Twice Volunteering in Arusha – A Heartfelt Journey

I've had the incredible opportunity to join this amazing project in Arusha not just once, but twice – and I would do it again in a heartbeat! In September 2024, I started my first volunteer placement in Tanzania. It was during my sabbatical, and I was ready to shake things up – to step away from routine and open myself to something completely new. I had no idea what to expect, but I knew I wanted to try. Looking back, I can say: it was one of the best decisions of my life. 1. The children in the project – pure joy and energy What touched me the most right from the beginning were the kids. Every single morning, they lit up when we entered the classroom. Their joy, curiosity, and gratitude were contagious. Together, we painted, crafted, cut, and created – masks, cardboard animals, colorful sunshades, and so much more. Watching them express themselves creatively and enjoy every little moment was truly heartwarming. 2. The volunteers – a global family When I arrived at the volunteer house, I was warmly welcomed by volunteers from all over the world – people in their early 20s to mid-40s, each with a unique story and background. Despite our differences, we quickly became a close-knit community, sharing experiences, supporting one another, and learning together. This international exchange added so much depth to my time in Arusha. 3. Tanzania – a land full of wonder Tanzania’s natural beauty took my breath away: from majestic mountains like Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, to waterfalls, hot springs, and vibrant landscapes explored on foot or in a safari jeep. But what stayed with me just as much were the people – so warm, welcoming, and full of heart. In March 2025, I returned – because it simply felt right. It was amazing to see how the work we had started in September had grown, and to reconnect with familiar faces. My conclusion: This program was so much more than just volunteering – it was a personal journey, a shift in perspective, and a deeply meaningful experience. If you’re open to learning, connecting, and making a real impact, this project is absolutely for you. And the story didn’t end there: I still work for the organization today because helping the kids touched me so deeply. Being part of this meaningful mission, together with international volunteers and the project leaders, motivates me to keep driving positive change forward. In the meantime, my family and friends have also been inspired and want to get involved and help.