Written by CorpsAfrica/Malawi Volunteer Ms. Tiyamike Makuluni
As a young girl from Lilongwe my hometown and who just graduated from college, joining CorpsAfrica Malawi marked not just my initiation into the workforce but a profound cultural and mind shift. Assigned to serve in Mulanje, a place far from the familiarity of my home, I found myself stepping into a whole new world. The first chapter of my Mulanje experience unfolded as I was welcomed by my host family, headed by the Group Village Headwoman, a sight that inspired me deeply. Witnessing a woman taking on significant leadership roles in the community set the tone for my journey, making me realize the transformative power of strong, capable women.
Transitioning from living with my host family to staying alone was a significant shift, exposing me to the challenges faced by community members. From the hurdles of blending into a culture vastly different from mine to dealing with instances of theft, and occasionally being underestimated as a young female Volunteer, I encountered obstacles that tested my resilience. Yet, this did not deter me.
Drawing strength from the experiences shared during the CorpsAfrica’s intensive 6-week Pre-Service Training, experiences from fellow Volunteers, and the wisdom imparted by my host family, I pressed on. The encouraging advice and shared stories became my guiding light, fueling my determination to overcome the challenges that came my way.
My role extended beyond personal growth; I embraced opportunities to contribute to the community through various projects. Volunteering to teach at nursery and secondary schools, I became a source of inspiration for other young girls in the community. Empowering them through education became a mission close to my heart. Engaging with the youth and other vulnerable communities, I have led environmentally and economically sustainable activities such as tree planting, community gardens, and briquette making. These initiatives fostered community development and served as a testament to the transformative impact that small actions can have on a large scale.
Working within a community of over 6000 people has been challenging and empowering. The courage I have gained from navigating these experiences has reinforced my belief in the potential for positive change, one small step at a time. As my journey with CorpsAfrica unfolds, I am not just contributing to community development but growing into a resilient and empowered individual, ready to face the unknown with newfound strength and determination.
