The volunteering included weekly beach clean-ups, educating the local fisherman on conservation and coral reforestation. Due to bleaching and overexploitation, Kenya’s coral reefs have significantly declined over the last three decades. On a typical day, I cleaned the coral tables and built artificial structures to plant more coral. It was amazing to be part of this bottom-up approach as marine conservation is an area I have always been fascinated by yet knew so little about. One of my favourite parts of the programme was the daily snorkelling to survey the biodiversity in the reefs, a great way to cool down in the scorching heat and have a bit of added fun!
I was also lucky enough to help the local community. We frequently went into one of the schools in Kuruwitu to teach and play with the local children. A few of my friends and I brought a child’s bike in the local town of Kilifi and I loved seeing the enjoyment this gave them. It was heart-warming to see the smiles that were brought to their faces. We were delighted to leave the bicycle as a gift for the children when we left. Another way we helped the community was by building jikos – local stoves in family homes. This made such a big difference as they need an open fire to be able to cook inside.
I am so grateful to have received the Old Bradfieldian Masonic Lodge Award to help fund my once in a lifetime trip.
During the programme, we also went on a four-day safari, I had never been on one before, and I loved it. The early morning game drives and sundowners overlooking a herd of elephant in the watering hole were breathtaking. I was extremely fortunate to see most of the Big 5 and the highlight would have to be spotting a cheetah.
After an incredible five weeks, I finally left my volunteering programme and continued travelling throughout Kenya with the other volunteers who are now firm friends. Our travels took us to Lamu, Watamu, Diani and finally to Nanuki where we climbed Mount Kenya. This was one of the hardest yet most worthwhile experiences I have ever had. I have never had to undergo anything so physically demanding in my life, however, the view from the top was magical.
Despite continuously delaying my flight I had to eventually return home to England as I had a job as a working pupil in an Eventing yard to get back to. My trip to Kenya was one of the most eye-opening things I have ever done. My volunteering programme was not only educational but an incredible experience. I think it is fair to say I have definitely caught the ‘Africa bug’ and can’t wait to go back. I am so grateful to have received the Old Bradfieldian Masonic Lodge Award to help fund my once in a lifetime trip.
