Why did you decide to volunteer with Volta Aid Foundation (VAF) in Ghana?
Jackie: I was looking for an organisation for volunteer work on the Internet and VAF was one of the cheapest ones I found. Their website is very organised, professional and contents all the necessary information. Also most of the fees go into the different projects they are working on. When I contacted them by email, I got an answer within 24 hours which I didn't expect at this point! They offer an excellent service and help where they can. My visa, flight, vaccinations etc. were already organised 2 months before I left for Ghana.
Describe your day to day activities as a volunteer.
Jackie: I stayed as a volunteer in an orphanage in the Volta Region. At the beginning I taught Kindergarten and Primary School all by myself which was a surprise and a challenge. It was not planned, but absolutely necessary because of the circumstances in the orphanage.
So I got up with the kids in the morning and helped them with bathing and getting ready for school. After the older kids went to school, the younger ones got breakfast. School started whenever they have eaten and were ready. I was extremly happy when other volunteers arrived to support me with the kids. After lunch we normally played games. In the evenings, I helped the older children with their homework. I also helped them with their daily chores. Cooking, cleaning, washing... I also gave them vitamines once a day, which were donated from a previous volunteer from VAF.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Jackie: Personally I have learnt a lot. I have realised how spoilt we are at home. Those children in Ghana have nothing, but they are so happy and full of life. We can learn a lot from them!! I work in the hotel industry and it was a great break from work. I was very relaxed when I came home and ready for another challenge in my job. My experience in Ghana changed me a lot in my way of thinking. I had a great time, but it was a culture shock at the beginning. I'm a very flexible, open-minded and adjustable person and it helped me a lot to make my time special.