Volunteering in a community that is far from my home has been a life-changing experience. As a Volunteer, integration into the local culture is vital—not just for my growth but also for building trust, creating friendships, and gaining a deeper understanding of the people around me. 

Since I began my Volunteer service here, I’ve made it a point to take part in the daily activities of the community. Whether it’s helping with chores or simply chatting with the locals, integrating into the community has been essential for building trust and understanding.

Discovering a Shared Passion:
For me, one unexpected bridge to integration has been a hobby I picked up a few years ago: crocheting. A few years ago, I fell in love with crocheting. I was drawn to how such a simple skill could create intricate and beautiful patterns. Little did I know that this hobby would play a pivotal role in helping me connect with the women in this rural community.

When I arrived, I quickly learned that crocheting was a skill deeply rooted in the lives of many women here. It’s something they’ve been doing for years, especially when it comes to making beautiful baskets. 

Crocheting as a Cultural Bridge:
After their daily work, many of these women gather at the market to crochet while they catch up with each other. I was delighted to find that I could join them in this activity. One of the most exciting aspects of this shared hobby has been exchanging crochet patterns and skills. While they taught me their crochet techniques, they were more than eager to learn my techniques.

By sitting down with them and learning from one another, I was able to form connections that went beyond simple greetings. Crocheting provided the perfect opportunity for us to have meaningful conversations, share stories, and learn about each other’s lives. It felt like a place where I truly belonged—a home away from home.

More Than Just a Hobby:
For these women, crocheting isn’t just a pastime—it’s a source of income. While doing their daily chores, like grazing livestock, you can often spot them with crochet baskets tucked into their bags. They crochet while out in the fields, creating items that will eventually be sold at the market.  As they teach me their patterns, I feel grateful for the opportunity to learn from such skilled artisans.

Their dedication to the craft is truly inspiring, despite the challenges these women face of inconsistent income from the baskets as a result of the seasonal market and inadequate market for their products. I am continually amazed by their resilience and creativity. 

As I continue my volunteer work, I’m excited to see where this journey will take us as a community. Every day is a chance to learn something new, not only about crocheting but also about the strength, resilience, and creativity of the people. The experience has not only helped me integrate into the community but has also given me a sense of belonging and purpose that I never anticipated. As I continue my service, I look forward to creating more meaningful connections with the community.