Personal experiences
Making A Difference in Kenya
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In May 2009, I embarked on my African adventure not knowing what to expect at all. When I got to Mombasa airport I was picked up by a taxi man called Geoffrey who had a sign saying ‘Grandsons of Abraham’. I was also welcomed by two other volunteers Matt and Stella who were on the same flight and coming to the same project as me.
Whilst walking though the gates we were greeted by a big group of children who were running towards us shouting ‘Jambo!’(hello) They were so excited with smiles beaming from ear to ear. All wanted to shake your hands. Their excitement came over me and I automatically felt at ease. Getting nearer into the centre more boys introduced themselves to us and they were all fighting for attention to find out who you were and how long you were staying. It was an incredible feeling and all anxieties I had disappeared.
The Monday after the arrival weekend was the first day of teaching. I was slightly nervous about teaching as I had never done it before. It’s not as difficult as I had thought originally because they have a set curriculum and you just follow through the text book giving exercises. Whilst using your own ideas and creativity to get the boys attention. The boys’ enthusiasm for learning helped my confidence to teach them.
Hanging out with the boys is where you get your best photo times. These boys are not shy! They constantly ask to have their photo taken and take photos of their friends. I was always giving them my camera to use and always got it back. This is where I got most of my best photos.
Every day was a new adventure. You never knew what to expect for the day and that was the exciting part of it. I experienced a mixture of emotions but these added to the adventures!
Kenya is a very friendly country. You will never be alone! Whilst walking around Mtwapa saying ‘Jambo’ to everyone. Then there are the random locals who approach you wanting to get to know you (quite often selling things!). Don’t be shocked if they ask for your telephone number or email. Its just how they are.
I was lucky enough to go to Mombasa city and see the street children where a llot of the grandson boys originally came from. It was a very worthwhile surreal experience. I found it very hard to believe the boys had come from here. Made me see how far they had come. This is all down to there own determination to have a better future for themselves.
I had the best experience of my life. I wish everyone could be able to visit these boys and feel the warmth and generosity they give to you. The country of Kenya and Grandsons of Abraham has given me a valuable perspective of life.
Rachel Miles
July 2009
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Consider sponsoring a boy through secondary school. Secondary education in Kenya lasts for a maximum of 4 years and for a total cost of between just £25 to £40 per month (different school fees vary) you could pay for the keep and education of a boy, making an unbelieveable difference to his life.
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Volunteers
If you would like to share a few lines, paragraphs or a dissertation, (once you start you might not be able to stop), about your time at Grandsons, please email us.
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Projects
A major UK based project with links to the Friends group which is working towards linking individuals, groups and organizations in the UK with Grandsons and its wider community. Currently all funds raised by the Friends group are earmarked for the project.
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