What inspired you to go abroad?
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.
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.
Why did you choose Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya?
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 program and the women involved in it.
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.
Moments like this remind me why I keep coming back.
What was your favorite part about Kisumu?
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.
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.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
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.
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.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
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.
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.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
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.
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.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
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.
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.
Teaching, mentoring, and sharing moments with the children and the community.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
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.
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.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
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.
What I liked most was the feeling of being part of a family rather than staying in a hotel.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
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.
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.
Would you recommend Volunteer to Empower HIV-Affected Women in Tailoring to others? Why?
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.
If someone wants a real experience, not just tourism, this is the right place to come.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
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.
For me, traveling keeps my mind open and reminds me how important it is to stay connected with people everywhere.
Not just a photo, but a memory I carry in my heart.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
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.
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.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means more than visiting places. It means building relationships, learning from people, and sharing experiences.
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.
