A Day in the Life of an Online English Teacher

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[Video Interview] Cassie DePecol, Fastest (AND 1st!) Woman to Visit Every Country

Cassie DePecol: 1st & Fastest Woman to Visit All Countries on Earth

<h3>What inspired you to work for <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/seed-madagascar rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>SEED Madagascar</ins></a>?</h3>
<p>What inspired me to work for SEED is the unique position it holds at the intersection of research, hands-on fieldwork, and community engagement. It’s rare to find an organization where you’re not only contributing to scientific research but also actively living and working within the community that the project supports.</p>
<p>Madagascar itself is an incredibly unique place. Many people don’t get the opportunity to experience rural southeastern Madagascar, especially the remaining littoral forests, which are some of the last of their kind in the world. Being able to work in such a biodiverse and threatened environment is both a privilege and a responsibility.</p>
<p>What motivates me most is seeing the tangible impact of our work. Because we live in the community, we’re not removed from the outcomes; we see how conservation efforts, education, and research directly benefit local people. Being able to develop my career while contributing to meaningful, positive change is what truly inspired me to join and continue working with SEED.</p>
<h3>Describe a typical day at work.</h3>
<p>A typical day starts early. I usually wake up around 5:30 or 6:00 a.m.—I like having a bit of quiet time before the day begins. Breakfast is at 6:30, and we’re very fortunate to have a camp chef, so all our meals are provided.</p>
<p>After breakfast, we head straight into the field. The morning usually involves a survey—this could be long-term biodiversity monitoring, such as lemur or herpetofauna surveys, or sometimes tree planting as part of the reforestation project. Fieldwork normally takes up most of the morning.</p>
<p>We return to camp for lunch, and in the afternoon, we focus on data entry and analysis. Since we rely on solar power, we try to make the most of the daylight hours for computer-based work. Most days also include a night survey.</p>
<p>We head back into the forest around 7 p.m. to monitor nocturnal species, and we might finish anywhere between 9 and 11 p.m., depending on the length of the survey.</p>
<p>Alongside research, there’s also the day-to-day running of the camp. That includes managing logistics, ensuring equipment is charged, supporting volunteers, and making sure everything operates smoothly. So it’s a balance between field research, data management, and camp coordination.</p>
<h3>What challenges do you often face, and how do you overcome them?</h3>
<p>Working in rural southeastern Madagascar comes with a number of challenges. One of the biggest is being resource-limited. For example, we rely heavily on solar power, which means our ability to complete computer-based work depends on the weather. When conditions aren’t ideal, we have to be flexible and adjust our schedules accordingly.</p>
<p>We also work in a relatively isolated community as foreigners, so building trust is essential. It’s important that the community understands we’re working with them, not just in their space. At the same time, we’re careful not to create dependency. Our goal is to build resilience and agency — ensuring that when we eventually leave, local stakeholders have the knowledge and capacity to continue the work independently. To navigate this, we collaborate closely with our national staff, who provide critical insight into the local context and cultural nuances. Their guidance helps us approach challenges in a respectful and effective way.</p>
<p>There are also environmental challenges — cyclones, heavy rainfall, extreme heat, and equipment failures are all realities of fieldwork here. You can’t prevent every obstacle, but you can anticipate many of them. Planning ahead, maintaining equipment, and building flexibility into our schedules help us stay prepared.</p>
<p>On a personal level, isolation can also be challenging. Living and working in a remote environment means spending a lot of time alone. I’ve learned the importance of setting aside time for myself — staying connected with friends and family, going for walks, and reminding myself why I chose this work. Reconnecting with that sense of purpose helps me stay motivated, especially during difficult periods.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773389275/images2/interviews/cm6GTcoY8mLPDFUn95smGqnrXHtjavPXX0g5Z2i6.jpg" alt="a brown lemur on a tree branch"><div class="caption"><p>Brown lemur visiting the campsite in Sainte Luce.</p></div></div>
<h3>What are some current projects you are working on?</h3>
<p>SEED has been running research programs for over 20 years, so there are a number of long-term projects currently underway. These include biodiversity monitoring of lemurs and herpetofauna, research on bat species such as the Madagascan flying fox, conservation work with endangered palm species, and the Ala Reforestation Project.</p>
<p>Since my background is in agroecology and agricultural sciences, I’ve been primarily involved in the reforestation work. Our goal is to extend existing forest corridors to help reconnect fragmented littoral forest habitats. In Sainte Luce, one of the key challenges is that local communities rely heavily on forest resources, often in ways that aren’t sustainable. Through the reforestation project, we’re working to develop and implement more sustainable restoration practices that both support biodiversity and respond to community needs.</p>
<p>We’re currently setting up experimental trials to evaluate which planting strategies and species combinations are most effective in this specific ecological and social context. A big part of our work is understanding not just what works ecologically, but what works for the community as well — ensuring that conservation efforts are practical, sustainable, and beneficial locally.</p>
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<h3>What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?</h3>
<p>I would tell myself to be flexible and open-minded. When you’re working in a different cultural context, it’s essential to adapt — not just your work style, but also the way you communicate and interact with others. Things won’t always be done the way you’re used to, and that’s okay. Being open to different approaches is part of the growth. Traveling, especially to somewhere as different as rural Madagascar, means you’re going to meet people from many backgrounds and perspectives. The more open you are, the more you’ll learn.</p>
<p>I’d also tell myself to embrace discomfort. Some of the most meaningful experiences come from pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. You learn so much about yourself, what you value, what challenges you, what you enjoy, and what you don’t. And the only way to learn those things is by actually going out there and trying.</p>
<h3>What makes SEED Madagascar special?</h3>
<p>What makes SEED special is its ability to combine scientific rigor with meaningful community engagement—at least in the department where I work. It’s not just about validating our own assumptions; it’s about going into communities, understanding what is actually needed, monitoring progress over time, and continuously adapting our projects to meet both community and project needs.</p>
<p>Another unique strength is how fully integrated our staff and volunteers are within the community. By working closely with national staff, we come together to empower communities and build long-term resilience. This collaborative spirit isn’t limited to one department; it’s something you can see across all projects, which makes SEED truly distinctive.</p>
<p>I also believe that SEED’s continuity in the Anosy region is something truly special. Over time, long-term engagement has built genuine trust within the community. That sustained presence allows for deeper impact, something that short-term, project-focused organizations often struggle to achieve.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773390467/images2/interviews/5wYMeG6umWyh1zyzmxYcg3FF4SPEx3pwnFgRj3Dv.jpg" alt="A group of people standing outside a small wooden house"><div class="caption"><p>Miguel and the SCRP team in Sainte Luce, working together to support local conservation initiatives.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why should someone choose SEED Madagascar over competitors?</h3>
<p>I think SEED stands out because of its scale and focus. We’re a relatively small organization working in one specific region of southeast Madagascar, which allows us to be highly specialized and deeply embedded in the communities where we operate. Rather than spreading resources thinly across multiple countries or projects, we concentrate our efforts where we can create meaningful, measurable impact.</p>
<p>Another key difference is our community-centered approach. We work very closely with national staff and local stakeholders to develop solutions that are practical and sustainable in the long term. The goal isn’t just to implement projects, but to build resilience and local capacity so that progress continues independently.</p>
<p>Because we live and work in the community, we see the direct outcomes of our efforts. That proximity creates accountability and ensures that funding is directed straight into on-the-ground projects where it makes a tangible difference.</p>
<p>Ultimately, SEED offers a combination of scientific rigor, long-term commitment, and genuine community partnership that sets it apart.</p>
<h3>What hopes do you have for the future of SEED Madagascar?</h3>
<p>Looking ahead, my biggest hope for the organization is that the continuity we’ve built in Anosy continues to grow into something fully community-led. A major part of our work has been building resilience and strengthening local capacity, and I hope that over time we can continue shifting leadership and decision-making power from international staff to Malagasy staff.</p>
<p>Ultimately, I would love to see the organization run entirely by Malagasy professionals — with international staff stepping into supportive or advisory roles rather than leading. That transition would represent true sustainability and real community agency. It would mean that the systems, knowledge, and trust we’ve built are strong enough to stand on their own.</p>
<p>If we can reach that point, I think it would be one of the clearest signs that our work has truly succeeded.</p>
<h3>What is SEED Madagascar’s mission and how do you continue to work toward it?</h3>
<p>SEED’s mission is to promote sustainable environmental management, education, and community development across rural southeast Madagascar. What makes the organization unique is that it approaches these goals holistically with different departments working together to address interconnected social and environmental challenges.</p>
<p>I work within the Conservation Research Programme, where our focus is on biodiversity monitoring and protection. We conduct long-term ecological monitoring to track population trends of endangered and understudied species, including lemurs and herpetofauna - frogs, chameleons, and snakes that are often overlooked but ecologically important.</p>
<p>This data collection and analysis are critical. It allows us to understand how species populations are changing over time and helps inform conservation strategies at both the local and regional levels. We’re one of the few organizations in southeastern Madagascar conducting consistent, long-term monitoring of this kind.</p>
<p>Beyond data collection, a key part of our work is community engagement: ensuring that local stakeholders understand the importance of biodiversity and how forest conservation connects directly to livelihoods.</p>
<p>We also share our findings more widely so that people outside Madagascar are aware of the environmental pressures facing these ecosystems and can contribute to conservation efforts in meaningful ways. Through research, collaboration, and community partnership, we’re working toward SEED’s broader goal of sustainable development that benefits both people and biodiversity.</p>
<h3>What do you hope participants take away from your programs?</h3>
<p>Working in the conservation department, we host many volunteers who support us with data collection and field research. Our hope is that when participants leave, they truly feel that they’ve made a meaningful contribution, not only to our scientific work, but also to the community we live and work alongside in Sainte Luce.</p>
<p>Many of our participants are master’s students completing their theses, so we also hope they gain valuable professional experience. By working closely with trained scientists and coordinators, they’re able to develop practical research skills, deepen their understanding of conservation work, and see how science is applied in a real-world context.</p>
<p>Beyond the technical skills, we hope they leave with a genuine appreciation for Madagascar, for its ecosystems, its communities, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with working in such a special place. Ideally, they return home with a stronger sense of responsibility toward conservation and a deeper understanding of what community-based, long-term work really looks like.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773389974/images2/interviews/drsnySs46amLj7LEUGoUNHVKgorX1mdkMghsIJ6T.jpg" alt="A calm river reflecting mountains and lush tropical vegetation"><div class="caption"><p>The beautiful scenery around Sainte Luce.</p></div></div>
<h3>How do you help support participants?</h3>
<p>Working in a remote camp with a small team means that participant support is incredibly important. We want volunteers to feel that they’re not only contributing meaningfully, but also that they’re supported, heard, and comfortable in what can be a very unfamiliar environment. Living and working in rural Madagascar isn’t always easy, especially for participants who may not have a scientific or field background. So we make sure communication is always open. We check in regularly, create space for questions, and encourage honest conversations about how they’re feeling and how the experience is going.</p>
<p>Support also extends beyond the work itself. We provide tents so they have a comfortable place to sleep, all meals are prepared for them, and we guide them through daily camp life so they understand what to expect. Professionally, we walk them through the surveys we conduct and explain not just how we do them, but why the work matters. Providing that context helps them feel more connected to the bigger picture.</p>
<p>Outside of work hours, we try to build a positive community atmosphere, whether that’s having conversations, going for walks, or playing games together. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure participants feel safe, supported, and able to make the most of their time here.</p>
<h3>Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?</h3>
<p>I think it’s important to travel abroad and experience new cultures because it gives you a completely new perspective. In my own life, I’ve had the opportunity to live in several different countries alongside people from backgrounds very different from my own. Those experiences have challenged the way I see the world and helped me understand that there isn’t just one way of thinking, living, or solving problems.</p>
<p>Travel pushes you outside of your comfort zone. It encourages you to try things you might never have considered before and to adapt to unfamiliar environments. In doing so, you don’t just learn about other cultures, you also learn about yourself. You begin to understand what you value, what excites you, and where your passions truly lie.</p>
<p>Ultimately, experiencing new cultures broadens your worldview and opens doors you may not have even known existed. It builds empathy, resilience, and curiosity — qualities that stay with you long after the trip is over.</p>
<h3>Why do you think learning a new language is important?</h3>
<p>I think learning a new language is important because it allows you to connect with people in a way that simply wouldn’t be possible otherwise. When you make the effort to speak someone’s native language, it shows respect, and people genuinely appreciate that effort. It creates an immediate sense of openness and mutual understanding.</p>
<p>Language also carries nuance, humor, emotion, cultural references, that often doesn’t fully translate. When you speak to someone in their native language, you access a different layer of their personality and culture. For example, when I lived in France, speaking French allowed me to form friendships in a deeper way. I was able to see a different side of people than I might have if we had only communicated in English.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773716804/images2/interviews/3k0XqWlxGjqYDKLYXzqCggINIK1ANNrb4fIM3Mwj.jpg" alt="a group of people posing for a photo together in a forested area"><div class="caption"><p>The SCRP team in Sainte Luce with volunteer Malte (in the centre).</p></div></div>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>To me, meaningful travel is about taking something lasting away from the experience. It’s not just about visiting a place to take photos or staying somewhere comfortable — although there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s about growth.</p>
<p>Meaningful travel means stepping outside of your comfort zone, meeting new people, and trying things you wouldn’t normally try. It might mean forming a deeper connection with a friend you’re traveling with, or building relationships with people you meet along the way. It’s about being present enough to let the experience change you in some way.</p>
<p>Ultimately, meaningful travel is when you return home with more than just memories — you come back with new perspectives, stronger relationships, and a better understanding of yourself and the world around you.</p>
<h3>What does ethical global engagement mean to you?</h3>
<p>To me, ethical global engagement means prioritizing the needs, voices, and leadership of the communities we work with. It’s about making sure we’re not simply validating our own assumptions or advancing our organization’s agenda, but actively listening and responding to what the community identifies as important.</p>
<p>In this context, working in rural Madagascar, that means ensuring participants and community members have an active voice in decision-making. It also means national staff are not just involved, but are at the forefront of the organization — leading initiatives and shaping long-term direction.</p>
<p>Ethical engagement is also about sustainability. We’re not here simply to provide services or temporary support. The goal is to build resilience, strengthen local capacity, and create frameworks that allow communities to thrive independently. Ultimately, success means that the systems in place are strong enough that they don’t rely on our continued presence.</p>
<p>For me, ethical global engagement is rooted in respect, shared ownership, and a long-term commitment to empowerment rather than dependency.</p>


Miguel Torres

Get to know the people behind SEED Madagascar! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Miguel Torres.

Miguel Torres | SEED Madagascar Staff Interview

SEED Madagascar Staff Interview with Miguel Torres

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>I have always had a strong desire to see the world and understand how people live in different cultures. I was born in Germany and left at a young age, later living in South Africa and traveling through several African countries. These experiences made me appreciate community life and the importance of helping others.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Volunteering abroad gives me the chance to stay connected to the world, meet people from different backgrounds, and support meaningful projects that make a real difference in people’s lives.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/kar-genocenter-for-hope-kenya rel="" target="_self" class="link">Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya</a>?</h3>
<p>I chose Kar Geno – Center for Hope because I have known the organization for many years and have seen the impact of their work firsthand. Since 2016, I have been closely connected with the <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/kar-genocenter-for-hope-kenya/programs/volunteer-to-empower-hiv-affected-women-in-tailoring-kisumu-198130 rel="" target="_self" class="link">program</a> and the women involved in it.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What I like most is that the organization is genuine and community-based, and the support given to the women is real and practical. As a retired nurse, I value programs that help people improve their lives through skills, cooperation, and encouragement.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773800306/images2/interviews/QL5yg8XnV9GlSJ92fvkmR9QpeYghKDtVJY3XOe6v.jpg" alt="a group of adults and children posing for a photo outdoor"><div class="caption"><p>Moments like this remind me why I keep coming back.</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Kisumu?</h3>
<p>My favorite part about Kisumu is the strong sense of community and the friendliness of the people. Everyone welcomes you warmly, and you never feel like a stranger. I also love the relaxed atmosphere of the lakeside city and the beautiful surroundings near Lake Victoria.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The women in the program are very cooperative and hardworking, and their positive attitude is inspiring. I also enjoyed the local food, the markets, and the way people always greet you with a smile.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>What made this experience extraordinary is the feeling of belonging. When I am with the women in the program, I feel like I am with family. They welcome you with open hearts, they share what they have, and they make sure you are comfortable at all times.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The cultural experiences, the traditional dancing, the music, and the strong community spirit make every visit special. It is not just volunteering, it is a life experience that stays with you long after you leave.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff was always very supportive and organized. They make sure volunteers know what to do and help them feel comfortable from the moment they arrive. If you need anything, there is always someone ready to assist.&nbsp;</p>
<p>They also help organize activities, visits to the community, and even trips to other places, which makes the experience very smooth. I always felt safe, respected, and well taken care of during my stay.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>The only thing I wish I had done differently is spending more time in the program each time I visit. The longer you stay, the more you understand the people and the culture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Every visit teaches me something new, and I always feel that there is more I could do to support the women. Time goes very fast when you are there, and leaving is always the hardest part.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day usually started with visiting the training center where the women were working. I would spend time talking with them, helping where needed, and sometimes sharing simple skills such as using the computer or organizing materials.&nbsp;</p>
<p>There was always time for conversation, laughter, and learning from each other. Later in the day, we might visit the community, attend meetings, or just sit together and share stories. Even simple days felt very meaningful.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773800307/images2/interviews/R5rIBDySooBTM3gTGCyrwnuJC6ubSkaZMokVsxMb.jpg" alt="a group of people sitting at a table studying or working on paperwork together"><div class="caption"><p>Teaching, mentoring, and sharing moments with the children and the community.</p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time, I enjoyed exploring the area and visiting different places around Kisumu and the lake region. The organization helped arrange trips to beautiful places like the Maasai Mara, the islands on Lake Victoria, and cultural sites in the community.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also enjoyed sitting with the women, listening to traditional songs, and watching the dancers perform. Even simple walks in the village or visiting the market were enjoyable moments.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>The accommodation was comfortable and safe, with everything needed for a pleasant stay. I liked that I could have my own space but also spend time with others in the main house. The environment was peaceful, and the internet and kitchen made it easy to feel at home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What I liked most was the feeling of being part of a family rather than staying in a hotel.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>Future participants should know that this program is about real community life. You need patience, respect, and an open mind. The women may not always speak perfect English, but they are kind, hardworking, and very welcoming.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you take time to listen and understand, you will have a wonderful experience. This is not luxury travel, it is a true cultural and human experience.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend Volunteer to Empower HIV-Affected Women in Tailoring to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would absolutely recommend this program. I have been involved with the organization for many years, and every visit reminds me why this work is important. The women are strong, the community is welcoming, and the organization is honest and well-organized.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If someone wants a real experience, not just tourism, this is the right place to come.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>Traveling abroad allows you to see the world in a different way. You learn that people can live very differently but still be happy, strong, and supportive of each other. It teaches patience, understanding, and respect for other cultures.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For me, traveling keeps my mind open and reminds me how important it is to stay connected with people everywhere.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773800308/images2/interviews/kDfYbIZjzOrBNvy0vB72FSBbUnnAYy9ZfTFwZ7D4.jpg" alt="a group of people smiling together for a photo in a community setting"><div class="caption"><p>Not just a photo, but a memory I carry in my heart.</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>Every time I return home, I carry the memories and lessons with me. The experience reminds me to appreciate simple things and to value community and friendship.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Seeing how people support each other despite challenges has changed the way I look at life. It keeps me grateful and motivates me to stay involved in helping others whenever I can.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel means more than visiting places. It means building relationships, learning from people, and sharing experiences.&nbsp;</p>
<p>When you travel with purpose, you come back with more understanding and respect for the world. For me, meaningful travel is when you feel connected to the people you meet and know that your presence made a positive difference.</p>


Margaret Smith

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Margaret Smith who participated in Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya  program.

Margaret Smith | Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya 

Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya  Alumni Interview with Margaret Smith

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>I have always believed that travel becomes more meaningful when it is connected to learning and contributing to communities. As a public health lecturer and researcher, I was interested in understanding how grassroots organizations work to empower women and improve health outcomes in developing communities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The opportunity to travel to Kenya and engage with a local program supporting women through skills training and community development inspired me greatly. I wanted to experience firsthand how community initiatives operate and how small efforts can create real change in people’s lives.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/kar-genocenter-for-hope-kenya rel="" target="_self" class="link">Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya</a>?</h3>
<p>I chose Kar Geno - Center for Hope because of its strong focus on women’s empowerment and community development. The <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/kar-genocenter-for-hope-kenya/programs/volunteer-to-empower-hiv-affected-women-in-tailoring-kisumu-198130 rel="" target="_self" class="link">program</a> works closely with local women who are learning tailoring and entrepreneurship skills to improve their livelihoods.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As someone working in public health, I appreciate initiatives that connect economic empowerment with health and social well-being. The organization’s grassroots approach and commitment to supporting vulnerable communities made it a meaningful place for me to contribute while learning more about local challenges and solutions.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773798071/images2/interviews/UI6DrEOMpcDmtmJwD9C4iyM2Fga2gUipNDpKGfyT.jpg" alt="three women fetching water from a stream"><div class="caption"><p>A simple walk to the stream, a deeper understanding of daily life.</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part of Kisumu?</h3>
<p>My favorite part about Kisumu was the warmth and friendliness of the people. The community is very welcoming, and people genuinely care about making guests feel comfortable and safe. What stood out most was the constant smiles on people’s faces, even as many navigate daily challenges with resilience and optimism.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Kisumu is also a beautiful lakeside city along Lake Victoria, which gives it a relaxed and scenic atmosphere. I especially enjoyed interacting with the women in the program, who were very cooperative and supportive of one another. Exploring the local streets and tasting the delicious street food was also a memorable part of the experience.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>What made this experience extraordinary was the opportunity to work directly with women who are determined to improve their lives through education and entrepreneurship. Supporting them with simple business skills such as basic mathematics, calculating profits, and discussing online marketing was very rewarding.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Beyond volunteering, exploring the region—visiting places like Maasai Mara, Mfangano Island, Kit Mikayi, and Lake Victoria—added a rich cultural and travel experience that made the entire journey both meaningful and unforgettable.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff was extremely supportive from the beginning of the program. They provided clear information about the activities and made sure volunteers understood how to contribute effectively.&nbsp;</p>
<p>They were always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and ensure that everyone felt comfortable and safe. Their dedication and passion for the community created a welcoming environment that allowed volunteers to integrate easily and feel part of the team.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773798072/images2/interviews/GRkff6SB1x2WSNUCqPGwuQTg6bM3FBxkz9kbONSp.jpg" alt="three women interacting together while tossing a ball indoors"><div class="caption"><p>Singing together, celebrating community and friendship.</p></div></div>
<p>If I could change one thing, I would have stayed longer. The experience was deeply rewarding, and the more time I spent interacting with the women and the community, the more I understood their stories and challenges.&nbsp;</p>
<p>A longer stay would have allowed me to contribute even more and build stronger relationships with the people involved in the program.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day began with breakfast and preparation for activities at the training center.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During the day, I worked alongside women participating in the tailoring and empowerment program. I helped them with basic arithmetic, understanding profit calculations, and discussing ideas such as selling products online. Sometimes I also helped organize materials or interacted with the children who came with their mothers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Evenings were more relaxed, allowing time to explore the local area, reflect on the day’s experiences, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere near Lake Victoria.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time, I enjoyed exploring the beautiful surroundings and cultural sites around Kisumu.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I visited the Maasai Mara, Mfangano Island, Kit Mikayi Rock, and the ancestral village of former U.S. President Barack Obama. I also spent time at Dunga Hill Camp enjoying live music and stunning sunsets over Lake Victoria.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Other activities included visiting the Kisumu Museum, taking boat rides on the lake, fishing with locals, and exploring local markets.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>I was fortunate to stay in a private studio that was comfortable and well-equipped. It had a kitchen where I could prepare my own meals and reliable Wi-Fi, which made it easy to stay connected and work when needed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The accommodation offered a good level of independence, which I appreciated. At the same time, there was also a main house with a shared dining area where volunteers could gather for meals together. Often, we would have dinner in the main dining room, which created a nice sense of community.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I liked having the flexibility to either cook for myself when I wanted a quiet evening or join others for shared meals and conversation.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773798072/images2/interviews/JhYtVdNAPitHu2aME8PvyCJWL5imR0BX7pQCXdYS.jpg" alt="a woman carrying a large container on her head"><div class="caption"><p>Trying the local way — walking a mile in their everyday life.</p></div></div>
<p>Future participants should know that English is not the first language for many of the women in the program, and some have had limited formal education. Because of this, communication works best when you speak slowly, clearly, and with patience. It is important to make sure everyone understands before moving on, and to be comfortable repeating explanations or answering questions several times if needed. With a little patience and flexibility, communication becomes much easier and more meaningful.&nbsp;</p>
<p>You may also notice that the local accent can be different, so taking time to listen carefully is helpful. If something is not clear, it is perfectly fine to ask someone to repeat or even write it down. Being patient, respectful, and supportive makes the interaction very positive and rewarding for everyone involved.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend Volunteer to Empower HIV-Affected Women in Tailoring to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would definitely recommend this program. Kar Geno – Center for Hope provides an authentic and meaningful volunteer experience where participants can directly engage with the community and support women working toward economic independence.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The organization is welcoming, the programs are impactful, and the cultural exchange makes the experience enriching both personally and professionally.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>As a senior public health lecturer, traveling abroad offers far more than simply visiting another place. It provides an opportunity to observe how health, social systems, and community structures work in different cultural contexts. Working directly with women in community programs allowed me to see how economic empowerment, education, and health awareness are closely connected.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Experiences like this broaden professional knowledge, strengthen global perspectives on public health, and highlight the importance of community-based solutions. Traveling and volunteering abroad also help build meaningful human connections and deepen empathy, making it possible to better understand the real challenges and resilience within communities around the world.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773797329/images2/interviews/alTETtiAq2SlrBEov3UKkybdHdKRGRh1B1n3mnav.jpg" alt="A woman and child smiling together for a photo "><div class="caption"><p>Together with the women and the next generation.</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>Now that I am back home, my time in Kenya has had a meaningful impact on both my personal and professional life. As a senior public health lecturer, the experience gave me deeper insight into how global public health challenges are addressed at the community level.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Working closely with women in the program helped me understand the strong connection between health, economic empowerment, education, and social support systems. It also reminded me how resilience and community cooperation play an important role in improving well-being.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This experience has enriched my teaching by allowing me to share real-world examples with my students about global health systems, community-based solutions, and the importance of culturally sensitive public health approaches.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel means going beyond simply visiting a place and truly engaging with the people, culture, and everyday realities of the community. For me, it involves learning from local experiences, sharing knowledge, and building genuine connections.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As someone working in public health, meaningful travel also means understanding how communities address health and social challenges in their own context. It is about listening, respecting cultural differences, and contributing in a way that supports local initiatives while gaining deeper insight into the interconnected nature of global communities.</p>


Linda Wells

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Linda Wells who participated in Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya  program.

Linda Wells | Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya  Alumni Interview

Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya  Alumni Interview with Linda Wells

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