Volunteering is one of the best ways to get to know the real, beautiful Africa

"It was definitely a great lesson of gratitude for what we have." - Jadwinia Jadziewicz, Polish Volunteer

My name is Jadwinia, I am a CSR manager in the international media company Dentsu Aegis Network. In 2016, I received the "Employee of the Year" award. This award is financially and any award-winning employee can decide how to spend it in accordance with its development or current role in the company. I decided to spend this money on volunteering in Africa.

My dream was to look at how the NGOs in the world work, what volunteers fight on the spot and I wanted to help in the field, and not from behind the desk in an elegant office building in Warsaw.

I decided to work for 3 weeks in the Nourish organization located next to the Kruger Park. I like their holistic approach helping the local community, education and elements related to environmental protection. I also had the impression that the work of volunteers is well organized.

A few weeks of preparation, establishing contacts thanks to CSR Dentsu Global Team in London and a short training in London by the organization Global Giving, I started the adventure of my life in South Africa.

In Nourish, positive energy, good attitude despite various difficulties, lots of ideas and happy people nearby are unique. I also liked the diversity of projects and the ability to try many things. One day we went to nearby schools with donated books, an another day I worked on the capsules of Moringa powdered leaves, and the next day we persuaded the local community to look after their dogs. In the afternoons, I played with children in the library. I was open to what would happen to me. 

Three weeks is definitely not enough to feel the impact. Or maybe this "impact" is sometimes only a smile, a good word, simple gestures and showing that I CARE?

It was definitely a great lesson of gratitude for what we have (basic things: access to water, electricity, education), but also a clash with stereotypes about "poor Africa". In fact, the children who came to Nourish every day often do not have their own beds, wardrobes full of clothes, extra activities, but they did not look unhappy. They have beautiful nature, clean air, are surrounded by family, they feel free. Sometimes I would like it for my children in Poland J! The only thing that I think is missing is good education and that's what Nourish does.

Volunteering is one of the best ways to get to know the real, beautiful Africa (or other place on earth). I am very happy that in this way I realized my prize.

Come here and try it! Thank you Nourish Team for an unforgettable time!