My experience in Kenya was absolutely amazing and perfect. I wouldn’t change anything for this experience enhanced my personal growth as a future public health professional with the added bonus of simultaneously learning about an entirely new culture. Our host family, the Kiche’s were the upmost hospitable individuals whom we owe a great deal to for introducing the authentic Kenyan lifestyle to us. Hakuna matata!
The sole purpose of our time spent in Oyugis was to implement a community outreach program during the Society Empowerment Project football tournament. It had gone well overall and we received positive feedback from the community. Coaches along with a number of local individuals were very grateful for the youth engagement through the WASH program. The junior SEP girls appeared to be optimistic in taking on the responsibility Festus, the executive director of SEP, had organized for them. Door to door canvassing in reinforcing basic life skills is a moral responsibility that was acknowledged when speaking to Evelyn and Cynthia (two SEP members). The local people deeply care for their friends and family, therefore they recognize the need to spread awareness on the importance of hand washing and water purification to reduce the number of illnesses and death that can occur within the community. I will be keeping contact with those currently living in Oyugis for the progress being made in SEP.
Traveling as a career lifestyle is what I’ve always aspired for, and travel2change has helped me realize this dream. From my gained experiences and increased cultural competencies in Kenya, I know for certain that I will pursue a career in global public health. This is why I believe travel2change is a such a truly great organization. It assists individuals in pursuit of their dreams of traveling to establish something meaningful in the world. Travelers who aspire to change will get an opportunity to do so. While learning a great deal and overcoming challenges, travelers and host communities will be beyond fulfilled with the concluding finale of each project realized, just as I am. I want to greatly thank the Oyugis community and travel2change for all that I’ve learned and for what we’ve accomplished.
