Long story short. These were some of the very greatest weeks in my life. Yes, life has a lot of great stories and experiences. However, this chapter, this whole experience is right at top of the list. And quite frankly, unexpectedly.
But how did this start? As always in life, there’s a personal development and there are coincidences. There are decisions that turn into a game changer. And this is what happened to me. It’s a game changer.
I knew I wanted to take a time out. And I wanted to do something meaningful. After a trip to Vietnam, the first longer travel since Corona, I wanted to do something completely different. While brainstorming with manager about what to do and how to manage a longer tine out legally, we coincidentally came across this website where NGOs can post their projects. Right at this moment it was clear I would become a volunteer, I just needed to pick a project from a shortlist that I have created. From all the surely interesting projects, all of them deserve support, I have picked Better Me in Korando.
Why? The location. Look at the building. Part of their sustainable approach. The people. The task. The kids. Freedom to bring in my own skills and creativity. And what? Kenya? I have seen a lot about it in TV. I should be there! It was planned to stay 8 weeks. Initially I thought to stay there for 8 weeks. Eventually I have extended by another two weeks just because it was too nice, there was still time left and all I need to do is to reschedule flights home.
I already felt like a part of a community. A family member. Better Me is more than a community. It is a large family with with members across the world. And as special this time was to all of us, as special the last day is supposed to be. Inspired by a German guy who was donated a large meal for Christmas, I wanted to organise a large dinner for farewell. Supported by my parents. That’s unforgettable. And it began at the open air marketplace. I love weekly markets. To stroll around, getting hand-picked food directly from the farmer or producer. It was time to visit a marketplace once more.
Thanks to Celvin we had a good plan and shopping list. Of course all the Better Me guys are known so it was a good idea to let them do all the negotiations, which is a traditional thing there and the payments. I went there with Samambo, with whom I share the name “Johannes” but Samambo is his last and nick name. We often called us by the family name and other people did so too, for a better distinction or just for fun.
I have really enjoyed the time at the market. That’s a completely different market that I am familiar with even though I have visited several markets in Europe and Asia. But it was so nice to watch all the people taking care of their businesses, negotiating, making selections, packing stuff, next vendor…
Time went over too fast and of course – we have seen this often times – out of nothing a short rain has surprised us. Actually, that was a good timing as we had to go for rice and oil to a roofed shop anyway. But I was so sorry for all the vendors outdoors without any shelter except – maybe – a sunshade. That was a huge shower, I hope it hasn’t hurt them too much.
Transportation: as usual by Tuk Tuk. You would not believe what’s being transported by that vehicle… 😁 😅
Last steps:
Back home in Korando. Many of the children wanted to help preparing the dinner…
Later they were allowed to watch a movie. As explained earlier, this counts as an “event” already, similarly to go to the nearby river or a “dance night”. These events are limited as per week and each event is a highlight for the children.
Meanwhile, nothing would work without these 4 wonderful ladies. Thanks to them children, volunteers and the Better Me team does have to eat and can stay in clean rooms. Where children can help, they will be asked to help, depending on their ability. From cleaning their clothes, cooking, cutting woods and other work.
Eventually… it’s dinner time. A quick break down first. Anything from food to firewood and transportation equals EUR 150. Around 100 children (if not more) plus a dozen of adults (volunteers, Better Me team) did have a meal. At least for the children it was unusual large and rich in variety: rice, chicken, chapati, cabbage, banana and a juice.
Remember that anything is based on donations and there a lot of children enjoying equally rights. Hence, the Thursday is the “special day”. Once in a week, on Thursday evening, volunteers are invited to have dinner with the children at their dinner room. They’ll have varied dishes and the famous Chapati will be served as a side dish. Although it is a simple dish, it is not possible to have it every day. This is the reason why they call it “Chapati Dinner”. A definite highlight for the children. And now, look what they got on my last evening (at this time).
Bon appetit! Everyone was happy. So many smiling faces. I was deeply touched. It is almost overwhelming. After dinner the children were allowed to dance. Remember, this is an event and the movie earlier that day was the third event out of three possible events per week. But, given all the happiness around, also among the Better Me team, an exception was granted. This is only documented in words. This “dance night” was an incredible hour full of love, joy, smiles, shaking hips and – last but not least – once more a deep dive into the African culture. Those children do know the good songs, African pop and traditional music. My Spotify playlist has grown rapidly on that night.
All good things come to an end. With one eye laughing and one eye crying I had to say good bye. The most emotional moment. Even right now.
An assembly at the school is a routine and coincidentally I had to leave at this time, getting to the airport. Not without a last present. The school year has started again and all the children were around. Not only those being there permanently. I know what smaller items of daily use they were lacking in the class rooms. I just got it for them. And a handshake with the principal, a short speech and the promise to come back.
We all remembered the good time that we had together. I was so grateful for everything that has happened. That has sharpened my senses, changed my mind, improved my personality. The same love and gratitude I got in return.
“Tutaonana tena” – Swahili for “We will see each other again”. They sang this for me. I had no clue what to do. Just listening, looking around, sharing hugs. Moments from near to tears to showering tears. I did not want to leave. They wanted me to stay there. That says it all. One of the greatest experiences in my life. Saying that with tears in my eyes. And goosebumps.
If there’s anything to add, and since it’s getting very personal anyway. Here’s what I wanted to leave in a nutshell. Literally spent the last night with it.
Tutaonana tena.
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