What I learnt in Kenya - Crewe reflects on his three months volutneering abroad

On our last day we went out to a fantastic restaurant called Sails to celebrate and everyone chowed down, especially the boys who had two servings of brownies and ice cream for desert each. It was terrible to say goodbye after being with each other for so long and many of us have already made plans to meet each other again soon.

When I deceided I wanted to volunteer in Africa (this seems like years and years ago), I expected simply to work hard, be fed and have a place to sleep. I don't think any of us ever anticipated how many new friends we would make, or how close we would grow in three months. This trip has given everyone a chance to make a small difference in a small community in Kenya, to experience a new culture, to make lifelong friends and find our own places in a very unique and dynamic group, from many different social backgrounds and nationalities.

I can happily say that we all took these opportunities. Not only did I get to know people from Holland, America, China, Scotland, Wales and England, I've also made great friends who I can't wait to see back in Australia and I know I have made my own effort, however small or insignificant it might seem, to help Kenyan families in need.

When I look back on what we've done, from the weeks of cement mixing, roofing and building in Muhaka, to conservation in Kaya and all the other smaller projects, our achievements feel so much more valuable because we won them together, overcoming practical and personal obstacles in the way. I don't think I'll ever be able to explain to my mates back home how much this time in Muhaka has meant to me, or how much I have enjoyed working and living with everyone at camp.

Crewe

Are you interested in doing your gap year in Africa? What about volunteering in Kenya or Tanzania? Antipodeans Abroad are specialists in gap year ideas and programs for young Australian and New Zealand students. Find out more at www.antipdoeans.com.au