My trip to Tanzania changed my outlook on life. For the longest time, I was yearning for an experience that would truly show me what I am meant to do in life and where my passions lie. The community of Cairo was so loving, hospitable, and kind. I felt more at home on this island than I do in my own house! I learned so much that still continues to build my character, and I am so thankful I went despite the stereotypes and misinformation I heard about the continent of Africa prior to my trip. If you are looking for an experience to change the way you look at the world, open your mind to a higher cultural understanding, and actually put money into something that benefits more than just yourself- go on a GIVE trip! Not only were the locals so amazing, but the other volunteers and GIVE staff will never fail to uplift you, support you, and validate your life goals even after your trip ends. Additional shout out to Green Paw Adventures- the phenomenal partner group that leads you on the most amazing safari and guides the Kili climbers to success!
If the cost is what worries you, keep in mind everything your money is going towards. Whether towards local businesses, the sustainable projects, or the fun excursions on your off days, all of the money you pay aside from your flights directly benefit the local communities. What a way to vote with your dollar!
Also, if you have the opportunity to hike Mt. Kilimanjaro...DO IT. I have learned so much about myself from this experience, and I came home with the most confidence- knowing I can do anything I put my mind to! I will forever be grateful for my first GIVE trip to Tanzania, I can't wait to join GIVE for more!
If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
During my trip (as it was my first international trip for an extended period of time AND during Covid), I did experience a lot of anxiety during my arrival and initial culture shocks. If I could do this trip all over again, I would encourage myself to relax more and take it all in. Culture shock is normal, and even returning home after this experience will give you a new kind of culture shock upon realizing how we live in our own culture. However, I let my anxiety inhibit some of the activities. For example, one activity is bracelet braiding with some of the local women in the community. The woman I was paired with was much older, and she did not speak any English. I was doing a poor job on my bracelet, and I stressed that she would become frustrated with me for not understanding what she was teaching me. I never finished my bracelet, and days later I was told the woman was very sad I did not continue with her. I realized in that moment the mistake I had made, and how I should have stayed and overcame the language barrier. There are other times I had become overwhelmed with all of the people around, and all of the new things to experience. I do have introverted tendencies sometimes, and I took many opportunities to take time to myself. While I think this is important to do, I also wish I pushed myself more to be out of my comfort zone and experience as much as I could. If you are a person who struggles with the same, I encourage you to take personal time during less busy hours- like in the morning to watch the sunrise alone on the beach, or before bed journaling your feelings and experience. I also encourage you to utilize your guides! They are trained and have seen it all, they will give you the best advice and support you every step of the way! GIVE is an organization that has a plan, a backup plan, another back up plan, and another and another. The safety and wellbeing of their volunteers is one of their first priorities, so don't get in your head!
