Read about Pernilles experience at Eco Moyo, she stayed with us for a month and made a huge impression on both kids and teachers!
“From the start of February to the start of March, I was allowed to volunteer at Eco Moyo. It was a culture shock to go from cold Norway to Kenya, but the children welcomed me with open arms from the very first second. Although they thought I looked strange and was pale as a ghost, having not seen the sun for several months in Finnmark, all it took was a smile for them to come running. Arriving at Eco Moyo for the first time was very special. In the middle of the bush lies a colorful and vibrant school. To get to the school, you drive on roads that you would never think you could drive on back home in Norway, but it's no problem for the locals.
During the four weeks I spent at the school, I did many different things and had various tasks. One nice thing about Eco Moyo is that they want you to contribute with something you know or are interested in. Whether you have experience with a sport, have studied, or have other relevant, useful, or fun experience for the children.
I had classes and lessons where we used videos and screens, mainly English or gym. I supported teacher Violet with the "Leap Lab," where students learn math and English in ways other than the standard classroom format. I introduced, taught, and played handball with the children. I participated in the activities and clubs Eco Moyo organizes, including football in the afternoon, and running, art, and taekwondo clubs. Additionally, and just as importantly, I spent time with, played with, and gave attention to the children. Just a little wave or smile is enough for them to burst into laughter or light up and give you a big smile back.As a volunteer, I quickly realized how extremely lucky I was to be allowed to come to Eco Moyo. Although I'm not entirely objective, I think Eco Moyo is one of the best organizations to volunteer for if you want to contribute to a school. The reason is that the project is extremely positive and beneficial for the children in Dzunguni. It is professional, and the atmosphere with the children is unique. If it weren't for Eco Moyo providing free schooling, very few of the students would be attending other schools. The work Eco Moyo does ensures that students learn to speak and write both English and Kiswahili, learn math, science, and a wealth of knowledge that forms the foundation and makes further education possible after Eco Moyo. Students also learn other necessary knowledge about hygiene and health.
Personally, the stay was a fantastic experience and learning opportunity. I wanted to contribute as a volunteer and get to know African culture and nature. Although the stay is not about self-realization, there are many things I learned from the children, the school, and the village. I got to know wonderful people who took me in warmly and taught me a lot about Kenyan culture and the Swahili language. I gained insight into life in the village and got to accompany one of the students home to help collect firewood and fetch water. By working at a school, you gain insight into the local community in a unique way.
Another experience I am very grateful to have had is the children's gratitude for the little things. They are the most vibrant children I have ever met, despite life's many challenges. Seeing how they share and take turns with football shoes because there aren't enough for everyone, are patient with each other, and their creative ability to, for example, make improvised guitars or balls out of what we consider trash in Norway, has been very inspiring. There is so much we can learn from these children!
I have fallen in love with both the school and Kenya, and I highly recommend volunteering at Eco Moyo. It is a good organization to support, where the money goes directly to the children and their educational opportunities." - Pernille
