Life changing experience - literally my life changed

Ratings
Overall
5
Impact: 5
Support: 5
Fun: 5
Value: 5
Safety: 5
Review

My name is Georgia, I'm 20 years old and Im from England. Im currently a student at Durham University studying Human Geography. Ive just started my final year of my degree and the hot topic of conversation between my friends, family and basically anyone I meet is 'What are you going to do once you graduate?', and my answer to this question was always 'I have no idea'. To be honest with you, its still very daunting and hideously scary to think that soon enough I'm going to be a proper (hopefully) working adult. But after my short time in kenya I realised that my near future doest have to just be a 9-5 office job, running around a hot and sweaty city doing jobs for everyone. I worked with Positive Life Kenya, a small NGO located just outside of Nairobi that work to empower HIV+ women. My daily jobs consisted of home visits to the women, giving support and most importantly finding ways and teaching the women how to become independent financially. We set up an Esty page to sell some of the beautiful jewellery that the women made. We helped maintain the table banking system that supports the women with small loans to help expand their businesses. My experience at this NGO showed me how this type of work really changes lives. Young children were found sponsors so they can leave the slums and get the right support and nutrition. The women found their feet again and could support their families. The vibes of Kenya, the help and security I had from IVHQ and incredible adventures I had, together combine to help give my final answer to that burning question of 'What do I want to do when I graduate?'. My answer is... I want to move to Kenya and work with an NGO that empower women. Okay okay, I havent quite figured out everything yet, but Im working towards finding an internship or placement at an international organisation that will give me the same kind of work experience that IVHQ provided but at a more permanent level. Travelling to new countries, and especially working during your visit, opens your eyes but can also provide real life changing moments.

Would you recommend this program?
Yes, I would
Year Completed
2016
Private Note to Provider (optional)
Ive volunteered with IVHQ multiple times and overtime the very high standard is met - i will keep referring IVHQ to my friends
Media
Photos