Arsine Baghumyan’s story is the third episode of E-volution Media Stories — a space dedicated to the personal experiences of young people, international volunteers and creators connected through solidarity, creativity and intercultural exchange.
Arsine comes from Vanadzor, a small city in Armenia. Before Bulgaria, her life was already filled with friends, time in nature, books, films and her work as a barista. Still, she felt that something was missing.
The opportunity appeared unexpectedly through an Instagram story announcing a long-term volunteering placement in Bulgaria. Her initial surprise quickly turned into a decision: “Okay, I’ll come.” One short message became the beginning of an experience that would completely change her life.
When Arsine arrived, she knew almost nothing about Bulgaria — not the language, the people or the culture. Veliko Tarnovo, however, soon attracted her with its colours, atmosphere and beauty. Gradually, an unfamiliar city became a place connected to some of the most important experiences of her life.
As a volunteer with E-volution Media, Arsine filmed, created digital content and gradually learned how to interview people. Approaching strangers was difficult at first, especially when people refused to appear on camera. Over time, however, she began to enjoy these encounters and the opportunity to hear the thoughts and ideas of local people.
One of her most memorable experiences happened during a day of street interviews in Veliko Tarnovo. After receiving several refusals, the volunteers noticed a serious-looking man in a suit and decided to approach him. Only then did they discover that they were speaking to the Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo, Daniel Panov. The unexpected encounter continued with an interview in his office and became a story Arsine says she will never forget.
The most important part of her volunteering journey, however, was the people. Strangers gradually became friends, and some began to feel like family. Arsine speaks warmly about her roommate Fatima, her coordinator and mentor, and the many moments they shared — working, travelling, cooking, laughing, facing difficulties and discovering new experiences together.
Volunteering also took Arsine beyond Bulgaria, introduced her to people from different countries and helped her discover new versions of herself. By the end of the project, she describes herself as braver, more independent, more responsible and, above all, deeply grateful.
Her story is not simply about spending several months in another country. It shows how one spontaneous decision can open the way to new friendships, professional experience, creativity and a deeper understanding of both the world and oneself.
Arsine says that if someone asks her one day about the best thing that ever happened in her life, she will remember living and volunteering in Bulgaria, the people she met and the moments she would gladly experience all over again.
E-volution Media Stories is a series by E-volution Media and BRCK Association, sharing the voices and experiences of young people, volunteers, creators and local communities connected through solidarity, creativity, participation and intercultural exchange.
The volunteering activity was implemented by BRCK Association with the support of the European Union through the European Solidarity Corps.