“I’ve grown very fond of everyone” – Vincent talks about his volunteering experience

I’ve been back in Germany for about a month now and have had time to reflect more fully on my experiences and impressions. My time there was truly wonderful, and I’ve grown very fond of everyone!

I got the feeling that the kids are always really happy when new people or volunteers arrive, which naturally made my start there much easier. It’s really quite remarkable how cheerful everyone is all day long; you don’t see that at all in Germany.

Together we shared many lovely moments: for example, we went to the beach together, played football countless times and laughed a lot. Of course, sometimes I had to step in when the children were too loud or cheeky – especially during less exciting tasks like doing homework or washing up. But that’s just part of the job.

Basically, everyone here is really much better off than the kids outside the Village, which I find truly remarkable. The fact that almost all of them can attend excellent schools and enjoy a carefree childhood in so many ways makes me happy.

Most days, after breakfast, I would go to the hostel with Uncle Festus and work there for the duration of my stay. The hostel was painted inside and out, fences were sanded down and repainted, and bricks were made for another planned house.

Of course, we also took short breaks in between, during which I could spend time with the children. During the week it was usually quiet, so I could work undisturbed.

Charlotte, who was also there as a volunteer, and I also tried to organise as many activities as possible with the children – for example, we baked cookies several times or went on trips to the beach, which everyone really enjoyed. Joint dance evenings were also a regular part of the daily programme. After homework, we’d play football, basketball or go on the swings – free time had to be earned first!

All in all, I find it truly admirable what a great project UPENDO is, and I’m sure I’ll be back in the future.