Diary entry: 7th July 2024

My name is Katie Butler.

I chose to volunteer with SERVE in Solidarity due to the knowledge that was offered in a presentation at MTU.

When I researched SERVE, I discovered the purpose of the organisation and got an overview of SERVE.

I realised that this charity works for right reasons: to help youth in Mozambique fight poverty, increase access to education, offer basic life skills training that are taken for granted in Ireland and many other nations around the world (Global North).

I am so grateful for the three training workshops in Cork prior to departing for Mozambique, Beira.

There is also another amazing Young Africa campus, Dondo as we ventured there on Friday. As a group we got an insight on what life is like as a young adult/child in Mozambique.

I have overcome language barriers and have learned more Portuguese due to being immersed into the language and culture. All the people here are a gift to come across and I have made friendships to last a lifetime with people with the same goals.

We came here in Solidarity and overall I’ve never felt more like at home. Everything is heightened such as the atmosphere on the bus driving through local towns and viewing in person the poverty that is so prominent.

Most of all, I have noticed the pure joy and happiness all around me. The social skills of young kids in the nursery are astounding in comparison to Ireland, as singing and playing is the norm without an I-pad. I have also become aware of the children outside of Young Africa campus, where they have to work to survive.  

The first picture I have included is all of us volunteers, ‘Familia’ with Raj and Dorien. It was an honour to meet such inspiring people who founded Young Africa with the intention of changing stereotypes and bringing education into the lives of those who are experiencing poverty.

This programme is amazing and am grateful to be part of it where I can make an impact and a difference. 

Also, us nine volunteers learn so much from Young Africa students and the staff. And, they learn from us. Working in Solidarity is so important, without solidarity, what do we have? 

The first week has been the most memorable experience of my life. On our days off we spent time exploring of our surroundings within the local town Beira and taking in our environments. We swam in the Indian ocean and ate amazing food from the nearby restaurants.

The highlight of my week was viewing the progression of the wall being built and the hard work that goes into the projects.

Secondly, I will never forget the faces the kids had within the nursery when they got goodies from the volunteers.

It felt like Christmas. Toys are taken so much for granted in Ireland. I cannot wait for the weeks that lay ahead.

Time is of the essence, and I will enjoy and learn every second.