Project Overview
Overview
Do you love working with children?
If you’re resilient, patient and optimistic, a number of projects in Mombasa need your support helping vulnerable children. Mombasa is Kenya’s second largest city and is home to more than 30,000 street children and many more youngsters who have been orphaned by HIV/AIDS. By giving your support to these local initiatives, you’ll reach out to some of those children and help put their lives back on track. You also enjoy a full immersion into this stunning coastal city, which boasts some of the world’s best beaches. While at times these projects may be challenging, you can be sure your hard work will be worthwhile.
When you book this trip, in addition to the 52% typically of your programme fee that is spent in country, we will also use US$75 of your fee to purchase 2 new mosquito nets, a mattress or equivalent for the kids through our Big Giving programme.
Trip Highlights:
- The opportunity to make a real contribution to the lives of young people in Mombasa
- Experiencing all that Mombasa has to offer - history, lively streets and nearby beaches
- Learning about Kenya from the 'inside'
Itinerary & Details
What does this community project do?
This project encompasses a number of projects that aim to alleviate some of the difficult circumstances facing many young people living in Mombasa today. There are opportunities to work with children who have been abandoned; orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS; or whose families may be entrenched in poverty and unable to take care of them. Many of these children are street kids who receive care and education at rescue centres and children's homes. These projects exist to rescue, rehabilitate, educate and relocate children who have suffered great hardships as a result of poverty and difficult family backgrounds.
Why does this project need volunteers?
By 2001 an estimated 890,000 children in Kenya had been orphaned by the HIV/AIDS virus, and with 15% of the population between 15 and 49 believed to be carrying the virus, there is an increasing number of children caught up in the wake of the epidemic. The overall result has been a dramatic increase in the number of children, from toddlers to teens, who are living on the streets. Without the means to make any kind of living, they are subject to severe poverty, abuse, drugs and worse. While some children do have surviving relatives to take them in, often the families cannot fully support them, and are able to provide little more than a roof and the occasional meal.
The projects that i-to-i work with in Mombasa endeavour to offer support and advice to young people affected by homelessness, poverty and/or the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Volunteers are desperately needed to support the staff running the centres, and to provide some basic skills and companionship. As English is a national language in Kenya, English teachers are a permanent necessity and by helping in these areas you can bring an invaluable skill to the young people you work with.
Your role as a volunteer
Due to the nature of the projects, your time as a volunteer will be full and varied. Work with children will involve an element of teaching, which will usually be English, but also Maths, Health Education and any other areas you feel comfortable helping out with. For the older children, you can help out with developing vocational skills, such as craft work, sports and growing vegetables. You can also expect to assist with the day-to-day running of the projects, including cooking, preparing meals, cleaning and care work.
The skills you need
You will need to be flexible, and have initiative and enthusiasm to face the many hurdles and challenges that you will inevitably encounter within your role. To ensure that you get the most out of and contribute fully to your project, a pro-active attitude is essential. Any skills that you have in sports, music, drama, art or fundraising will be more than welcome.
Above all, you must have a love of children and commitment to the project. Volunteers with experience in physical education may be able to get involved with strenuous physical activities as part of detoxification and rehabilitation programmes for children coming off drugs. Volunteers may wish to educate themselves on HIV/AIDS and other health issues facing young people.
Accommodation included
You'll be staying in a shared volunteer house or homestay according to availability. The accommodation will be basic but clean. Transport to your project will be by matatu (multi-people taxi) and will take about an hour.
Project resources and advice
The projects will have resources that they us on a daily basis but these are likely to be minimal. You may need to bring or purchase sports equipment, crafts or stationery, this can be bought in Mombasa but please budget for this.
Local facilities
Mombasa is the second largest city in Kenya and is also the largest coastal port in East Africa. It has good transport connections and is well linked to the rest of the country. Facilities are good, with several banks, including Barclays, internet cafes, tour operators and most of the other main amenities you would expect from a city.
Food included
You will be provided with breakfast and dinner each day, which will be made from locally sourced produce such as meat with rice, ugali, chapattis or macaroni.
Things that you will need to organize yourself
- Flights to Kenya: i-to-i can secure preferential rates, please ask us
- Travel insurance: i-to-i can secure preferential rates, please ask us
- Visa
- In-country transport (except your airport pickup on arrival date)
- Tours, trips and add-ons: i-to-i can secure preferential rates, please ask us
- Extra equipment such as stationery, craft items, sports gear, etc
- Extra food
Stories
Simon Edgar gives this project 10/10
Here is what Simon had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The kids... were absolutely amazing! I arrived on my first day and was greeted with a welcome song and dance in Swahili. They were all wearing orange and green uniforms which I later found out were dontaed by two Irish volunteers who left shortly before I arrived. The'r normal clothes were in a terrible state and they looked really proud to be wearing some nice clothes. Considering how little they had they always had time for a smile and loved to play and learn from you.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
It changed the way I looked at meterial posecions. The children here had very little (if anything) and it didn't seem to matter. We could always find something to play and being creative is so much more fun than playing a games console of watching a DVD!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Have an open mind and be creative with time and opportunity
Be prepared to get stuck in and don't expect anything to go to plan. This was an under resourced project with minimal structure but this also made it so much more fun.
Look beyond the immediate needs and see where else you can make a difference. I found taking the older kids to an internet cafe was great fun and a good learning experience for them.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
The only way to see the true heart of a country is to become part of a community.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
More time on project but alas I had to return to work (booooooo)!
Christine Hore gives this project 10/10
Here is what Christine had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Went on Safari on my second week-end to Tsavo East which was absolutely fantastic. Stayed in beautiful Lion Hill Lodge overlooking the park with spectacular views.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
People in Mombasa are so poor and have so little and there are so many children there who have nothing and yet they are always smiling and friendly. So many orphans and children who are HIV positive. It does make you realise how lucky you are and brings you down to earth and makes you appreciate what you have. I will always remember my experience there and would like to go back in a few years again and hope that things will be better for the people there.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Keep an open mind and remember you are in a different country that do things differently.
Go with the flow. Sometimes you might not think you are making much of a difference but you give the children care and attention that they would not get but for the volunteers and they love you being there.
Make the most of your time there and enjoy the country you are in. Do some sightseeing at weekends.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Volunteering in Africa has been a life changing experience for me. Everyting about it was so different. I really enjoyed the project I worked with called Grandsons of Abraham and the boys loved us being there every day. I met some great people so dedicated to their projects. I have come home with a different outlook on life now. It certainly makes you realise how well off you are.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Should have taken some time after project to travel.
Amanda McVeigh gives this project 10/10
Here is what Amanda had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The culture, the children, and the great experiences with the other volunteers.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The orphanages are very eye opening but the cultural differences I experienced gave me many new perspectives.
Lynne Haeussler gives this project 10/10
Here is what Lynne had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The kids at New Hope Center and School were amazing people to meet and be part of their lives briefly.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Same as #1. I would like kids in US to spend time w/ these kids to see what they can do w/ what they have. I think most people coming to live/interact in Mombasa would re-evaluate/appreciate what they are fortunate enough to have in their own lives.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
-staying at volunteer house you get to meet lots of interesting/cool new friends and have back-up
-Mombasa Kenya in Dec/Jan don't bother bringing long sleeves
-jump on in to the local life!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Full of ups and downs, but worth every minute of being there.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Staying longer (3 weeks was way too short) and taking the teaching course.
Katie Mossman gives this project 10/10
Here is what Katie had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Navigating our own way around Mombasa was so easy, you feel proud of yourselves! tuk tuks here, matatus there, ferry over to the project, motor bike, bicycle - it's like your five a day! I loved being independent and seeing other tourists in their air conditioned coaches looking shocked to seeing us walk the streets of Mombasa!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I fell deeply in love and admiration with the children and teachers at my school. Each class had a teacher who did the majority of the teaching and we were there as an assistant which suited me fine! The school had barely any resources but the children were happy to learn and the teachers appreciate the help we can give.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Take binoculars! If you plan on doing a safari at the weekend then you'll kick yourself if you don't bring these.
Don't bring black clothes - it's just far too hot for them and locals wear colourful clothes, join in!
Mombasa is a small place with lots there; don't worry about bringing all your money out with you because there are plenty of international banks there. Don't take travelers cheques because they are hard to cash.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Sweaty, long days with the promise of good company and a cold beer at the end of it!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
More outings in the evenings; we were just too tired from the days work to go out. But if you are there for longer than a week then this shouldn't be a problem. One week is possibly too short to volunteer and see Mombasa...
Alasdair Fraser gives this project 10/10
Here is what Alasdair had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Getting a glimpse of a different culture. Meeting incredibly interesting and intelligent kids. Meeting other volunteers from all over the world.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I'm probably a bit less materilaistic now- I couldn't survive without my ipod tho!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Make sure you stay open minded, flexible and enthusiastic.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Unforgettable experience, the decision to go was amongst the best I've ever made.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
A little more guidance as to what I was expected to do when I was first introduced to my project would have been appreciated.
Stacey Staines gives this project 10/10
Here is what Stacey had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The children at my project, the Kenyan people and the other volunteers i lived with.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Yes - the way in which the project i worked at had nothing. It makes me really realize how very lucky i am to live in the U.K, have the opportunities surrounding me and a family.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
- Try and do as the locals do.
- Try and cram in everything you possilbly can.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
The best decision I ever made, a trip I will NEVER forget.
Sara Smith gives this project 10/10
Here is what Sara had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The children! They were so fantastic and made me feel so welcome. Teaching them new songs and words was so much fun and i cried when i left them!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The way of life in Kenya was a real eye opener, it taught me to be much more relaxed about what i previously perceived as problems in the West.
I also came away feeling incredibly inspired by the people I worked with - they were such a happy, welcoming and loving community and I feel my entire outlook on what is deemed important to me has now changed.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Take a pen knife!
Don't be scared to try new things - sample the food, take a tuk tuk to work and let the children braid your hair - it all makes for an even better experience!
You might see some things that upset you, like children begging for money, don't be afraid to talk to the other volunteers about your thoughts as open discussions really helps.
Keep a journal!!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
My eyes have been opened and my goals in life shifted - outstanding!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Going for longer!
Emma Allen gives this project 10/10
Here is what Emma had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
there were so many highlights that it is hard to pick out one but it has to be the children themselves. The children are amazing, some of the most incredible, loving, affectionate kids I have ever met. The orphanage is very poor and the kids hardly have anything yet they are so happy and I feel priviliged to have met them. I was also inspired by the two wommen who worked in the orphanage - they were incredibly hard working, kind and welcoming and dedicated their lives to the orphanage.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The entire project made me think about the differences between my life and those of the children. It made me want to help them and to make a difference in some way to their lives. It taught me to be thankful for everything that I have and have experienced.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Be prepared for a huge culture shock!Expect to get dirty and dusty - don't take any decent clothes!Interact with the kids and the people as much as possible
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
The most incredible, amazing two weeks!!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I would have liked to have stayed longer! Also, I took all US dollars with me and I couldn't use these in many places and had difficulty changing them due to opening times, so taking kenyan shillings would have been good.
Polly Anna Beaumont gives this project 10/10
Here is what Polly Anna had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The whole trip was an amazing experience in so many ways. It gave me the opportunity to really experience life in Kenya and begin to feel part of the community.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The trip made me realise how much I take for granted at home. I now see that in comparison to the people in Kenya westerners have so many more advantages in life. I was also interested to observe however that the Kenyan people seemed to enjoy life much more than us!!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Take baby wipes, you will use them for everything! Be wary of locals, they are not all as nice as they seem. Go on safari, even if it's only for a day.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
An experience I will never stop talking about!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Recieving my welcome pack and better support from the in country team.
Melissa Boland gives this project 10/10
Here is what Melissa had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The fact that the children have absolutley nothing but are extremely happy and carefree.
The poverty in Mombasa and the unbelievable living conditions for most people.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Yes, the whole experience has shown me how materialistic we are and that we worry and stress over matters that are really not that important. Who cares what kind of car you drive? What does it matter that you can't afford to buy a new dress for the party? If you have your health and people around you who love you, then they are what's important.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Pack less.
Take as many photos as you can.
Be proactive in your approach to volunteering. Don't wait to be asked to help, just get in there and do it.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
eye-opening, comfort zone expanding, loving experiences that have affected me deeply
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
No not really. It was amazing.
Hannah Moysey gives this project 10/10
Here is what Hannah had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The kids. They are the reason that you go out there and they are the absolute hilight! They make everyday worth while. Each one is individual and so special, and each one makes an impact on you.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I went to visit one of the girls from my class at her house and she lived with her 4 siblings and 2 parents in a small room, with one bed. It just made me put everything that i had into perspective. That i knew someone and was emotionally tied to someone who lived like that.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1. Take a pillow, the ones at the house are awful.
2. Take a torch, there are regular power cuts.
3. Don't go with too many expectations because it won't be at all what you expect.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Made a whole new Kenyan family who changed my life!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
``
Nope! You get out of the trip what you put in!
Holly Bardrick gives this project 10/10
Here is what Holly had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
From the start tto the finish was the highligt of this project! It was an amazing experience and I honestly don't think I could pick any highlights as I enjoyed every moment as much as the next!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
If you are female, take leggings with you! Your knees must be covered and we all found that leggings were the best option after trying several different things out! You sweat so much!!!! You have no pride what so ever out there haha! Females - wear a bikini top under your t-shirt! Much easier to hand clean then a bra!!!ENJOY IT!!!! Everyone told me how quickly it was going to go...but you just don't realise HOW QUICKLY it really does go! Enjoy every moment you are there! Don't think about home etc - u will be back there before you know it! Just enjoy every second and make the most of your time!!!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
A truely amazing, life changing, experience!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
No! It was perfect the way it was!
Laura Sumner gives this project 9/10
Here is what Laura had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The children and the people / staff at the school.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The childrens response to education despite their lack of funds and resources. An inspiration to creative, resourceful teaching!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Have a clear idea of why you are going and what you want to gain from your experience.
Dont expect to fit in immediately. Be prepared to sit back, watch and learn for the first week.
Be flexible!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
inspirational, emotional, frustrating, harrowing, challenging, heartwarming, fascinating,
a chance of a llife time,
changes your view on life
makes you reflect on your life and what it means to be on this planet!!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
having more likeminded, tidier and more sociable housemates!
staying longer - 4wks just breaks the ice
better living accomodation
having at least one other volunteer at the project as restricted to what i could do to entertain the kids re trips etc
vicki copeman gives this project 9/10
Here is what vicki had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Going on safari was amazing as welll as the people i got to meet.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Budget!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
An amazing experience that I'm so glad I did!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
i it ws cheaper and better information about the area living in provided prior to the trip
Justine Fargher gives this project 9/10
Here is what Justine had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
accompanying the social workers on the HIV fieldwork home visits.
how different the transport is to home.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
the homevisits were definitely eye openers!!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
make sure you have enough appropriate clothes--shorts/skirts over the knees and nothing shorter than a t-shirt (including arm length)put on sunscreen CONSTANTLY!!make sure you have enough money to do the extras--like the safaris and gift shopping.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
"Helps discover who you really are"
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
if i could've stayed longer, thats how much i loved it!!
Lucy Bennett gives this project 9/10
Here is what Lucy had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
spending time with the children! it was amazing! they were so friendly and welcoming. and also seeing some of the gorgeous beaches and meeting new people.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
yes, seeing how little the children have, especially to eat. i work in an oxford college so going back and seeing how much food is wasted and how lucky these students and other members of the college are was hard. it made me realise how the other half really do live.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1. go for it! don't be afraid or scared even thou the thought of it may seem so. its a fantastic experience, one which you will never forget!
2. put your all into it, you will get out as much as you put in!
3. get to know the culture and your surrounding area, take time to explore and see some of the beautiful places!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
A unique experience which i will never forget!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
staying longer!
Annie Davis gives this project 9/10
Here is what Annie had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The highlights of my trip were the people I met... from the beautiful children at the orphanage with their positive outlook on life, to the inspiring volunteers who were so dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I thought it would be really devastating to see how these orphan children live. However, their positive outlook and happy little faces made me re-evaluate my priorities in life.
I really loved the the rewarding feeling I got from helping the project I worked at. I felt like I made a difference in the lives of the children at the orphanage, from teaching at the school, to helping them financially with a sustainable project. I am now getting more involved with volunteer work back home, as I want to help those less fortunate.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1. Research your country thoroughly so you know what to expect - what the climate is like, what type of clothes to pack and cultural differences to expect.
2. Do some fundraisers at home before you leave. Many of the projects are so needy, it is really great to be able to help them out with some money to buy food or school supplies.
3. Write a blog and attach some photos - your friends and family will love it, and it means you don't have to send out 100 separate e-mails each week!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
An eye opening experience that has changed my life, and made me re-assess my priorities.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I think the country booklets given prior to departure could have more information in them about what type of clothing to pack (e.g. Kenya is conservative and your shorts/skirts need to be knee length and you need short sleeves at your project) and climate.
The volunteer house I stayed in didn't have a toilet seat in our bathroom toilet, and also our bedroom door didn't shut! Just a couple of minor things that could easily be fixed.
Tim Piper gives this project 9/10
Here is what Tim had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Cara Culleton gives this project 9/10
Here is what Cara had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
I just wanted everyone to hear how amazing it is over there. Even though the people have nothing and where they live is beyond anything you could imagine they are still the happy and positive. The children are so welcoming, they just want you to spend time with them and I probably learned more from them than they learned from me.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Seeing how little they have. I had done similar work to this before but the conditions this time were a lot worse. The project continually ask you for money and to pay for thingss because they have no alternative. You see how simple life can be and how much more rewrading it can be!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1) Come with an open mind. I had to deal with a few volunteers who arrived over with the wrong attitude. They just wanted to play with children and did not seem to realise that volunteering is hard work and it can be stresfull. But that is all part of the learning experience. So please volunteers do not throw a fit when it's not all fun and games!
2) Bring lots of bug spray!
3) Make the most of all your time away. Do everything you can with the children, at your project and with the other volunteers because time goes so fast. Before you know it your home.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Best time of my life, friends and memories for life!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
POssibly more of a back round on the project itself so that you can be more prepared on arrival. It would also be good to explain to all volunteers before they go that their project will ask for money or for you to pay for things. Although you do not have to do it, you might like to do some fundraising before you go so that you will have money to use for this purpose.
Camilla Nielsen gives this project 9/10
Here is what Camilla had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The experiences I had at the project.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The kids. It did make me look at my life differently after seeing kids with basically nothing beeing so happy, friendly and open.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
I only have one tip:
- Don't expect anything (It will rarely be anything like you expect - Open mind)
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
an experience that broaden my horizon
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Can't think of anything.
Marilyn. L. Stewart gives this project 8/10
Here is what Marilyn. L. had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
I found the whole experience very worthwhile.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Most of the volunteers were quite young so it was nice to meet different and like-minded people I wouldn't usually get to know, while making a worthwhile difference to the local community.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Age isn't an issue! I'm 61 years of age so it's not just young volunteers who can make a difference.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
An excellent opportunity to provide volunteer support.
Blaser Ursina gives this project 8/10
Here is what Blaser had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
meeting kenian people
ride a Motatoe
Safari with game drives
eating kenian food
the project and my work as volunteer
meeting the other volunteers
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Yes, of course. The time spent in a foreign culture with a foreign language, a foreign religion and a completely foreign way of live opens the mind and the heart and allows to look at the own live in a different manner. Problems become smaller and difficulties seems to be not so huge.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
read a lot about the country ou will go to
be open for new things
trust yourself and the other people around you
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
worthful time
experience which is not for buy
making friends forever
richness of experience for eternity
pictures forever
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
more time to stay longer!!!!!
penny neilson gives this project 8/10
Here is what penny had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
How keen the children at Resoration were to learn English even the little one. What fun the volunteers house was albeit very basic. We all had a lot of laughs
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I did have a problem with my work colleagues who have so much and do so little. I am thinking now I may get them involved in some fund raising now that they have seen the photos of the poverty but the loveliness of the children
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Be very careful with how you carry your money - in any country there are bandits who will try and steal it.
Enjoy the other volunteers and do not make snap judgements. Your likes and dislikes will probably change!
Be careful of the sun particular in Kenya. You will be burnt in minutes with no protection
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
It is not true that roughing it only for the young!!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I should have made more effort to learn Swahali.
Panchompoo Wisittanawat gives this project 8/10
Here is what Panchompoo had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Lillian Lin gives this project 8/10
Here is what Lillian had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Goldi Yaillen gives this project 8/10
Here is what Goldi had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The place itself is just to totally different that anything I have ever seen or experienced back in the states. Also, the friendliness/openess of everyone.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The importance of love and affection for a child and the need for more outreach to those in need.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Know the weather and dress of the place you'll be going beforehand.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Unique and powerful life-changing experience
unlike anything I've ever seen or done
isabella plant gives this project 8/10
Here is what isabella had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
meeting new people and the welcome we were shown by the universal school
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
i now value my education more than ever
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
bring lots of baby wipes
and hand sanitiser
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
awesome
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
more info on my project
John Allen gives this project 8/10
Here is what John had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The smiles on the childrens faces
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Be prepared, arrive with an open mind, make the most of your time on project
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
A thought-provoking experience
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
A reduction in the cost, more support for idea/project development
Geetanjali Karia gives this project 6/10
Here is what Geetanjali had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The children that i worked with during the project and the people that ran the orphanage TWAAYF!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
It was brilliant to live and travel in the way that people who live there would be doing!
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
DO NOT BRING TRAVELLERS CHEQUES!!! Although i-to-i tell you that it is the best way to keep your money this is completely untrue and NOBODY in Mombasa will change them!!
Try to go to see several different projects while ypou are volunteering as this will give you a wider view of the experiences!
Especially if you are at TWAAYF, bring painting things and bubbles!! the kids love it!!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
G
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Knowing not to bring travellers cheques!
For the organisers to have better teamed the skills of the volunteer to the project done!
