Hello dear readers!

We are Sandra and Aleksandar, and we come all the way from the beautiful country of Macedonia.

It’s time to find out a little bit more about us…

Aleksandar:

Ladies first 😉

Sandra:

My adventure began during a peaceful walk in Rõuge, where I felt a deep desire to stay and explore this magical place a little longer. To my surprise and delight, that wish has come true, I got the incredible opportunity to volunteer here in Rõuge!

Who am I?
I’m a 24-year-old who is passionate about travel, art, and learning. After finishing my studies and earning my degree, I knew the next chapter of my life would involve exploring new places and experiences. This volunteering opportunity came at the perfect time, and before I knew it, I was packing my suitcase, filled with excitement and a little nervousness, ready to embark on an adventure like no other.
This year in Estonia will be full of firsts for me – my first time living away from home for such a long period, my first time volunteering, and the first time I’m fully immersing myself in a new culture. I have a feeling it’s going to be one of the most rewarding and unforgettable years of my life!

What do I do?
I am a project manager at an IT company. This fulfills my love for technology.
And I am a volunteer at the youth center in Rouge. This fulfills my love for learning new things, getting to know youngsters and their world, and doing something good for the community.
It’s a perfect balance of giving and growing, and I couldn’t be happier.

A little more about me…
I absolutely adore cats. Back in Macedonia, I have two furry companions whom I will miss dearly, and I never miss an opportunity to help or feed stray cats wherever I go.
Art is another one of my great loves. In my free time, you’ll often find me sketching, doodling, or creating something new. It’s a hobby that keeps me grounded and inspired.
And finally, I’m always up for fun and adventure! Whether it’s a spontaneous hangout or a planned activity, I’m ready to dive in and enjoy every moment. So, if you ever have any ideas, don’t hesitate to reach out – I’d love to join in!

Aleksandar:

And I come from the same childhood town as Sandra. After living for a while in sunny Croatia, I felt it was time for a change. So, when the opportunity arose to experience something completely different, I knew Estonia – with its snow-covered landscapes and peaceful surroundings – was the perfect next stop.

But what really brought me here to Rõuge? Well, my girlfriend Sandra had been telling me for ages about this charming place and how much she loved it. Her stories sparked my curiosity, and now here I am, falling in love with Rõuge myself.

What am I all about?
I’ve always had a deep connection to animals, and I’m a proud dog owner. My dog has been by my side through all kinds of adventures, and I couldn’t imagine life without animals in it. Whether it’s walking in the woods or just being around them, nature and animals are where I feel most at home.
I also love spending time with kids. I guess you could say I’m a bit of a big kid myself – always finding joy in the simple things and never really growing out of my playful side. That’s why volunteering here at the youth center feels like such a perfect fit for me. I get to channel that energy into helping kids, learning from them, and hopefully, inspiring them too.

Why Estonia?
Honestly, I wanted something new, something different from the sunny life I had in Croatia. I wanted a place where snow is a part of everyday life, where the environment feels fresh and new. Estonia offers just that. There’s something magical about being here, especially in a small town like Rõuge. It’s peaceful but full of life, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me. I’m looking forward to all the new experiences this place has to offer – the people I’ll meet, the things I’ll learn, and the memories I’ll make.