“Volunteerism is not for the faint-hearted.” This quote by Arthur Nkosi has never struck a chord with me more deeply than it does now. My journey transitioning from CorpsAfrica/Malawi to CorpsAfrica/Senegal has been an unforgettable roller coaster ride, filled with the excitement of new experiences and the challenges of stepping into the unknown. Imagine leaving behind everything familiar, stepping out of your comfort zone, and uprooting and immersing yourself in a place where no one speaks your language, and you can barely speak theirs. Yet, this leap into the unknown has gifted me with some of the most thrilling learning experiences of my life.
Living in Senegal has been nothing short of an adventure. From mastering the art of cooking the famous Ceebu Jen and crafting the delicate daq kar juice, every moment has been a chance to submerge me in the rich fabric of Senegalese culture. The Tajabone, ngente ceremonies, with their mesmerizing artistry dance, have been a highlight of my cultural education. But what stands out the most is the warmth and hospitality of Senegalese people.
My host family in Senegal welcomed me as one of their own, and despite the language barrier, we found ways to communicate, whether through expressive body language or the trusty help of Google Translate. If you’ve never felt the warmth of Senegalese hospitality, known as “teranga,” you should meet my host family. My host family embodies it in every sense, providing me with a home away from home.
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. I’ve had to adapt quickly, embracing the tools technology offers. My language and cultural facilitator, Pape Sanou, has been an essential part of my journey, not just because he reminds me of Uncle Malani (my Malawian Uncle), but because he’s been a constant source of support. His enthusiasm for teaching us Wolof, the local language, has paid off “Bess bu nekk, damay jangi wolof, meun naa waxe ak degg Wolof. Loolutax kontaan naa fi”. His curiosity about our cultures and his dedication to sharing his own has created a rich and conducive learning environment.
Embarking on this journey with my fellow Malawian friends Memory, James, and Bertha has been a source of incredible strength and support. We’ve faced our challenges together, always encouraging one another and finding ways to navigate through the tough times. Meeting our counterparts from various countries has been just as remarkable, it’s like we’ve known each other our whole lives. We’ve bonded deeply, helping each other in ways that have touched my heart. Their commitment, dedication, and unwavering sense of service inspire me every day. I am truly excited about the journey ahead and all that we can achieve, both individually and as a group.