Participating in the 35th Economic Forum in Karpacz, Poland, ENYC General Secretary Gürkan Akcaer had an unexpected and heartwarming reunion with Ivan, a volunteer from North Macedonia whom he hosted in Ankara in 2008 through the European Voluntary Service (EVS) programme.

Ivan completed his EVS volunteering experience with System and Generation in Ankara—an ENYC member organisation. He described this period as a transformative chapter in his life: one of his first international experiences, offering him the opportunity to learn, grow and connect with fellow volunteers from across Europe.

Today, Ivan has built a career in communications in North Macedonia and works as a regional expert for WeBalkans, the EU’s largest communication programme for the Western Balkans.

This chance encounter is a meaningful reminder of the lasting impact that ENYC member organisations, international youth mobility and volunteering can have on young people’s personal development, well-being and professional journeys.

We wish Ivan continued success in his career and look forward to many more inspiring stories from the ENYC community.