Volunteer Stories Archives

Volunteer Stories

Explore stories of service, connection, and transformation from CorpsAfrica Volunteers across the continent.

L`apprenant devenu enseignant – “The Learner Who Became a Teacher”

Driven by the desire to serve his country through community development, he stepped out of his comfort zone to learn and grow in the heart of Senegal. He was sent to a village called Gourel...

Unveiling Hidden Gems: My Host Community of Creative Youth and Children

Imagine a 9-year-old weaving magic with tiny hands, crafting delicate bead masterpieces that rival seasoned artisans. Welcome to my remarkable host community, where talent abounds, resilience inspires, and creativity knows no bounds. Over my two-month...

Language, the Almighty Barrier

When you are a boy growing up in one of the urban cities in Malawi, everything is easier because the language is diluted to fit everybody. We have the working class with their language, the...

The Cost of Belonging: Giving Back

Muhammad Ali once said, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” Embarking on my journey as a CorpsAfrica Volunteer on October 4, 2024, has been an experience beyond...

Lessons From the Field

Not once did I imagine things would be this tough. I have many reasons to call it quits. Does one have to go through all of this? Fighting parasites all night and spending the entire...

Coping with Cultural Shock

You know in the movies (the cliche ones), where a girl finally leaves home, to probably go to college in a different state and be the independent woman that she has always wanted to be?...

Stepping Into Service: My First Weeks as a CorpsAfrica Volunteer

The first day I arrived in the community as a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, I was filled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The road to Rulindo was familiar yet different; I was not just passing...

Locals Helping Locals

In the heart of Ghana’s Kumbungu District lies Dnyo-Kpalgu, a vibrant community where tradition meets opportunity. As a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, my journey here is not just about service—it’s about integration and understanding. Embracing the spirit...

Don’t Get Stuck in the Panic Zone

It has been two months since I joined my community. This time has largely been about bonding with community members by learning from and sharing knowledge and skills with them. I’ve participated in activities such...

Trees for tomorrow; how our efforts can rebuild forests

Trees for tomorrow. A common phrase yet one that calls for intentionality. With our collective efforts we can rebuild forests. Yet rebuilding forests is not just about planting trees. It is about restoring the ecosystems....