Over the years, both my work and education have provided me with ample opportunities to see much of the world but never in the same context as my time here in Africa. In truth, as a tourist and a backpacker travelling through places I rarely had the chance to do much more than “see the sights” and never felt I was actually helping the people I encountered. My time volunteering in West Africa has changed that: I’ve been able to contribute my personal expertise, knowledge, skills and labour with those in one of the poorest parts of the world.
I’ve probably experienced just about every emotion since I arrived – both good and bad. I’ve seen incredibly uplifting sights and those which have left me awake at night searching for answers. At times I’ve felt very proud of my achievements, and at other times deeply frustrated that I couldn’t do more. Yes, you will quickly come to grips with the realization that you are not going to single-handedly change the world in one trip; yet, by joining an aid effort you will make a positive impact in a way that buying wristbands and donating money from the comfort of your couch never could.
I assure you that if you’re considering donating your skills to a developing nation, your efforts and time abroad will do far more than add “overseas work experience” to your CV. To be sure, this opportunity greatly enhanced both the depth of my understanding about development issues and helped me to gain the incomparable first-hand experience of working in the field. It will also provide you with a real opportunity to get yourself out of your comfort zone – a new job, new culture, new living arrangements, new colleagues, new support network and, perhaps, a foreign language. Further, by working alongside locals in your discipline and allowing them to take part in capacity-building exercises (where you train local people in the skills that you possess) you can assist them in becoming self-sufficient. This approach of sharing skills, rather than simply money or things, is only possible if we are willing to make the real 'in the flesh' commitment that volunteering requires.
Yes, there will be frustrations, from the trivial to the immeasurable: getting used to “showering” with a bucket; having to negotiate for the majority of your purchases; or trying to understand how necessary medical treatment could be denied to someone by reason of ‘lack of funds’. But there will be unexpected charms as well: the excitement of your fist taxi-moto ride; the unexpected conversation with a local at the always busy Grand Marché; and the smiles, waves and chants of “Yovo” [white person] by children everywhere you go. Ultimately, in choosing to volunteer in Africa, not only will you make a very unique contribution to improving one of the world’s most underdeveloped regions, but you will also gain an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
