Maxim: A Community Development volunteer in North Macedonia

In this interview, we hear from Maxim Abduhalikov. Maxim is a Peace Corps volunteer working as a Community Development volunteer in North Macedonia. What Maxim shares gives us a better understanding of the work volunteers do. We learn about the challenges, rewards, and personal growth that happens from volunteering in a new place. Maxim talks about living in a different country, working with local people, and dealing with surprise situations. Join us as we learn about Maxim’s journey and see how volunteering with Peace Corps can change lives.

It’s not just about adapting; it’s about finding the beauty in the unexpected twists and turns.

Table of Contents

• Volunteer Experience and Motivation
• Living Arrangements and Cultural Integration
• Surprises, Challenges, and Personal Growth
• Community Projects and Interactions
• Advice and Support
• Practical Tips and Language Learning
• Final Thoughts

Volunteer Experience and Motivation

1. Can you tell us more about serving as an Community Development volunteer in North Macedonia?

For community development in North Macedonia, I work 40 hours a week total, but I split it 20/20 between 2 different jobs. I work in part for Shar Mountain National Park and in part for the municipality government of my city. As I am writing this it is the dead of winter, so most of my time at the national park is spent using pre-existing GIS data to make maps of the national park that may be helpful for park rangers, tourists, or anyone else who is involved with the park.

Once the weather warms up a little bit, though, I am going to join the park rangers on more patrols in the mountains. We will travel to remote locations to monitor various issues in our administrative areas. One pressing challenge that we face at the national park is illegal buildings/structures being built inside park boundaries. This Spring my focus will be tracking their locations and investigating each one. In the end, I will try to create a map in GIS with the locations of such structures.

At the municipality, I have been involved in a project aimed at bringing my site in compliance with European Union regulations, with the overarching goal of facilitating the country’s accession to the EU. Among these regulations is the requirement to engage in partnership projects with other nations. In this context, I am currently preparing a project proposal for a sustainable tourism program, inviting other EU countries to participate and integrate similar initiatives into their respective cities.

The map is one that Maxim made for the National Park using GIS data.

2. What motivated you to join the Peace Corps and choose North Macedonia?

I’m what is known as a Peace Corps baby. Back in the 90s, my mom served in the first cohort that went to Kazakhstan (KAZ 1). There, she met my dad, a host country national. My aunt and uncle also met through the Peace Corps, with my aunt serving in Togo and my uncle in Sierra Leone. It’s fair to say I come from a Peace Corps family. My cousin was recently admitted to serve in Madagascar and is leaving this Summer. The Peace Corps is something I’ve always been interested in; it always seemed like the right step after graduating from university.

Being a heritage Russian speaker, I always envisioned serving in a country where Russian is commonly spoken, such as Kyrgyzstan or Georgia. When the time came for me to apply, though, the options for countries where Russian would be useful were limited. That is when I saw the application for Macedonia. Russian is not spoken here, but the Macedonian alphabet is Cyrillic-based and is like a distant relative to the Russian language. Additionally, I had the chance to learn Albanian as well. The deeper I delved into researching this country, the more my interest in serving here grew. Macedonia’s rich history, coupled with the warm hospitality of its people, further captivated me. The beautiful landscapes and delightful cuisine have added to my enjoyment. I am extremely pleased with my decision, and now that I am here, I find it difficult to imagine myself anywhere else.

Living Arrangements and Cultural Integration

3. Tell us more about your home situation:

Currently, I live with a host family in North Macedonia, but, since I was placed in one of the larger sites, I was told that it might be expected for me to move out after the obligatory 4-month period living with a host family. I honestly feel so lucky to live with my host family; they are all so kind and welcoming. They made me feel a part of their family from the first day. I live with a mother, father, son, the son’s wife, and the son’s infant child. The house is always very lively, especially with the familial culture of the country. The extended family always comes over for dinners or just to hang out.

I usually grab some fruits or something basic for breakfast and eat it at work. Additionally, I usually eat lunch at work with my coworkers. For dinner, though, I often eat with my host family. My host mom is truly an amazing chef, cooking a delicious variety of traditional foods.

On days without language classes following my work hours, my routine typically involves heading to the gym. While not every location in Macedonia boasts a fitness facility, the city I am situated in provides me with access to one. This gym is well-equipped, offering everything from free weights and treadmills to various bands and rollers. In addition to gym workouts, I engage in regular football (soccer) sessions for exercise. I discovered a group through my host cousin, and we play together almost every Saturday. Through this, I’ve managed to establish a small community of local acquaintances. Given my recent arrival at the site, forming connections with these local friends has been a delightful aspect of settling in.

Surprises, Challenges, and Personal Growth

4. What has surprised you most about North Macedonia?

The work culture in North Macedonia was a pleasant surprise for me. In the United States, there is a prevailing culture of constant hustle, but here it’s a bit more laid-back. On slower mornings, my colleagues often invite me for coffee as soon as I arrive at the office. We spend up to an hour chatting at the coffee shop, fostering a more relaxed and social environment. It took some adjustment, but I’ve come to appreciate and enjoy this aspect, as it has played a significant role in building friendships with my counterparts and other coworkers.

Another intriguing aspect of the culture here is the attitude towards pets. Although many dogs roam the streets, it’s uncommon for people outside the capital to keep them as pets. Cats are more commonly kept, but they are typically outdoors. My host family, however, has an indoor cat, which seems to be an exception. The pet culture isn’t inherently good or bad; it simply caught me off guard, especially considering the prevalence of friends back home with both dogs and cats.

5. What challenges did you face while working with community members in North Macedonia?

One obstacle I encounter when collaborating with community members in North Macedonia is the variance in work culture. In the United States, the work environments I have experienced are typically fast-paced, requiring me to stay on top of tasks and work swiftly. Conversely, in North Macedonia, the atmosphere is more laid-back. Meetings often commence with casual conversations or catching up, and it’s not uncommon for people to arrive late.

As a Peace Corps volunteer, adaptability is a crucial skill, and I have embraced this challenge by striving to comprehend cultural distinctions. To navigate these differences effectively, I have learned to appreciate the value of building relationships through social interactions before delving into the business aspects of meetings. By acknowledging and respecting these cultural nuances, I have fostered a more collaborative and understanding work environment, enhancing the effectiveness of my contributions as a volunteer.

The Peace Corps has transformed me from someone resistant to change into someone who thrives amid uncertainty. It’s not just a skill set; it’s a mindset – a way of approaching life with open arms and a readiness to dance to the rhythm of the unexpected.

6. How have you grown and developed during your time as a Peace Corps volunteer?

Being in the Peace Corps has been a wild ride, teaching me to handle the curveballs that life loves to throw. Before I landed in Macedonia, I was a bit stuck in my ways – the kind of person who always had a plan and felt uneasy when none of it played out as expected. Fast forward to now, and I’ve developed this knack for navigating the unexpected. It’s not just about adapting; it’s about finding the beauty in the unexpected twists and turns.

In the Peace Corps, you quickly learn that flexibility is your best friend. You can meticulously plan a community project, but then a sudden change in circumstances can flip the script entirely. It’s in those moments of unexpected change that you discover your true adaptability.

I used to stress about deviating from the plan, but now, I’ve learned to see the opportunities that arise when things don’t go as expected. Maybe the original plan didn’t account for the rich perspectives of the community members, or perhaps there’s a more innovative solution waiting to be uncovered. Now, I not only embrace change, but I actively seek out the valuable lessons hidden within it.

Maxim at a wedding, sitting with his counterpart and his counterpart’s wife.

Community Projects and Interactions

7. Any memorable experiences or interactions you’ve had with community members?

Reflecting on my time in the community, it’s been marked by remarkable encounters with its members. An especially memorable experience unfolded in the first few months at my site – an invitation to partake in a traditional Albanian wedding. The celebration was a vibrant event of cultural richness, with lively dances, warm personalities, and a feast of delightful cuisine. While my dancing skills may not have set any records, the enthusiasm to learn and join in the festivities added an extra layer of enjoyment.

This particular wedding held special significance as it was the union of the organization director’s daughter. Being included in such a cherished event was an honor, allowing me to appreciate the depth of cultural customs and community bonds.

Albanian weddings are known for their elaborate celebrations, often spanning multiple days and encompassing various rituals. The colorful attire worn during these festivities reflects the vibrancy of the culture, with intricate designs and symbolic meanings. Dance and music play integral roles, serving as expressions of joy and shared celebration. Each region in Albania contributes its unique dance styles, contributing to the diverse and lively atmosphere.

Ceremonial customs, such as the exchange of rings, traditional blessings, and symbolic gestures, infuse the wedding ceremony with cultural significance. The communal aspect is further emphasized during feasting, where traditional Albanian dishes are generously shared, showcasing the warmth of Albanian hospitality.

Participating in this wedding not only allowed me to witness these cultural traditions but also strengthened my connection with the community. It highlighted the power of shared celebrations in fostering meaningful bonds and creating lasting memories during my time here.

Advice and Support

8. What advice would you give to someone considering serving as an Community Development volunteer?

Expect a significantly slower pace of things compared to the United States, reflecting a notable difference in work cultures that I’ve mentioned before. Some volunteers here may find it challenging to acclimate to this contrast, so it’s advisable to be prepared for the cultural divergence.

The leisurely pace prevalent in both work and social settings may result in delays even during casual meet-ups, such as a 4 pm coffee, where a 30-minute wait for your companion is not uncommon. This relaxed approach to time is ingrained in the local culture, where punctuality may not be as emphasized as in some other parts of the world. While it may require adjustment for those used to a more time-conscious environment, understanding and embracing this cultural nuance can ease potential frustration. The delay is not necessarily a sign of disinterest or disrespect but reflects a laid-back attitude towards time.

Moreover, if you’re a non-white Peace Corps volunteer, like myself, be ready to frequently encounter comments about your appearance. While it’s usually driven by curiosity rather than malice, the constant reminders of looking different can be mentally draining. It’s not a major issue for me, as it often serves as an opportunity to educate others about the diversity in the United States. I suggest anticipating these remarks and acknowledging that it’s okay, viewing it as a chance to foster understanding.

9. What skills or qualities do you think are most important for a Community Development volunteer?

Personally, especially in Macedonia, I have found soft skills to be most important for a community development volunteer here. It is great to have an extensive resume with vast amounts of experience, but it is more important to be able to integrate properly and find your place in your community. A successful volunteer should be able to get over any cultural differences they may find challenging and be able to build relationships with those around them.

Empathy and compassion build meaningful connections, and leadership skills may prove essential in facilitating community initiatives. Cultural sensitivity, project management, networking, and collaboration are vital for aligning interventions with local values and ensuring sustainable outcomes.

My perspective may be considered naive, but I firmly believe that the effectiveness of a Peace Corps volunteer isn’t solely determined by years of work experience. Instead, I place greater importance on the development of interpersonal and integration skills, which I find to be more challenging to cultivate. These skills don’t necessarily correlate with the number of years spent working but are acquired through venturing beyond one’s comfort zone and engaging with diverse individuals without preconceptions. The ability to connect with people on a deeper level is a product of these experiences rather than the sheer accumulation of years in the workforce.

10. How has the Peace Corps staff and training helped you during your service?

Throughout Pre-Service Training (PST), I came across information suggesting that the Peace Corps North Macedonia staff was considered among the best globally for Peace Corps national staff. In my experience, their conduct certainly lived up to this reputation. The staff consistently demonstrated a commitment to making trainees feel welcomed and well-prepared for service. I always sensed a genuine effort from everyone to provide immediate and direct answers to any questions I had; there was a transparency that fostered trust.

Admittedly, some training sessions could be a bit dry. However, it was evident that the staff acknowledged this and understood that not every session could be equally engaging. My advice to future trainees is always to make the most of it. Rather than complaining, I would encourage future trainees to recognize that even the seemingly less dynamic sessions held valuable information essential for becoming a successful volunteer. Paying attention and showing respect to the hardworking staff proved to be the key to navigating through more mundane moments. Their dedication deserves our respect, and maintaining a positive attitude ultimately enhances the overall training experience.

Practical Tips and Language Learning

11. Anything that you packed or didn’t pack that you’d like to tell future North Macedonia volunteers?

I regret not bringing proper hiking boots for this environment. Having grown up in Virginia, I was accustomed to well-maintained trails in the Appalachian mountains, where sneakers sufficed for hikes. However, the terrain here lacks clear trails, and hiking involves navigating through dense vegetation up steep inclines. While it’s possible to purchase hiking gear locally, I find it unfortunate to incur additional expenses for new equipment when I could have allocated that money elsewhere.

I regret not including warmer clothing in my packing list. Previous volunteers had wisely suggested the same while I was gearing up for service, but I didn’t fully grasp how chilly it can get here. Indoor spaces, lacking regular electric heating and with the fireplace confined to the living room, can result in freezing bedrooms at night. I cannot overstate the importance of being adequately prepared for the cold conditions.

12. How has learning the language been?

Peace Corps North Macedonia offers two language tracks: the standard Macedonian language track and the dual-language track. As a dual-language volunteer, I undertook the challenge of learning both Albanian and Macedonian simultaneously. The country itself is approximately one-third Albanian, with a concentration of ethnic Albanians in the Western part.

During our training, dual-language volunteers were based in the larger town of Gostivar in the Western part of Macedonia. Many of us, including me, were eventually placed in the West for our service, with Tetovo being my final placement. Tetovo is one of the larger cities in the country and has the highest concentration of ethnic Albanian people in North Macedonia.

Initially, the prospect of learning two languages simultaneously was daunting. I had chosen Macedonia because of my experience with Slavic-based languages, and now I was also tackling Albanian, a language distinct from most modern languages. Despite the initial challenges, being part of this dual-language track has been immensely rewarding. It has allowed me to connect with a different group of people that I wouldn’t have been able to communicate with if I only spoke Macedonian. Using both languages in my daily life has contributed to continuous improvement in proficiency in both languages.

We alternated between learning Macedonian and Albanian each day during our training. From Monday to Thursday, we attended classes at a local school from 8 am to 12:30 pm. On Fridays, we traveled to the Capital, about a 40-minute bus ride away, for technical training. The overall pace was quite rapid, but I had no objections. While some trainees weren’t fond of the Peace Corps training approach, considering the time constraints of pre-service training (PST), I believe the host country staff did an admirable job. At this stage, I feel quite confident in my Macedonian skills and am on the verge of achieving conversational proficiency in Albanian.

Final Thoughts

13. Any last comments or observations you’d like to pass on to future North Macedonia volunteers?

I highly recommend considering an application to serve in North Macedonia. This enchanting country offers a breathtaking landscape that is sure to captivate anyone fortunate enough to experience it. The warmth and friendliness of the local people add an extra layer of richness to the overall experience. North Macedonia boasts a history that is not only fascinating but also unparalleled, providing an excellent backdrop for cultural exploration and personal growth. The opportunity to immerse oneself in such a unique historical context can be truly enriching.

One of the standout features of serving in North Macedonia is the exceptional country staff who play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and rewarding experience for volunteers. Their dedication and support contribute significantly to the positive impact volunteers can have during their service. This volunteering experience is not just about work; it’s an opportunity to forge meaningful connections with the locals, collaborate with them, and witness firsthand their fascinating cultural identity. Working alongside the amazing people of North Macedonia allows volunteers to gain a deep understanding of the community and contribute to projects that promote sustainable development.

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The content of this post does not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Government, the Peace Corps, or North Macedonia Government.