After finishing my degree in Education, I decided to do four weeks of volunteer work in Zanzibar! A little break before starting the real working life, and I’m so glad I did it. After a busy final year, it was amazing to leave everything behind for a while and be in a completely different environment.

Coming from the busy lifestyle I was used to, I arrived in a country where the words “pole pole” (take it slow) were said all the time. It was a good lesson for me, but the great thing was that alongside the “pole pole” approach, I could still try my hardest to work at the school. I saw that as a nice balance. It was a rewarding challenge to connect with the children and teachers despite the language barrier and cultural differences.

I realised that with an open mind and non-verbal communication, you can get really far. I also really enjoyed having other volunteers around, which meant I got to meet lots of amazing people in a short time. That was incredibly educational too, because as a team we worked closely together. I think that working intensively in a new team, in a new environment, and within a different culture really helps you get to know yourself better.

Especially if you don’t have anyone from home around you. I think it’s something that can benefit you for your whole life. Besides working at the school, I also had time on the weekends to explore more of Zanzibar, and that was amazing!

It’s a beautiful island, with lovely people and fun activities.

I had such an enjoyable, fun, and educational experience, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone!

- Kim