Alumni Spotlight: Matthew Bejoy

Photos

Matthew Bejoy volunteered with Rainbow Voluntours in March of 2013. He is a photographer and cafe owner.

Why did you decide to volunteer abroad with Rainbow Voluntours in India?

Matthew: I chose Rainbow Voluntours as they seemed to offer an organised program and their trips seemed really exciting. I did a cycling challenge with my volunteering which was great. Their volunteering is genuine and its just so rewarding.

What made this volunteer abroad experience unique and special?

Matthew: The interaction with the locals made this experience really special. The teachers were so friendly and we even went to their house for lunch. The rainbow staff was also great and so knowledgable of local areas. The connection with locals was something amazing.

Tell me about one person you met.

Matthew: One of my favorite teachers was Usha who really gave me a lot of help to understand the education system in India. I connected really well with her and she also took me to her home to make poppadums (which was her side business)!

Do you feel like you made a significant impact on the local community? Why or why not?

Matthew: Absolutely we made a difference via the program. Helping the children with English and giving them exposure through volunteering via Rainbow is great. I feel I was able to teach the children something and left my mark in a small way. A lot of help is needed and I would recommend volunteers to sign up and help Rainbow in their aims of increasing levels of English through their project.

How has this experience impacted your future? (Personally, professionally, etc)

Matthew: I love travelling and thanks to my experience I was also able to volunteer. I will certainly look into volunteering more as its so rewarding and I was able to really feel humbled and so happy to see what it can do. I also love photography and I want to pursue a project taking photos of kids around India .