From the initial airport pickup, to the final airport drop-off, my experience within Kenya was extremely smooth, yet life-changing. I learned more in two weeks in Kenya, than I had in several years in Canada. 
Program Volunteer Kenya
Project: Volunteer in the Children's Home/Orphanages in Kenya
I learned more in two weeks in Kenya, than I had in several years in Canada.
From the initial airport pickup, to the final airport drop-off, my experience within Kenya was extremely smooth, yet life-changing. I learned more in two weeks in Kenya, than I had in several years in Canada. Seeing and submerging myself in a culture that I was completely oblivious to gave me a renewed love for volunteering, travelling, and the comforting lifestyle that awaited me back home in Canada.
I sincerely believe that the kids could feel my love for them, and the experience was worthwhile for all parties involved.
Monicah and Rafael, the Nairobi uVolunteer contacts, were extremely welcoming and made me feel at home extremely quickly. During the orientation they gave me a feel for the city- from currency to places of interest, I felt comfortable within my new environment. They gave me their phone numbers and told me to call at anytime. I initially had issues regarding my traveller’s checks and foreign money, but these issues can be resolved at “the Junction” for any future volunteer.
For my volunteer experience, I was working with street boys at the RAHA Kids Centre. I was extremely fortunate to be working with a fellow Torontonian. This gave me an immediate friend, and someone who could understand my lifestyle back home. The environment within RAHA, and the Coptic organization in general, was extremely welcoming and positive. Kero, Nadir, and Grace were my main points of contact within the volunteer group, and they made my stay very comfortable and enjoyable- not to mention hilarious! I had an amazing time working with the children. To see them come from the streets and still have such a vibrant and positive attitude was truly amazing! Although my stay was only two weeks, and the educational impact I had was admittedly minimal, I sincerely believe that the kids could feel my love for them, and the experience was worthwhile for all parties involved.
Additional experiences within Kenya included the Maasai Mara safari, visiting local malls, spending a night on the town, and just getting a general feel for the environment. I was somewhat timid at the beginning because the environment is extremely different from what I was accustomed to, but by the end I was walking the streets and even taking the odd matatu ride! By the end of my stay I felt as though I “fit in” and I was comfortable getting to where I needed to go.
In conclusion, my volunteer experience was life changing. Although the venture put me into financial debt, the experience will undoubtedly pay dividends in the future with the wealth of knowledge and life experience that I have gained. I wish to thank all parties involved- Rebecca, Monicah, Rafael, Kero, Nadir, Grace, the Coptic community, and everyone who played any part in my experience. I returned to my home country renewed, refreshed, and with a regained zest for life. I am very glad I took this opportunity when I did.
Kyle Lynch
