What inspired you to travel abroad?
It's my nature—I like helping people and spending time with kids and travel as well.
Why did you choose Love Volunteers?
The program had all I needed—working with kids and teaching them. Love Volunteers was the best option because they provide many destinations; their website was helpful and full of details that any volunteer needs to know before applying.
Ahmed and Love Volunteers participants
What was your favorite part about Cherkasy, Ukraine?
Ukraine is a great country, rich in its culture and traditions. Cherkasy is a small and quiet city. I liked it because it has no tourists, so everyone speaks the local language and everything is written in Ukrainian. Therefore, I had a good chance to learn some Ukrainian words and phrases and practice the language.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The time I chose was perfect; I arrived in December and it was snowing. For me, it was the first time to see snow! In general, the program and the location were perfect and everyone was helping me to make the most of my trip. Another thing—I had a chance to visit a school in the countryside of Cherkasy and meet the teachers and students for two days.
How did the local staff support you throughout your program?
My coordinator was really helpful even before the program started. He helped me arrange everything. The local staff in the orphanage were friendly and helpful as well, even though we were not speaking the same language. However, I felt that they were doing their best to support me during my volunteering trip.
Working with children was a highlight for Ahmed during his time in Cherkasy
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I cannot think of anything I would’ve done differently, but before the program starts, I suggest learning more Ukrainian words and phrases, and preparing more activities for the kids.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
I was working in an orphanage where the kids go to school during weekdays, so a typical day looked like this: I would wake up around 6 am, and have a shower and breakfast and leave home at about 8 am. I would catch the bus to downtown and go to a cafe, where I would start preparing and organising activities for the kids. I wrote and printed some lessons, and sometimes I bought some supporting materials and presents. Then around 12 pm, I would go to the orphanage and start working with the kids until their lunch and nap times. After, I would go home to have lunch and rest a bit. After that I would return to the orphanage at 4:30 pm and play with the kids until 7 pm, when I would catch the bus and return home for the second time. I would have dinner with my host, contact my family and friends, and write in my diary. Then I would go to bed about 10 pm.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
Sightseeing, reading, writing, and learning the Ukrainian language.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I lived with a host lady that the organisation arranged for me. She was so kind and the location of the house was very convenient.
Ahmed visiting a school in the countryside of Cherkasy, Ukraine
What is one thing every future participant should know about Love Volunteers before their program begins?
Learning some Ukrainian phrases and words is important; also following the coordinator’s advice is recommended.
Would you recommend Love Volunteers’ Orphanage Program in Ukraine to others? Why?
Of course! It is the best thing I've ever done in my life so far, and my life has changed for the better.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
Learning new languages and exploring new cultures.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I appreciate being able to see my family more, and I feel the real importance of time and health.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To leave a positive impact and to put smiles on people's faces—people whom you don't know and you will never see again.
