My daughter Jane went at Better Me for the thirth time and she asked me to come with her, I was hesistant at first but I'm so glad I went along. As a 50year old Belgian father, I was surprised by everything I saw on arriving in the African continent: another world opened my eyes, a culture shock! I don't have experience in education or teaching, so I proposed to help as a handyman. The first days I gave a helping hand to Lawrence by making concrete, installing doors and a new closet in the kitchen and while we worked, I made connection with the little boys and we played together...football, painting, coloring, hide and seek, catcher,...I made them laugh, they made me laugh...unforgettable those little faces! When they had to work in the garden, I was with them to help and little by little also the bigger boys opened up more and more. One day the bigger boys and girls guided me to hike up to the hill: a challinging walk with a beautifull view over Kisumu and Lake Victoria as a reward...I was one of them :)... In the evening when the boys went to sleep, I was not always sure: should I cry or laugh? As a father from the wealthy Europe I was effected by the situation buth finally I am convinced that despite the minimal comfort, these kids are doing well: they have education and school, they have good food, they receive love from the many employees and volunteers...they have a future, thanks to Better Me! A lot of thanks to my daughter Jane for taking me along and off course to Better Me for the big work they do everyday and for the unforgettable experience they gave to me. One day, I will be back! Guido from Belgium.

I‘m so glad I could do this program and on top of that, share it with 3 friends of mine from university. It was a magical and unforgettable time there, I already miss all the people, the kindness, the positivity, the laughter from the children, the funny and the not so funny moments together - everything about it! Being part of this family and having the chance to be in the middle of it all had a great impact on me. Seeing how the kids live there, but still being so positive and full of life, playing with them, eating chapati with them, learning how to cook the best meals and trying local food, going out with the other volunteers, to dunga beach or karaoke bar, going on little adventures together like a sunrise hill walk or to the Equator - it was all unbelievable.

I also had the opportunity to do 2 weeks of clinical orientation in the Kisumu County Referral Hospital, which was a great experience for us as medical students from Austria. Talking with other students and doctors, seeing the procedures and operations done differently, and overall, the whole hospital and health care system was very interesting to see.

Thanks to everyone for making this time unforgettable :)

In the beginning, I wasn’t sure if going to Kenya for a social project was the right decision. But from the very first call with Tom, I felt an instant sense of trust and warmth. I was welcomed with open arms and felt part of something meaningful right away. The experience truly changed my life — whether it was hearing the touching stories of the children, working on the streets, or speaking in schools. Every moment was deeply moving, and I always felt safe, supported, and cared for. I can wholeheartedly recommend this journey.

I loved my stay there. From the activities we did to the people I met. The clinical orientation wasn’t what i expectet but I‘m glad I did it. Overall I had a lot of fun. I loved how all the people where openmindet and happy all the time. The kids where so sweet and I always was looking forward going to chapati night on thursday with them. The team was really nice to us as well and from the moment we met they wellcomed us to the familiy and you felt like a part of the group. Thank you for everything.

Taking part in this program was an extraordinary experience that had a significant impact on me both personally and professionally. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and included, and I quickly realized that this was going to be more than just a temporary involvement. It became a journey of personal growth, cultural exchange, teamwork, and self-discovery. Looking back, I can confidently say that the time I spent with this organization has shaped me in ways I could not have anticipated, and it is an experience I would wholeheartedly recommend to others.

One of the aspects I appreciated most was the way the organization tailored projects to the individual strengths and interests of each participant. Instead of assigning tasks randomly, there was real thought given to where people could contribute most effectively and, at the same time, develop their own abilities. I was given the opportunity to work on different projects that challenged me to think creatively, solve problems, and take responsibility. This approach not only made me feel valued but also allowed me to explore areas I had never worked in before. It gave me the chance to step out of my comfort zone, while still feeling supported every step of the way.

Volunteering with Better Me in Kisumu, Kenya, has been an experience I can highly recommend. I returned for a second time and immediately felt welcomed back into a familiar yet dynamic environment. Many activities, like the Art Class with the Korando kids or teaching at the Remand Home, were already known to me, but each day still brought something new. A highlight this year was helping at “Mama Ngyna,” where I supported with simple but meaningful tasks like feeding, dressing, or playing with the children. What stands out about Better Me is that volunteers are integrated into everyday life and contribute in ways that feel both practical and impactful. The work is varied, the atmosphere is supportive, and every visit offers valuable insights. For anyone considering volunteering, Better Me provides a structured yet flexible setting where small contributions can make a real difference.

I learned so much from my time with BetterMe. From cultural and language immersion to national history to the nonprofit and education systems, the program created such a rich learning environment. Working with BetterMe means working on an international, intercultural team of people who are passionate about youth mental health and wellness. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone who is looking to work in international relations, psychology, philanthropy, education, or who is simply excited to experience the beautiful world of East Africa.

Volunteering with Better Me was a truly life-changing experience. The local team was professional, supportive, and deeply committed to their mission. From day one, I felt welcomed and guided, while still having the freedom to contribute meaningfully.

The projects were well-structured and impactful, focusing on the needs of the community rather than quick fixes. I especially valued the emphasis on teamwork and the respectful collaboration with local staff, which made the work sustainable and authentic.

Beyond the project, the organization provided excellent support with logistics, cultural integration, and opportunities to explore the country. I always felt safe, cared for, and part of something bigger.

I would highly recommend Better Me to anyone seeking not only to give, but also to learn, grow, and connect across cultures.