My Ghana experience in 2008

When I went to Ghana back in 2008, it was a really positive experience for me. Our team was well rounded, the local community was generous and the projects we were working on were really interesting. The only issue I had, at that time, things may have changed now, is I didn't feel we made a lasting impact. I feel we touched the hearts of a lot of the young Ghanian boys and girls through our workshops and through passing on knowledge on issues they were not so sure of but I didn't know what the follow up looked like: Were there volunteers going right after us to follow up on our progress?

I absolutely loved going and have recommended the program to many. I feel, at the end of the day, that I got more from the experience as an individual than the impact I made overseas. After this experience I have dedicated my life to working in the not for profit sector, becoming more specialized in impact assessment and measurement.

The training before the trip was really good. We however were a little unclear about the project until we got to Ghana. Looking back, it would of been nice to know a bit more so those that wanted to could have prepared and researched somewhat. Our program leader, I felt, was good. She gave us space but was there when we needed her. Our team was full of bright mid twenties women and I think that helped in making our trip as successful as it was.