BEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE!!!

To say this trip changed my life would be an understatement. I have never felt so at home at a place than I did in Zanzibar. The people of Kairo are incredibly special. They are the most kind-hearted, joyful, and welcoming people I’ve ever met. The GIVE staff creates such a positive environment from the moment you arrive and does everything possible to make the volunteers feel prepared and ready to work. They are organized and are always available to help if need be. The care they have for the Kairo community is truly inspiring. It was amazing getting to be surrounded by like-minded people who all had such a giving heart for others. This is such a unique organization because it perfectly balances hard work and leisure/play . Yet I loved that even the “play” you experience, such as swimming with dolphins or going on safari, is still giving back to the community. The education coordinator (MC) and all of the construction guides (Khamis, Fani, Big Head, Smile, Baboi) helped make volunteering feel effortless because of the joy and energy they brought every day. I am so grateful to have been a part of this experience and would recommend it to anybody who is looking for a safe, responsible way to travel, while impacting the lives of others. A piece of advice I would give to future volunteers is put yourself out there as much as possible and soak up every moment. There is absolutely no judgment, so if you allow yourself to be 100% your authentic self, you will feel more confident and your relationships will blossom right from the start. This trip will not only change your perspective, but also your heart. <3