Volunteer in Women's Education in Tanzania

I am Roy from Costa Rica. My volunteering in Tanzania is one of the best experience in my life. I left my country full of fears but once I get Tanzania the TVE made me feel like home. During the project with HIV program, I discovered that I am so fortunate of what I have and how I am in my country and that taught me to say thanks everyday. The experience of living in Tanzania gave me the opportunity to reach my dream about being in Africa and now I can say that I really lived the best spirit of Africa, walking their particular streets, eating amazing street food, doing a Safari in Serengeti and receiving the best of this lovely people. If I would have the opportunity to repeat this experience again, I wouldn't think it twice, for sure. I am close to go back home, but the person that left the country is not the same that is coming back, having in my heart lots of fun, lovely moments, more than 1000 photos and thousands of stories to share with family and friends. Thanks IVHQ for joining to the trip of my life.

Before going to my placement, Lifted Strong, I thought I would only provide health education to women. There was so much more for me to do than teach! Although I was only there for a week, I was able to work on a project with a nursing student which may have a large impact on the organization. Whether you're in the health care field, business, media and marketing, planning and implementation, or general education, there's something for everyone. The organization began earlier this year, and volunteers are helping the founders, and the mamas who are in the program, build a solid foundation. There really is something for everyone, and the mamas make sure you know that even the small things you do matter. Great opportunity for people who are open-minded, self-motivated, and have a passion to serve others.

Volunteering with the women at Lifted Strong was emotional and completely eye opening. All of the women we were helping had beautiful hearts and were so generous and grateful, if not the most generous and grateful people I have ever met. Once you meet and interact with these women, you can’t forget them. It really puts your life into perspective when you hear all that these women have gone through and you see how strong and beautiful they are after everything. I would definitely recommend this placement to other volunteers, especially if they are interested in helping women work towards successful futures where they can support themselves and become self-sustainable. It was amazing. It’s hard to leave by the end of your trip, but the women there are always open to volunteers returning.