We invite you to explore the journey of Enes Aşkın Yetiş, a 22-year-old underwater technologies student from Sinop University. His experiences as a volunteer highlight the profound impact of working alongside diverse individuals dedicated to environmental conservation. Enes's story underscores the importance of collaboration, personal growth, and the urgent need for environmental stewardship. Join us as we celebrate the transformative experiences of our volunteers and the positive contributions they make to our planet.
A Passion for the Sea
For Enes, joining the SEAL project was more than just a volunteer opportunity; it was a chance to combine his love for the sea with his professional skills as an industrial diver. “Working as part of a team with many people sounded very exciting to me,” he reflects. His eagerness to improve his English and contribute positively to nature was a driving force behind his decision to participate.
Enes engaged in various activities across multiple locations, including Karakum, Sinop Harbor, and Sarıkum. Enes’s journey began with a simple motivation: a love for the Sea and a desire to help it. Studying underwater technologies, he is no stranger to the marine world. “The idea of helping the environment inspired me to focus on doing the right thing,” he reflects. Witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of plastic pollution on marine life was a pivotal moment for him. “It’s heartbreaking to see creatures trapped in plastic; it fueled my determination to make a difference,” he adds.
Cross-Cultural Connections
The SEAL project brought together individuals from around the globe, fostering a rich tapestry of cultures and ideas. “People from all over the world, with different lives, cultures, and thoughts, have always excited me,” says Enes. He highlights how these interactions illustrate that the world doesn’t revolve solely around one’s surroundings. Through shared experiences—be it through an icebreaker game on the first day he built friendships that transcended language barriers. “Everything started with an icebreaker game, allowing us to learn each other's names in a fun way,” setting a tone of camaraderie that lasted throughout the month.
“Speaking English was essential for our communication,” he explains, noting how daily interactions improved his language skills. The constant group changes during activities facilitated communication, allowing everyone to express themselves and develop connections.
Enes cherished learning about different customs, traditions, and especially food, discovering new recipes and music along the way. “I particularly enjoyed learning different sauce recipes and discovering many songs that I liked.”
Witnessing the Impact of Pollution
Diving in the Black Sea, Enes encountered the harsh realities of marine pollution firsthand. He was shocked to see marine life struggling alongside plastic debris, with creatures trapped in bottles and other trash. “The feeling of wanting to help them was one of my biggest motivators,” he shares. “Imagine being a fish stuck in a bottle in a vast sea; it’s truly heartbreaking.”
His experiences emphasized the urgency of environmental action. “Even small pieces of trash can lead to significant issues,” he learned. Enes reflected on how our desire for comfort often leads to a world that’s increasingly difficult for other living beings. This heightened sensitivity to nature inspired him to be more proactive in his environmental responsibilities.
Lessons in Teamwork and Resilience
Participating in a team projects requires effective planning and adaptability. Enes highlights the importance of having backup plans and maintaining a solution-oriented mindset when faced with challenges. “One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to always have backup plans,” he explains. He realized that having negative thoughts in the face of problems is useless; being patient and solution-oriented always pays off in the end.
Through the project, Enes gained insights into the complexities of marine ecosystems, noting how the scarcity of fish and seagrass highlighted the environmental challenges facing the Black Sea. “Not seeing many fish and the flat seabed structure were the first things I noticed,” he shares, contrasting this with his previous dives in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, where visibility and biodiversity were much greater.
A Call for More Action
Enes strongly believes that projects like SEAL should be carried out more frequently. “Such initiatives open doors for people who want to help but don’t know how,” he emphasizes. The teamwork involved not only strengthens individual resolve but also amplifies collective impact. “The results may seem small to some, but I am sure they play a significant role for our planet.”
He underscores the importance of leaving a cleaner world for future generations: “It’s crucial to avoid jeopardizing the future of the world and humanity, as we live in the areas we have polluted.” He notes the cause-and-effect relationship between our actions and the health of the environment, advocating for greater awareness and responsibility.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
As Enes reflects on his month with the SEAL project, he feels a profound sense of gratitude and belonging. “The people I met have become like family to me,” he says, recalling how quickly time passed in the company of his fellow volunteers. “I already miss them so much and can't wait to see them again.” The memories created during this short period will stay with him forever, deepening his awareness of global environmental issues.
His recommendation is clear: participating in such projects enriches one’s social skills, cultural knowledge, and language abilities. “Even though we only had a month, it turned out to be a project I never wanted to end,” he concludes, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences and friendships formed through collective action.
Enes Aşkın Yetiş’s journey with the SEAL project exemplifies the powerful impact of environmental volunteering. By combining personal passion with collective action, individuals can contribute meaningfully to the preservation of the marine ecosystems.
As Enes advocates for more initiatives like SEAL, his story serves as a reminder of the difference each of us can make in fostering a healthier planet for future generations.
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