Volunteers will get a basic knowledge on organizing events, logistic and preparation work, working with professional video and photo equipment as well as basic knowledge of media education.

They wish to host volunteers for 8 months. For more information, please contact EVS Mentor: bojan(at)kotlovnica.si.

For Information about EVS: http://goo.gl/d4NA

For preparing a CV: http://goo.gl/3SyM

'The End of My EVS is Near'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 14:38:00 +0000

Time is in the middle of the night, and I couldn’t sleep with my thoughts. I would like to remark on my thoughts on my blog…I need to leave from here soon. In my life, the end of an experience is near.

Graz | Austria

“I am I plus my circumstances.”

Jose Ortega y Gasset

In last days, I felt really bad because I’m afraid of my life after EVS. But I felt it time after time; when I was graduated from university; I couldn’t find job long time. Time was economic crisis. My life had collapsed around me; I've worked myself into exhaustion. And I knew that I hadn’t to behind the times. And I knew that I’m the creator of your own future. But all of this happened because of knowing how to develop my personality.

And everybody all guides themselves by exactly the same laws. I know that I’m not only one.

The simplest way for me to look at EVS, it’s about personal developing.

We made good time between something and everything. All we wanted to do was to share this opportunity with potential EVS volunteers, and especially young unemployment people in Europe. From this point of view, we tried to make up for lost time in our EVS life. We record people alive today who know EVS. Our aim was that exchanging of opinions, and introducing of EVS, inspiring about it. First of all, no one even understands what our aim is. Even though I try hard, I couldn't change it. And some of them often, at times when they begin to understand our aim, they didn’t change stereotypes of thought that they have.

And we were impression that it wasn’t enough for us. So, we wrote our own project for EU. Please, think of us as we’re from non-EU country. It was our dream. And it’s still dream. Last days, some situations dashed our hopes. Here's the problem: we absolutely don’t know our way to dream. But I know that one day, someone will start correspond with us about our ideas.

Now, I need a good sleep for start out having a good day…

Hoşçakalın.

'The Story of These Videos'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 21:27:00 +0000

Zagreb | Crotia

Today, I would like to share a report from Engin. He wrote this document for his organisation. In my opinion, there are a few notable topics, so this is good example for potential EVS volunteers. How did we live among EVS ?

THE EVS TOWN PROMOTIONS OF SLOVENIA

The Story of These Videos (AIM)

On 8 of August when i was in Kamnik, me and the other Turkish EVS volunteer in Kamnik (Cem) decided to record videos about EVS and then we went to Stari Grad of Kamnik for taking EVS videos via EVS volunteers and the first volunteer was me on this video:)

On that day we were not thinking to continue on these videos but after receiving great comments and also supports from Turkish National Agency and many young people who want to do EVS in Slovenia or abroad we thought that we have to continue on…
Unfortunately as you know EVS and some other Lifelong Learning Projects are not so well known by young people in Europen Union Countries…there are so many videos like reporters are asking what do you know about EVS or some other projects? Most of them (%95) say almost nothing so we also thought that by these video series many young people can understand that they can also join into these kind of international programmes…

STRUCTURE

This is the hardest part to tell cause we are making these videos from an improvisation view…but if i have to mention about the structurial part of the videos;
As you see we are not making videos only with EVS volunteers but also with EVS mentors/co-ordinators also directors…so i have to summarize it…
1. Firstly we find a suitable background music for every videos, many of them Cem’s personal recordings from concerts and events…
2. We start videos by some views from the city-town which the person who speaks and from this view the videos are also promotional videos about the city-town.
3.If i make the interview in English my questions style are almost the same…firstly i ask;
Can you introduce yourself to us? 2.one is;
How was your EVS experience or what is your EVS Project in Slovenia? And the last question is;
What do you think about EVS and what are your future plans?
If i make the interview in (volunteers or mentors/coordinators) languages (until now i made Slovenian-French-German and Serbian interviews) i also ask;
Can you tell us WHAT IS EVS in your language? Cause it is also important if we can reach to young people don’t know English well too cause in EVS programmes the potential volunteers don’t need to know any other language except their mother tongue…

SELF-EVALUATION
This part is really so so important for me cause as i mentioned many times before i didn’t apply to EVS for drinking more alcohol or something else it is all about self-evaluation and understanding the other cultures. I applied to EVS cause i was an ERASMUS student 3 years ago and have already understood that Lifelong Learning Projects-EU Projects are really so important for understanding the European Union Countries the way of looking to the life…i tasted this in Italy and now i am tasting this experience in Slovenia…
With these videos i developed my talking style with different people and developed my persuasion ability not only in English but also in Turkish maybe this is the most important value which i gained from these interview series…i also understood the main parts of how to montage/edit and learned how to make a professional promotion with these videos…and you know actually the most and the most important gaining is after learned my mum’s death…i was in a big big trouble and thought to even leave from Slovenia but these videos kept me in Slovenia cause i found a good reason to stay in Slovenia also in MCDD (of course i have been enjoying to do something for Newspaper Finaça but Finaça is not only belong to me and i can not understand most of the pages but these videos are seeming only belong to me and Cem (also MCDD also Cem’s organization MC Kotlovnica).

COINCIDENCES
About this part i can briefly say that it is so nice cause as Laura mentioned 2 days ago while we were recording the Preseren Square in Ljubljana for background view for the videos we met with South African people and made interview with them…They invited us for an international event about African night in a hotel in Ljubljana…as you see it is so interesting we just made an interview with them and then they invited us for an another interview…so coincidences are really important for these kind of projects…

Engin Yüksel Medin
EVS Volunteer

‘Last 56 days’

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:00:00 +0000

S.Konjice | Slovenia

If you ask me that where’ve you been hiding yourself? We still have made some promotion video about EVS. Yesterday, Engin and I recorded new interviews in Ljubljana. We have been keeping busy… Same as always.

Yesterday’s recording, I think it’s our great work. We recorded 5 new interviews in multi-languages. It is in English, German and Serbian Languages. It’s been nice talking with EVS volunteer and also foreign people (from South Africa, Italia, and India) in Ljubljana. In my opinion, we have to make plans to get together again.

Vive la difference!

I will finish editing these materials soon. After this, we’ll expect to see some results soon.

‘Working’ is good for be out of our troubles. But other way, we have to think after our EVS life. For me, there aren’t enough time days in the EVS. I have only 56 days in here. And we have too many new ideas… Engin and I two have a lot in common. I hope that we will work together in the future. So, we have written new project in abroad. We are looking for partners and also sponsor for our ideas.

Sometimes, we didn’t find supports in here. As you know, there’s none so blind as those who will not see.
But we got a good rhythm with Engin, so we have to continue to make new interviews in here. It ain’t over till it’s over. We should be on our way again.

‘All for one and one for all.’

Au revoir.

PS. By the way, special thanks to persons who wrote comments. They stand by us with their comments. We always really need to get their support.

PS. 2 if there’s anything you need about EVS, please don’t hesitate to ask with my formspring.

'Morning's coffee in Ljubljana'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:31:00 +0000

Ljubljana | Slovenia

We thought that we won’t give up recording new things. Because of comments of our working was so good for our motivation. It's worth our while to make new ideas. And today we went to Lasko-is a name of famous bear of here- for recording new interview with other EVS volunteer in there. He is from Spain, and he has different style.

Engin prepared the questions and I prepared equipment for making interview with him. First of all, for going to Lasko, we had to go to Ljubljana-is capital of Slovenia-

Unfortunately, transport system in here is so bad. If you want to go somewhere in Slovenia, you have to change minimum two-three destinations. So we waked up early… By the way, for your information: all EVS volunteers have a discount card from European Commission. And you can use this card in Europe. But in here, nobody understands what under ‘26 card’ is. So it sometimes can be hard for us to explain for what this card. You can use this card only in Brezice station every time.

And we spent our time in Ljubljana to eat something and walking near of the river…
When we were walking, I saw a guy who was a street singer. I told Engin that it would be perfect background music for new interview. But unfortunately we didn’t get permission from the guy for recording his performance. He doesn’t like recording it. Ok, no problem it was just idea.Then we went to café in center of Ljubljana for drink coffee this morning's coffee…

When we were going to Lasko by train, we were listening to an album. In my opinion, it is best album of last year. (Sertab Erener & Demir Demirkan – ‘Painted On Water’) I suggest this perfect album.

'Comments About Our Videos'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 22:48:00 +0000

Brezice | Slovenia

Some comments about our videos:

‘Special thanks to Cem and Engin whom they shared us perfect video about Action 2, European Voluntary Service… We’re sure that you will like it… Congratulations!’

Turkish National Agency

"Your use of video, Facebook and blog is an excellent example of how new media can be used to reach a high number of people in our target group - young people. I was very impressed by the number of people following your Facebook-page, and I think this shows both that people are interested in your project and that there is a great interest in EVS in general. I am, of course, now also following your Facebook page myself and I look forward to see new videos and material there.

Your project very well illustrates that the beneficiaries and users of Youth in Action are the best promoters the programme can have. Thank you for you work and I hope you will continue to spread information and motivate more young people to become involved in volunteering in general and EVS in particular."

Frode Dal Fjeldavli, Programme Manager, European Commission -
Directorate General for Education and Culture

"We find such testimonials are very useful not only to show how the Youth in Action programme work; they are one of the best promotional material."

Maria Podlasek-Ziegler, European Commission - Directorate General for Education and Culture

'Excellent, please keep up the good work! '

Emily Barker, British Council

"We would like to see your work and we really think that we can profit from your movie.
it is always nice to see different attitudes toward volunteering."

Sanja Živoder, EVS offficer in Croatian NA

"We do like your video items on EVS. I will also send them to my colleagues of the Dutch National Agency of Youth in Action. If they would like to use some of your videos..."

Mark Snijder, Eurodesk Netherlands

'Thank you for your EVS videos. They are really good pieces of work and we’ll be happy to include them in our promotion and information activities for EVS in the future.
I wish you all the best in your future work and looking forward to see your future videos.'

Natasa Zebovec
Slovenian National agency of Youth in Action Programme
(These videos on SNA webpage )

" "We liked your videos a lot and would like to upload them on our webpages..."

Terje Henk, Estonian National Agency

‘We would also like to have more visuals like photo's and short films, so youngsters get a clearer idea of what EVS is. We would like to put some of your 'EVS volunteer speaks' films on our website...’

Farhana Faroque , Communications Netherlands Youth Institute

‘Thank you, Engin and Cem... You’ve made almost professional video. I believe we should use it as promotional gift for our guests... Now, I'm curious how the next will looks. I'm sure it will be also nice.’

Miran Gorinšek , The Major of Slovenske Konjice

Kamnik | Slovenia

‘Very true words, again... This seems to be one organization that understood what the idea of EVS is about... and that is guiding its volunteers well.’

Sabine Ehrig , Ex-EVS Volunteer from Germany

‘Looks interesting... we certainly would like to know more about EVS. Do help us get more insights on it! Cheers’

India Future of Change

‘I am very happy about it. Video is very strong media and you know now how to handle it. I think they will call you for help (TNA) when you will be back in Turkey...not only your organization but the whole country. There were a lot of volunteers in Slovenia, but nobody has so strong video material.’

Bostjan Kosir – The Director of MC Kotlovnica

'I indeed thank Cem for your efforts and nice shots. You succeed all those things with Engin that many organizations could not. You tried to convince youth doing EVS and you did it! As you know, EVS is so important and utility programme for Turkish young people to share our culture with European countries. We’re using the short movies for European Voluntary Service’s dissemination by your cooperation. I wish your good luck in future projects. Keep in touch!'

Sertaç Şipka

Director of BurSanat Training and Youth Association

‘Well guys...Congrats Cem, congrats Pinar, congrats Tjaša, and my biggest congrats Engin ;) You all made a very good work, you've embodied your ideas into something really interesting. You've managed to compose together lirycal mood and sho...w the beauty, historical facts and curious cases, personal attitude and objective sides of the place, anecdotes and serious important events...All in its own place...,Bravo :) Good start!! Though I would do something with sound editing as music, pretty nice by the way, is more loud then the person speaking at the same moment...’

Olga Motrevich, Photographer

‘To summarize i think it's just fantastic what you've done...the videos look very professional and i really think we should use them like as a promotional material...they are really great so "Kapo dol" ....I’m speechless really...you and your team did a great job...’

Nina Lukaveçki – Co-Worker in MCDD

‘Your videos are like a good wine...Nonstop comparing everything with wine…French automatism.. You are beautiful. My Turkish EVS friends… Ok I didn't understand too but it was nice experience to play the journalist with Engin in your language. I cheer for our friendship, for the good human experience and example we give for the future generation of EVS, for all the people around the world ...Merci. ‘(About ‘EVS Volunteer Speaks 2’ in Turkish)

Angélique Marisein, EVS Volunteer from France

‘Special thanks to Cem and Engin and the rest of the EVS crew that make these videos happen…’

Karmen Kukovič, Co-worker in MCDD

"Open Letter 3"

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 22:45:00 +0000

Celje | Slovenia

Dear Readers,

First of all we would like to introduce ourselves to you; our names are Engin Yuksel Medin and Cem Bilen, we are 2 EVS volunteers from Turkey in Slovenia.We have already finished our almost 6 months and then last month (august) we realised one thing about EVS…

Unfortunately when we want to watch some virtual materials about EVS and the other Youth in Action programmes, we canˇt find enough videos which contain whole youth programmes.

For this reason we have been starting to make some EVS videos for last month.

Firstly we made a video which tries to show ˇ why should you be a volunteerˇ (youth programmes) after that we made another video like this in our mother tongue.

And then after receiving really good comments we have started to make videos about EVS volunteers life integrated to town and cities in Slovenia.

Kranj | Slovenia

We actually are still making videos about EVS volunteer(s), mentor(s),co-ordinator(s) and etc…

We also would like to share our videos (until now) with you. It would be our pleasure if you return us…

Best regards

Cem Bilen & Engin Yuksel Medin

Please check these videos out;

What sort of image does the name EVS conjure up in your mind?

www.youtube.com/cmbilen

"No Comment"

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 16:50:00 +0000

Ljubljana | Slovenia

I lost EPP's video contest:

1st prize: Future possible, Leona Kunayovaj, Czech

(http://www.eppcompetition.eu/index.php?ext_vid=MPxM2cVQumI)

Loser: A Story of Poverty, Cem Bilen, Turkey

(http://www.eppcompetition.eu/index.php?ext_vid=-fdzDh3ODhc)

‘Open Letter -2’

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 18:06:00 +0000

Dear Engin;

In Turkish, your name means: vastness. Your character also is vastness, like open sea. Last week, after obligatory travel, I saw you in Kamnik, my friend. You were searching for a solution, wandering back and forth like a man who wished to rid himself of a painful trouble. I can see what you’re saying, because the mothers are divine in life… And I understood that she is ill.

Paris | France

I’m sure that you’ve seen better days in your life. Now, you have to go back into our usual roles in here. It’s like it never happened. You will talk as about the trivial things of everyday life with co-workers in your organization. And you will talk Turkey's never ending political troubles with me in here. Same as always...

But once we shut ourselves in small country, we are not unsuccessful as we thought. We made two presentation videos last week.

Konya | Turkey

It’s the best we can do under the circumstances. And feedbacks about videos are perfect. Have you heard the latest? Yesterday, I got a message from Centre for EU Education &Youth Programmes. (Turkish National Agency) That’s just what we need it. I expect to see some results soon. In the long run, everything will be OK.

By the way, I saw this article about Slovenia in Turkish Newspaper. Thanks, Engin. I feel proud of you. But, in my opinion, you’re carrying the world on your shoulders in Slovenske Konjice.

Did you get ‘A’ for your effort? Always same story: ‘indifference’, like my organization. There’s nothing we can do about it. But this news was important.

Don’t forget that it’s always darkest before dawn.

Hoşçakal,

‘Open Letter’

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 17:23:00 +0000

I’m really feeling alone in here. The streets are empty. I've never seen anything like this. So, I always behave according to feelings of loneliness. It means that sometimes lose my mind and hope. I consider at great length about this feeling. I decided to write open letter to my friends in here on my blog. I’m really in need of explaining my life in here.

Bohinj | Slovenia

First of all, you know that I’m not only EVS volunteer. However, I’m observer about your culture and life in here. At first, you always complain about your life. For what complains? ‘Little things’… Please, don’t misunderstand me. Your life is worthy of esteem. I really respect it. But I read an article about Pakistan yesterday. Nowadays, People in there are homeless, hopeless… It’s dreadful. You have to give thanks to your life… Thanksgiving…

Must I paint you a picture?

1) Newsweek, the World’s Best Countries:
24. Slovenia
89. Pakistan
(http://www.newsweek.com/2010/08/15/interactive-infographic-of-the-worlds-best-countries.html)

2) ‘Complain’ meaning: to express grief, pain, or discontent.

The Second, about EVS in Slovenia… Let me be perfectly clearly. About our organization, however you try to do it, it still does not work. Because of it is developing organization. And they don’t have real experience about EVS. In future, I confident it will all work out. But nowadays… No.

Kamnik

Austra’s Good-Bye Note:

"Don’t lose your hope for the world. The world hasn’t lost hope for you Cem!’

For example, Austra and me (By the way she is other EVS volunteer in here and from Latvia), we didn’t have EVS coordinator for show interest in our projects. It was big problem. Now she’s going to her home… And me, I still try to change something lonely. But I saw similar problems in my EVS trainings in this country. In my opinion, SNA** has to arrange trainings for teams of hosting organizations. Because nobody knows what is EVS. Ok, maybe managers know it. What I would like to say is… it’s not enough. SNA isn’t reaching your potential.

Let’s call it a day.

Adios.

**SNA: Slovenian National Agency
-----------
Click on the yellow button at The Hunger Site and give a cup of food to the hungry at no cost to you.
www.thehungersite.com

'Challenges 3'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 12:21:00 +0000

If somebody asked me that Cem, if you could be anywhere, where would you live? Definitely, I’d live somewhere in no routine life. I’m not used to it in my life. I could think a movie for answering this question … This movie is the Groundhog Day.

Zagreb | Croatia

According to movie, Mr. Connors-Bill Murray- was stuck in one town and every day was exactly the same and nothing he did mattered. It's like yesterday never happened.

This movie sums it up for me. I'm reliving the same day over and over. Sometimes, I ask to myself that didn't we do this yesterday? Sometimes, every day is like each other in here.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream, Discover.” Mark Twain

Definitely, I’m grateful to have been here. ‘You make choices and you live with them.’ But some guys would look at glass and say glass is half empty. Other guys would say glass is half full. And I can say that it’s both of them…

Au revoir.
Cem Bilen

Some my videos on koTV:

Maraton Alpe Scott (Background music: Tarkan "Start the Fire")

Kamsport 2010 Concert

Slovenian Symphony Orchestra

‘Curves and lines’

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:52:00 +0000

These curves and lines visualize the emotional process a volunteer might be passing through during and after the service period:

According to the model, in the beginning person is likely to feel some kind of initial excitement. EVS Volunteer n is fascinated with everything in the new culture, new country.

However, a few weeks after arrival the phase of ‘Culture shock’… Note the lack of knowledge of the language the host country may amplify these feeling…
Possible symptoms of culture shock:

Physical: Lack of hunger, sleeplessness, tiredness, minor aches etc…

Psychological: Homesickness, anger, frustration, fear of being cheated, resentment towards local, impatience, defensive or aggressive behavior etc…

However, after a certain period of time, EVS Volunteers might start to miss their friends and family, feeling that ‘life out there is happening without me’

Approaching the end of EVS (departure time), some people might feel afraid of what comes after their return home, others might be sad to leave.

To return home after the service can be both pleasant and challenging. Especially after a longer and intensive EVS, ex-volunteers might face some problems in readapting to their original environment and culture.
By the way, I guess that I’m in the phase of ‘acceptance and integration’

Tomorrow is another day.
Arrivederci.

'The Framework of koTV’'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:49:00 +0000

Bohinj | Slovenia

I should bear in mind that the reality of living a smaller town is completely different from living a big city. Before I came here, I didn’t think it too much. I didn’t foresee it.

In my opinion, completion of my project successfully will come depends on how many videos and movies I can make. But I’m aware of we don’t have too much news in here for TV. Life in Kamnik is routine. So, nowadays we cannot record interesting news.

But our team’s creativity is carrying on in spite of the difficulties.

You can watch:
- Iran Street Theater on koTV, the Tragedy of Macbeth, Recording and editing: Jan Majnik
-Concert with Gongs on koTV, Recording and editing: Andrej Podbevsek

'Challenges 2'

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:44:00 +0000

First of all, this blog should be guide for potential volunteers who are thinking about participate in EVS. So this blog might write by me honestly.

Bohinj | Slovenia

I adapted myself to a different life, culture and also attitudes. EVS gave me a better understanding of a different life. At first, my adaptation process was very hard for me. Because of I was inexperienced about living abroad. You know that the fish is missing the water only when it’s out of the fishbowl. I felt like a fish out of water. But now it’s easy for me. EVS provide a significant chance to learning new things.

Other problem is population of EVS area. It’s is very low. Unfortunately, loneliness do still big problem in here.

“There are no problems in life, only challenges.”

Bostjan Kosir

And ‘prejudices against Turkey’ in abroad… I guess that the today’s Europe make same mistake. News reports aren’t true sources for giving information. Unfortunately, they know nothing about Turkey. Things are never as bad as they seem. If you want to find information properly about Turkey, you have to visit Turkey and also you can find information properly via Turkish authors’ books, Turkish directors’ movies. Different points of views always useful to acknowledge the facts. With fake TV news, we cannot promote universal dialogue each other, tolerance and also solidarity.

'To overcome lies in the heart, in the streets, in the books

from the lullabies of the mothers

to the news report that the speaker reads,

understanding, my love, what a great joy it is,

to understand what is gone and what is on the way.'

Nazım Hikmet Ran (Turkish Poet)

Hoşçakal.

‘Ideas I’d never thought of before’

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:31:00 +0000

Venice | Italy

One day, as I was walking through Slovenian cemetery; I realized that time and also life is worthy. It only happens a few times. I don’t know why but it occurred to me there. It was interesting. I thought that we don’t have enough time for procrastinating. We have only one life.

And I realized that I spent the last four months away from most of my habits. TV, newspapers, sings and also culture were in a different language, I didn’t understand it. There was nothing to say, there was nothing to buy, no international advertisements in anywhere. It could have seemed like boredom at first time. My thoughts didn’t like it was at rest free from the consuming frenzy.

After boredom, I felt so peaceful inside. It took me a while to understand why I felt so different. Because of no strange urge to be somewhere else. Because of no talk never-ending political troubles about how the world was falling to pieces. I had thinking ideas I’d never thought of before.
Then I woke up, and I was changing most of my habits. So relieved…
So I when I look at own my life, I have to admit that I’ve never been around a different thoughts. Now, I understood that EVS is about personal developing. We all see the world through our own tiny keyhole, right?
So I decided what I really wanted to was to find things that could be fixed and try to fix them.

Se Vidimo.

"Small Island in The Bosphorus: The Maiden’s Tower "

noreply@blogger.com (Cem Bilen) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 17:21:00 +0000

If you want to know Istanbul well you have to listen, for it has things to tell you. Evolving in the languages of the region over the centuries, stories, fairy tales and legends have come to anchor off our shores, as if to wait for other times.

What sort of image does the name Istanbul conjure up in your mind? You might say that everyone sees different images - different snapshots - depending on the time in which they live. This city, which has produced several languages, religions and civilizations in its 2700 years, naturally expects many different pictures to be drawn of it.

What’s more, there is no one, single Istanbul. In order to see the reality - even more, to feel it deep down inside - you have to take long walks in its old streets, in the neighborhoods and districts where people live and breathe who view the city with different eyes. But despite this inevitable reality, one image seems to stand out. It is a picture of the Historic Peninsula. It may even strike you as the city’s most potent symbol. History talks, and the Historic Peninsula talks too. Its Seven Hills, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet and Süleymaniye Mosques, Topkapı Palace, all with their lights that change color with the season and time of day. And perhaps, even now, that is where the real Istanbul exists. Not only in its monuments that have stood the test of time, but also in the history it harbors within it.

Small Island in The Bosphorus

To see the city better, you need to expand your angle of vision slightly, starting from here so you can see the Galata Tower. Then another, smaller tower, perched on a rock at the point where the Bosphorus meets the Sea of Marmara, will wink at you from the depths of history. You will have spotted it by now, the Maiden’s Tower. But if you want to get to know the city better, you have to listen to it as well, for it has things to tell you. Stories, fairy tales, legends have all evolved in the languages of this region over the centuries and come to anchor off our shores, as if to wait for other times.

Every Legend A Love Story

Like many old cities, Istanbul, too, loves to tell and preserve legends. Nor is there any questioning their truth or falsity. That’s what makes them legends, isn’t it? From Argus navigating the shores of the Bosphorus with the Golden Fleece in tow and the mysteries concealed in the Hagia Sophia to the city’s as yet unplumbed subterranean passages and the treasures lurking at the bottom of the Golden Horn, myriad stories have emerged from the pens of writers with lively imaginations.

The stories told by the Maiden’s Tower are painfully sad, they touch a person’s heart, for all involve a tragic love story. To what extent the stories told actually took place is unknown. No matter. Each one is real, and sufficiently profound and meaningful as to be worth believing. If the languages of this region came together in impossible love stories, it seems they might provide some important clues to the city’s identity.

One legend, which has also found its way into mythology, survives only in the traces of a struggle waged in the name of love. A priestess in the Temple of Aphrodite, Hero is forbidden to fall in love. But she meets young Leander at a dinner, and at that moment begins to challenge fate. It is a moment when to challenge becomes her destiny. Nights of passion and love follow. To reach Hero, Leander plunges into the cold nocturnal waters and swims to the tower, where Hero has lit a fire to illumine the sea. They continue to meet illicitly for several nights, the fire illuminating not only their love but the path on which they have embarked for its sake. But one night while Leander is swimming to Hero a wind comes up and extinguishes the flame. The sea is suddenly engulfed in darkness. Unable to reach the tower where his sweetheart awaits him, Leander loses his way, dragged into the dark by the current. His body is found the next morning at daybreak. When she sees it, Hero is unable to bear the pain and throws herself into the water, ending her life. Is it Aphrodite’s curse? Love and death have been written now on the waters of this city.

Such is one of the legends. There is another story, another legend, that found its way into Turkish Literature and was traditionally told in the city’s coffeehouses. According to this legend, a fortune teller one day tells the sultan that his daughter is going to die of a snake bite. Upon which, the potentate has a tower erected in the middle of the Bosphorus and locks his daughter up inside it in the belief that no snake can cross the water alive. But fate is ineluctable, and one day a snake concealed in a basket of grapes sent to the tower from the mainland fulfills the fortune teller’s prediction, and despite all efforts to save her the young girl dies.

We learn about a third legend from the 17th century Ottoman traveler, Evliya Çelebi. In this story, the daughter of a local Byzantine ruler, the Tekfur of Scutari, has been incarcerated in a tower, possibly for her own protection. Along comes Battal Gazi, who, with the help of his seven henchmen, kidnaps the girl and makes off with his treasure. The expression, ‘The horse thief has passed through Üsküdar’, meaning “It’s too late now”, is said to have originated from this legend.

Bearing Witness to History

If we look at other events in history, we see that this tower of love and fate has served now as defense tower, now as customs house, now as monumental tomb. Sometimes the records corroborate the story that is told; at other times, the events that transpired have survived only by being passed from language to language. The tower is also said to have been heavily damaged, even leveled, by earthquakes a few times in its history, even to have burned to the ground, but always to have been rebuilt with great urgency. This is, after all, a history going back some five hundred years B.C.

Sunay Akın once declared it a ‘republic of poetry’. And what could be more appropriate for the island where this little tower rises, a tower that has undergone so many transformations, a tower that has come down to us steeped in so many stories and legends, that has always gazed at us from the sea, from perhaps the city’s most beautiful vantage point?

If you happen to be passing that way, have a look at this small island and try to remember some of the stories I’ve told here. Viewed from Salacak, the sunset is lovely behind the tower. When you see it, you will be feel more deeply the poetry of living in this city.

(SkyLife, March 2010)