My story with GIVE Volunteers is quite unique. I was walking around my school's campus when I found a bright, green slip of paper on the floor of the library that talked about a GIVE information session. Skeptical at first, I decided to go because why not. There I met one of the Tanzania guides, Hannah, who convinced me that GIVE is not a scam. I went back home and immediately put down my deposit and committed to the trip. This was definitely one of the best decisions I have ever done.
GIVE was so amazing in helping me plan for and complete the trip. GIVE is an organization that strives to inspire people to become global citizens and effect sustainable change wherever they go. Through the adoption of a “asset-based community development model” or ABCD, GIVE strengthens communities and promotes hands-on experiences that foster deeper connections between volunteers and the local people. The best part about GIVE is that the proceeds earned go right back into the local communities, further assisting their entrepreneurial efforts and bettering the lives of future generations.
They would send me reminders consistently of what to pack, where to go in the airport if bags were lost, when to sign up for a visa, etc. I ended up booking my tickets through Student Universe (GIVE's booking partner) which was so helpful. It's crazy enough being a college student, but it is harder to be a college student who is planning to travel across the world by himself for the first time. Student Universe helped me when my departure was too early, and they found me the best rates for tickets.
The trip was incredible and something truly memorable. From the moment I arrived, I felt safe and at home. Our guides Sophi and Khamis were awesome and stood with us the whole entire trip from the moment we landed to the moment we left. Something that struck me about Tanzania was how welcoming everyone is. It is not like the United States where nobody knows each other or even says hello to each other.
The village of Kairo was the most enjoyable moment for me. Getting to meet Talha, MC, Baboi, Fani, Amour, Big Head, Smile, Hannah, and Faith was an amazing experience. Everyone was so welcoming and encouraging the whole trip. From educating Maasai men to constructing a primary school, there was never a dull moment, and I ended up learning more about myself from the locals than I knew about myself beforehand. The additional activities like Swahili lessons, weaving with the local women, Culture Day, Adventure Day, and the safari helped me feel as though I was a part of the community and helped me understand the differences in livelihoods between people in the United States and Tanzania.
One takeaway that I will keep with me was the phrase that our guide Sophi would say which is "inspired people inspire people." I could not think of a truer statement. It was so great getting to see the positive impact we had on the community and learn all about the locals. I will never forget my experience in Tanzania. This trip took me way outside of my comfort zone in ways that I could not have imagined. I would not have completed this trip if it wasn’t for the support I had from everyone I met. I am truly inspired to continue the efforts of GIVE and change the world for the better.
