PROGRAM: UniBreak
PROJECT: Nursing, Teaching & Swimming Coaching
WRITTEN BY: Brooke Salems
Our final week in Hithadhoo! We approached this week with mixed emotions, as it dawned on us that we would soon be saying our goodbyes. We were all eager to make the most of our last few days in our island paradise.
After a relaxing weekend, we were back into the swing of teaching and nursing. Our week was spent giving back to the community by finishing the school library renovations, running healthcare workshops for the local nurses, teachers and students, and donating medical supplies to the local clinics and hospital. Both the school and the hospital held a small party for the teaching and nursing students as a way of saying thank you and farewell. It is so lovely to know that our small amount of time has had such a large impact on their lives.
Reflecting on our time here, we realise all the amazing opportunities we have had. Snorkelling in the crystal clear water with fish and sea turtles, exploring uninhabited islands in the middle of the Addu Atoll, living the Maldivian lifestyle – tasting the different food and playing with the local children, redecorating the children’s library and turning it into a garden wonderland, witnessing natural births and caesarean sections at the hospital and walking out of our resort villas onto private beaches are all experiences that we would not have been able to do at home!
All of these amazing experiences would not have been possible without the kindness of the Maldivian locals and although there are so many people we would like to thank, these few are the ones who have made it the most memorable adventure for us all!
Thank you to the staff at the school and the hospital that we worked at for welcoming us into your workplace, sharing your knowledge with us and inviting us to be involved in your team over the past month. To Bonda and Captain, thank you for taking us on countless fishing trips to show us around your homeland. I don’t think any of us will ever forget the crystal clear water and the amazing sea life!
To our wonderful housekeeper, thanks for keeping us safe and making sure everything was always perfect at the guesthouse. And finally, our in-country partners… there are no words to say how truly grateful we are for all you have done for us. You have been our Maldivian parents, supporting and encouraging us, and helping us to immerse into your culture. You have provided us with so many wonderful opportunities which will always be remembered. We wish you all the best in life – you deserve it!
To anyone considering a UniBreak trip… just do it! It has been the most incredible experience for us, and we have all made memories and friends that will last a lifetime.
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