Written by CorpsAfrica/Senegal Exchange Volunteer Mr. Endington Wa Kavuli

I want to share with you the incredible journey I embarked on as a volunteer in rural communities. It all began with my deep-rooted connection to village life, having grown up in a small village myself. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in economics, I set out to make a difference in vulnerable communities. Little did I know that this journey would shape me in unimaginable ways.

My first service was in Chikwawa and Mulanje districts in Malawi, where I found myself teaching at an orphanage. The children there captured my heart with their resilience and bright spirits. Determined to provide them with a better future, I immersed myself in their education, sharing knowledge and fostering a love for learning. Witnessing their thirst for knowledge and the joy they found in education ignited a fire within me.

But education alone wasn’t enough. We realized that the orphanage lacked proper sanitation facilities, hindering the children’s well-being and development. With the support of the community and CorpsAfrica, I initiated a water, sanitation, and hygiene project. We worked tirelessly to construct toilets and a clean, functional kitchen. The impact was immediate, as the children’s health improved, and they gained a sense of dignity and pride in their environment.

From there, my volunteering journey took me to the vibrant landscapes of Senegal in the Elinkine community where I embraced a new identity as Abdou. “Sa tuud bi ći Anglais dafa Méti”, this is what the community members used to say (meaning; your English name is hard). In this rural community, I had the honor of teaching kindergarten children. Every day, their infectious laughter and unwavering curiosity reminded me of the beauty and simplicity of life. Together, we embarked on a journey of exploration and learning, nurturing their young minds and encouraging their dreams to flourish.

However, my mission extended beyond the classroom. I recognized the immense potential in the women of the community and their untapped talents. In collaboration with local organizations and my fellow volunteers, l embarked on empowering women through sustainable income-generating activities. Through training and capacity-building, we opened doors to entrepreneurship, encouraging the women to explore their skills and creativity. Witnessing their transformation into confident, independent individuals was a profound testament to the power of empowerment.

These experiences have shaped my perspective on life, fostering a deep appreciation for the resilience and strength found within communities. The impact of our collective efforts has been tangible and profound. From the laughter-filled classrooms to the improved living conditions, I’ve witnessed lives being transformed and hope being reignited.

As I reflect on my journey, I am humbled by the lessons learned and the bonds formed. I stand in awe of the remarkable potential that lies within every individual, waiting to be nurtured and unleashed. It is a privilege to have been a part of these communities, and I will forever carry their stories within me.

I share this story with you, dear friends, not only to inspire but to ignite the belief that change is possible, even in the face of adversity and we can empower individuals, uplift communities, and create a world where every voice is heard and every dream is within reach.