PMGY Ghana 2014 - Fantastic

I volunteered at Kumasi Childrens Home with PMGY for four weeks (July/August 2014) and had a brilliant time. I chose Ghana because I was excited to see more of Africa and its unique culture and the project offered by PMGY - working with the disabled children - was exactly what I was looking for. All the information and support pre-departure was readily available and detailed, leaving no room for uncertainty!

Meeting my fellow volunteers and the in-country support was one of the most enjoyable aspects of the trip - over my time there I got to know the team very well and there was always someone there if I had questions or was feeling down and needed a hug! Some aspects of the trip were difficult, but I was prepared for this before arrival, it is never easy to see poverty or disability but it is important not to be visibly upset at the project: this is their day to day life after all, not sad to them! The work is really rewarding and you come to really care for the children you meet. Changing, feeding and washing the younger and disabled children makes up the majority of the work as well as helping with washing clothes and dishes. Of course, there is always time to play with the kids and organise tips (we went to the zoo!) which is so much fun!

The new accommodation is amazing, much more than I was expecting, a beautiful, spacious house with all the necessary conveniences (despite the occasional power cut and cold showers!)I wish I could see it when all the finishing touches are in place!

The in-country team could not have been better - constant support and brilliant fun! We all appreciated their organising our trip to Mole National Park, giving us the opportunity to go on safari (we saw elephants!), to visit waterfalls and a monkey sanctuary!

I can't thank PMGY enough, and especially out in-country co-ordinators, for giving me an experience that I will never forget! I already recommend the programme to anyone I meet!