Been There, Done That...
Sophie Meleif: volunteered with Students Partnership Worldwide in Zambia 2005
"Mulishani! Yes, I'm starting with Bemba, the most common local language in this area. But in our training group alone, there are over a dozen different ethnic groups, and our fellow Zambian volunteers speak an average of four each. It makes one somewhat jealous.
We arrived finally, our first glimpses of an open wide Africa below us, as the sun was rising. We were met at the airport by an ex volunteer who never left! The greatest thing about being in public as a tourist is being the attraction. People are curious, smile at you with all teeth from dark faces. Kids look at you with amazement and try to touch you out of curiosity.
Things are simple here, people walk everywhere and are listless, taking there time to do everything. We learned to eat what they served us, nsima - a porridge of cornmeal that you roll in your hand to eat with vegetables or meat or beans. I think we've almost mastered the technique!
I've made friends, my roommate Lengue and others with names I can't spell just yet. It's great talking to them: we have sessions on HIV/AIDs and SPW all day, as well as cultural lessons and practical skills. In the evenings we have self-created entertainment, with songs, skits, and whatever you can think of."
Further Information
SPW is a non-profit organisation working in Africa and Asia. We are looking for volunteers (aged 18-28) to work at grassroots level. Living and working in partnership with young African and Asian volunteers, you will share knowledge, experience & ideas to support rural communities in their response to health and environmental issues affecting their lives. It isn't about teaching overseas in your GAP year. It IS about making a difference; empowering youth in developing countries to take control of their own lives and destiny.
Students Partnership Worldwide
17 Dean's Yard
London SW1P 3PB
0207 222 0138
spwuk@gn.apc.org
www.spw.org
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