Greetings!
My name is Hendrik, a 21-year-old from Münster, Germany. I’m excited to be part of the Rural Future project with the Smokinya Foundation, spending six months in Mrachenik—a quaint village of 60 residents, located an hour away from Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Mrachenik offers a serene escape into rural life. Nestled in the picturesque Plovdiv Province, it’s an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking tranquility.
Adjusting to village life has brought quite a bit of change. From chopping wood and making fires to refurbishing and cleaning abandoned spaces, every day is a new experience. I’m also learning Bulgarian and inviting locals over to celebrate 1 March, the day of the “Martenitsa”. While stepping out of my comfort zone is often challenging, the sense of reward and growth makes it all worthwhile.
Accommodation in Mrachenik is typically defined by traditional houses that showcase the village’s rustic charm. However, we’re fortunate to be staying in a modern house right in the village center, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
After finishing high-school, I completed a three-year apprenticeship in my hometown as an industrial management assistant.
Coming from an urban upbringing with little or no village life, getting to know the environment around me better will allow me to get a better self-understanding of myself. I’m truly excited to see where these next few months will lead me.
For those interested in exploring the region, Mrachenik serves as a peaceful retreat with opportunities to immerse oneself in Bulgarian village life and participate in enriching cultural programs. Smokinya Foundation allows for multiple international volunteer opportunities and perspective enriching summer camps.
This program is co-funded by European Solidarity Corps program of the European Union.
Финансирано от Европейския съюз. Изразените възгледи и мнения обаче принадлежат изцяло на техния(ите) автор(и) и не отразяват непременно възгледите и мненията на Европейския съюз или на Европейската изпълнителна агенция за образование и култура (EACEA). За тях не носи отговорност нито Европейският съюз, нито EACEA.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
