I’ve often thought about doing volunteer work, but it never quite happened. Until now!

From the moment I set foot in Tanzania until I was back on the plane home, I enjoyed every moment of this adventure in a completely different culture.

Through Volunteer Worldwide, I got involved with a wonderful project in Zanzibar, a day program for children with disabilities, set on a beautiful island.

I stayed in a bungalow on the project grounds, which was set up by a Dutch woman, Ellen. I am trained as a doctor and work with children with disabilities in the Netherlands, but I wanted to contribute in a less medical way. Ellen gave me complete freedom and let me get involved in the school.

I created new lessons, ran creative activities, took portrait and family photos, taught the teachers English (and they taught me Swahili), but above all, I tried to make sure these children left every day happy and smiling.

This experience has enriched me in many ways, but now that I’m back home, I realise that the ability to put things into perspective is especially valuable.

I witnessed some heart-wrenching situations, but I also saw how kind and helpful the local people are. I experienced the simple, rustic life in the villages, but I also got to visit some of the most beautiful spots on this tropical island. I was amazed at how these children cope with their disabilities, how optimistic they are, and how happy they are to come to this project every day. It’s a wonderful project, and I hope I was able to make a small contribution.

I would recommend anyone to volunteer on a project like this at least once. For me, it was an unforgettable and amazing adventure. Thanks to Ellen and Volunteer Worldwide.

- Stephanie