Happy International Volunteer Day!
Being a volunteer has had a profound impact on my life.
In India I was the guest of honour at weddings, sat alongside Buddhist monks during their prayers, and danced with my little brothers and sisters to Bollywood tunes.
In Papua New Guinea I have watched singsings in awe of the colour and movement, prayed alongside my big-hearted colleagues, and am honoured to call them my wantoks.
THANK YOU to my family and friends back home, who have helped me jump off the cliff, supported me through the jump and made sure I didn’t crash land upon return.
THANK YOU to the hilarious friends I have made along the way, for making me laugh and encouraging me, even when things get rough.
SHOUT OUT to my bro Liam, who found his place in a village just out of Siem Reap, teaching English in a dimly-lit classroom to bright students six nights a week.
THANK YOU to the hard-working teachers at Tiny Angels School in Darjeeling and the inspirational pioneers at The Voice Inc. in Port Moresby. Even though we’re from different places in the world, you’re my family. You have welcomed me into your homes and given me a small glimpse into what ‘real life’ is like. I am in awe of your endless energy to work for change in your communities. You’ve taught me more than I could ever teach you.