Katie’s Zambia Experience

What task on your project did you most enjoy?

I really enjoyed being able to work with the kids and connect with them.

What was your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement was being open to meeting new people and approaching new situations with curiosity rather than judgement. I was proud of how easily I opened up to the people around me, even though I knew nobody going into the trip.

Did you feel you made a difference?

I feel that I made a difference by showing up each day with a smile and a positive attitude.

What advice would you give future participants?

My advice would be to truly put effort into learning about the culture of where you are going. When you show interest in the people there, they will be receptive to that. For example, learning some words in their language and using them is a great way to show you are trying to build relationships and putting in effort.

What was your most memorable moment?

My most memorable moment was when I was talking to this young girl one day, and she asked me where I was from. I told her I was from the USA and that this was my first time in Zambia. She smiled and said, “You are so welcome here.” This was my second day in the country, and something about her kindness and warmth made me feel so good.

Please tell others why you think they should sign up for a program with Kaya.

I recommend signing up for a program with Kaya because they take something super complicating and scary, and make it seamless and easy for you. I had never been out of the country before, so I was completely unaware of how to book a trip like this. However, Kaya walked me though every step along the way. They also answered all of my questions quickly and efficiently, no matter how small the question was. I would definitely use Kaya again.