What inspired you to travel abroad?
I had traveled quite a bit but I wanted to go somewhere and truly immerse myself into a different country, see a new way of life that wasn't in a book. And I wanted it to be somewhere fairly off the grid.
Why did you choose Love Volunteers?
There were many programs out there that offered a similar experience...but I chose Love Volunteers for their constant support, the options of places to go and things one can do, and their transparency regarding volunteering and what you're doing for the communities.
Jacob seeing his first herd of elephants in Botswana
What was your favorite part about Zambia?
I don't know where to begin! Paula, who runs the NGO in Zambia, is like a mom to all of her volunteers and learning what she does on a daily basis was awe-inspiring. And then there's the kids! Whether it was spending a day at the school or working on the mud huts, kids from the village were always around and curious. We played everyday and it really just shows you what is important in life.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Feeling like I gained a new family. Meeting other volunteers that are from all over the world searching for the same thing you are. We still speak to this day. And having some of the local guys tell me I am always welcome in their village. You can't replace that. And my weekend trip to Botswana.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
They were everything! Paula and Matt do so much! I had no idea how much goes into this before I met them, and I couldn't have done it without them.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I would have stayed longer. I was there for a month, and I wish I had gone for two or three.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
I would wake up around 6 for breakfast—cereal and coffee usually. Around 7:30 we'd load up and go to the site of the recent mud hut being built. Depending on where they were in the process, some days were strictly doing mud-filling and mixing, some days were digging and setting posts. We would work till lunch and have a nice break...then go back and work for a couple more hours
In Zambia you had the option to mix your days up. You could (and should) break up your week and work at the elementary school, or spend a day at the old folks’ home. This is a must should you find yourself in Mwandi. Once you're done with work you have free time to wonder through town, go the the Zambezi river, and treat it as down time. We would often clean up and take walks, speak with locals, and learn about each other’s cultures. Then we would have dinner at 6 and play cards or read until bed. This part of it was quite relaxing. You didn't have to worry about the constant stresses I'm so used to in the States. It was a simple but full day.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
I went to Botswana on Safari for a weekend and it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. The wildlife in Chobi are literally roaming the main road...when I first arrived there was a herd of elephants just casually off the side of the road eating.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
We stayed on the compound built by Paula and Matt, in huts with bunk beds and mosquito nets. I was prepared for tent living to be honest, so this was an upgrade in my mind! Very comfy and very safe.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Paula can't eat cheese and you should bring her some vegan cheese if you have access.
Would you recommend Love Volunteers to others? Why?
Absolutely! It was life changing for me and I know it will be for anyone else.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
You educate yourself on another culture by seeing it and being in it, and you can take this knowledge and pass it on. You also appreciate your own in a different way.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I have found myself craving to do more of this in my life. I have already volunteered in some programs in New York and am looking to get back overseas this year.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Being conscientious about where you are going and the impact you can have on a people/place. Especially if you are coming from a first world country and going into a third world country. Be respectful of someone else's way of life no matter how different it is.
