Volunteer of the Month: Réka Csikós

For some people, an exchange year becomes a cherished memory. For Réka, it became the beginning of a lifelong commitment to YFU.

After spending her exchange year in Chile in 2015/16, Réka returned to Hungary with a desire to stay involved. Over the past ten years, she has become an integral part of the YFU Hungary community, contributing with generosity, dedication, and seemingly endless energy. Her commitment has helped strengthen both the organization and the people who make it possible.

Throughout the years, Réka has taken on nearly every volunteer role imaginable, supporting YFU at both the national and international level. In Hungary, she works closely with future exchange students, helping select participants, preparing them for their journeys abroad, and supporting them as they take their first steps into the world of intercultural exchange.

Her contribution has also extended to the strategic development of the organization. During her time as a member of the YFU Hungary Board, Réka helped shape not only the organization's daily work but also its long-term vision, with a particular focus on strengthening the volunteer network that lies at the heart of every YFU organization.

One of Réka's greatest passions is developing the next generation of volunteers. Through trainings, mentorship, and generously sharing her own experience, she helps new volunteers build confidence, develop new skills, and find their own place within the YFU community. Her willingness to support others has had a lasting impact on countless volunteers who continue to shape YFU's future.

Réka's commitment reaches far beyond Hungary. She has represented YFU Hungary at numerous international training events and has volunteered at the YES Seminar for the past three years, helping strengthen connections across the international YFU network. She has also represented YFU at initiatives closely connected to the organization, such as VALE, further contributing to the exchange of knowledge and best practices across borders.

Réka's journey is a wonderful reminder that the impact of an exchange experience does not end when a student returns home. Sometimes, it becomes the beginning of years of service, leadership, and dedication that help create meaningful opportunities for generations of future exchange students.

Thank you, Réka, for everything you continue to give to YFU Hungary and the international YFU community.