An extraordinary group of young people and adults from Birmingham, through the Core Education Trust, have just left me following their journey in Africa, and I feel an equal intense sense of happiness and sadness. Happiness after having led them through their journey, ensuring they were safe during each day’s activities, and inspired and guided by some of the most professional and experienced people that southern Africa has to offer; and sadness, as their departure marks the end of a meaningful and transformative shared experience that created strong emotional bonds, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Their journey was a profound opportunity for personal growth through an amazing weeklong community assistance project at Shiyane High School at Rorke’s Drift, wildlife conservation education walking trails in the bush, and cultural awareness. Initially faced with the challenge of adapting to a new environment, the students and adults quickly found common ground with the local children as they painted classrooms, and took pride in the fact that their trip had funded a new generator for the school for when the power is out, new electrics for the entire school proving bright classrooms and enabling evening classes, renovated and painted roofs for the entire school, a renovated bore hole to provide clean drinking water, eye test and glasses for children with poor eyesight, and freshly painted classrooms and new white boards. The hard work, joy and sense of accomplishment the group felt during this community assistance project instilled a deep sense of purpose and connection.
At nearby wildlife conservancies, the group walked amongst African wildlife, learning about the importance of protecting vulnerable and endangered species and maintaining biodiversity. Engaging in activities such as tracking animals, and studying behaviour, they developed a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance of nature and humans. This experience contrasted sharply with their lives at home, deepening their understanding of life in Africa, and of how capable they are physically, emotionally, intellectually, and socially.
Early mornings sitting quietly by the river, and evening at the campfire became an important part of the journey, where the group shared their thoughts, feelings and emotions. These sessions allowed for sitting peacefully or speaking openly in a safe space, which is so important for emotional growth, self-esteem, and self-awareness.
By the end of the venture, this group from Birmingham had clearly grown significantly in empathy, resilience, and awareness. The trip broadened their horizons, challenged preconceptions, helped them understand how capable they are, and inspired a passion for service to others and awareness of nature conservation which was the ethos of leaders Adrian Packer, Jo Tyler, and Delroy Tucker,
Returning home, they carry with them memories of an incredible journey, and a commitment to positively impacting communities and nature. The experience underscored the profound value of giving, learning, and connecting with others, shaping their futures and reminding them of the importance of empathy and global citizenship.
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