Entries by Serve

“.. we learned from them..”

August 1, 2024 in /by

"... we can all learn from them.."

Graduate Structural Engineer, Anna Juda writes about the four weeks volunteer programme with SERVE with the Badjao community in Philippines

SERVE Philippines Volunteer skills for transformation overseas volunteer learning from youth in global south
Youth workers from Badjao community co-led workshops with Anna Juda (3rd from right), SERVE volunteer in Cebu, Philippines




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Diary entry: 31st July 2024
 
Where do I begin? The 4 weeks spent here were full of laughter, jokes, memories made for life and most importantly connections made with the locals like no other. I think that most, if not all of my highlights relate to the Badjao people.
 
Together with other SERVE volunteers I had the honour of leading different workshops for their community while working alongside their youth leaders. This allowed me to immerse myself more in the Badjao culture and traditions. 
 
The first highlight that comes to my mind is the kindness, open-heartedness and selflessness of the Badjao people and the willingness to learn. Walking through the Nano Nagle Centre for the first time, felt like being at home.
 
They met us with big smiles as if we’re relatives that they haven’t seen in a long time. During our time together they said that they learned a lot from us especially in the art/drama/music workshops that we did with the students during the week. We co-led the workshops with youth leaders. But I think that we learned more from them.
 
They taught me about the value of family and friends. And the importance of sharing any worries and happiness with others because a problem shared is a problem halved.
 
Another highlight is the Sports Day. It was organised for 122 students of the Badjao community by the Irish volunteers. This event is something that they look forward to every year. The massive smiles on their faces when they saw the sport and fun activities that we prepared would light up anyone having a bad day.
 
During that day we shared many competitions and falls but most importantly we danced in the rain. Every time that I think about the small things that made them happy and excited on the day, warms my heart. The ability to be grateful for things that in Ireland would be unappreciated is something that we all can learn from them. 
 
The Team Building beach day with the Badjao community leaders is another one of my highlights. Around the world the Badjao tribe is known as the people who can swim underwater for an extended period of time. When we got to the beach it turned out that a lot of them don’t know how to swim due to overpollution in the water and the surrounding area where they live. Realising that many are unable to swim but are comfortable with the water will stick with me as it proved to me that stereotypes are often wrong.
 
A highlight other than the amazing people that I got to know during my placement, is the locally produced fruits like mango and pineapple that we got to eat everyday. The freshness and sweetness of them is something that I hope everyone will get to experience at least once in their lives. 
 
There is so much more that I could mention as my highlights but those are the ones that stick with me the most. The volunteering experience showed me that even though SERVE and Badjao are from opposite sides of the world with different traditions we still find joy in the same things and share some similar problems. This shows that maybe we’re not as different from each other as we may think. All the conversations and laughter that we shared with each other, will stick with me forever.

Anna Juda helping with food prep for lunch on placement in the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines


Art workshop delight: The flag of Philippines


The team-building day at the beach


Anna Juda (front, 2nd from right)

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“…enriched my understanding of global issues..”

July 31, 2024 in , /by

"...enriched my understanding of global issues..."

Leah Kearney, an aspiring Quantity Surveyor studying at Munster Technological University, writes about volunteering at Young Africa Mozambique with SERVE

Leah Kearney at Beira campus in Young Africa Mozambique (2024)




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Diary entry: 29th July 2024

My name is Leah Kearney and I study Quantity Surveying in Munster Technological University. In this blog, I’ll share the journey of my month-long volunteering experience in Mozambique. I’ll reflect on the meaningful projects I worked on and the personal growth I experienced.

My construction skills were put to the test in ways I hadn’t anticipated whilst working on diverse projects in Young Africa, Beira. I contributed to building walls, renovating the basketball court, mixing concrete, screeding (smoothing) surfaces, metal work and painting. Each task was more than just a construction job it was an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the Young Africa campus.

The renovation of the basketball court, for example, put new life into a space that was overlooked. This court is now a hub for local youth, providing them with a safe, vibrant place to play and gather. The improvements not only boosted the community’s morale but also fostered a greater sense of unity and engagement amongst the young people that I worked with.

Building and repairing walls in the girls hostel and the nursery helped to improve living conditions and ensure a more secure environment for everyone. The work we did in these areas was crucial in enhancing the overall quality of life, as sturdy walls provide protection and contribute to a sense of stability.

Our efforts in mixing mortar and screeding the auto mechanics workshop surface was essential in creating a durable and functional space. Each task, though seemingly technical, played a vital role in the infrastructure improvements that will benefit the community for years to come.

Volunteering in Mozambique through construction projects profoundly impacted my personal growth. Immersed in the vibrant community of Beira, I gained a deep appreciation for local culture and resilience, which broadened my perspective and fostered greater empathy.

The hands-on experience of building infrastructure strengthened my adaptability in the face of challenging conditions. Collaborating with diverse teams taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, while the results of our efforts gave a deep sense of accomplishment.

This journey has enriched my understanding of global issues and has influenced my approach to both personal and professional aspirations.

Overall, the impact of our work extended beyond the physical structures we built. It helps the community feel self-reliant, evokes pride in their surroundings, and enhance their daily lives.

This experience was a powerful reminder of how construction skills can be used to foster positive change and contribute to community development on a global scale.

Leah Kearney with fellow SERVE volunteers working on building a wall at Beira campus of Young Africa Mozambique


Leah Kearney working on building a wall at Beira campus of Young Africa Mozambique


Leah and other SERVE volunteers painting the wall of the creche at Beira campus of Young Africa Mozambique


Leah Kearney with fellow SERVE volunteer painting the Young Africa logo on the wall at Beira campus of Young Africa Mozambique


Leah Kearney with fellow SERVE volunteer painting the Young Africa logo on the wall at Beira campus of Young Africa Mozambique


SERVE volunteers at the creche on site of the Beira campus in Young Africa Mozambique

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I can fight inequalities by

July 29, 2024 in /by

Thoughts on fighting inequalities

SERVE Volunteer Ayanna Letcher writes about the small things she’s going to do in her own life to fight global inequalities

SERVE volunteer Ayanna Letcher fighting inequalities with small actions to help people experiencing poverty
Few members from the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines with SERVE volunteer Ayanna Letecher in 2024 (2nd from left)




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Diary entry: 24th July 2024

This is what I am going to change in my life to fight global inequalities

Everyday, we are all faced with hardships but as time goes on, these hardships become normalised within societies.

For example, the children of the Badjao community do not dwell on their living circumstances that are disproportionately affected by lack of access to education, healthcare and affected by water pollution. Instead, I witness them finding joy and entertainment in the little things we take for granted/advantage of.

I’ve also observed that the instruction manuals are repurposed into paper planes and plastic bottles are turned into toy boats pulled along by strings through puddles.

We as Irish are so oblivious to the impact of ‘single use’ products as we have adequate disposal resources but this issue is not as effectively resolved in developing countries like the Philippines. Instead, it is dumped onto the communities experiencing poverty where they give the waste new life and maximise its usage through innovation and creativity.

In addition to changing my shopping habits and reflecting on my materialistic ways, I am ever more motivated to continue my studies in politics and sociology.

I hope to gain more knowledge and raise awareness on the importance of preserving and protecting the culture and livelihoods of indigenous people.

This volunteer placement with SERVE has provided me with a much broader perspective of how our actions affect others and that the continual cycle of oppression must end.

About Ayanna Letcher

West Cork based, Ayanna Letcher volunteered with SERVE in 2024 with the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines. Ayanna wrote the above diary entry while on placement.

Ayanna Letcher speaking to members of the Badjao community (2024) at the welcome ceremony that they hosted for the SERVE volunteers


Ayanna with a child creating a fish mural with palm prints at Nano Nagle Child Care & Learning Centre in Cebu


Ayanna with fellow SERVE volunteer Ann Marie with the Health Committee at the Nano Nagle Child Care & Learning Centre

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Highlights of volunteering in Beira

July 24, 2024 in , , /by

Highlights of volunteering with SERVE at Young Africa in Beira, Mozambique

Engineer-in-training and SERVE volunteer, Caitlin Ball shares her varied highlights of volunteering with Young Africa in Beira Mozambique (2024)

SERVE volunteer Caitlin Ball shares highlights about volunteering with Young Africa Beira Mozambique
Caitlin Ball (front 3rd from right) with students and staff member at Young Africa in Beira, Mozambique




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Diary entry: 22nd July 2024

My name is Caitlin Ball, and I’m an engineering student  at Trinity College Dublin currently volunteering in Young Africa (YA) Beira, Mozambique. I chose to volunteer with SERVE due to my passion for volunteering and construction.

As a civil engineering student, I am deeply committed to on-site work and promoting infrastructure equality worldwide. Learning about Young Africa and the chance to get involved truly ignited my interest.

Our first project involved building walls around the women’s hostel and the on-campus preschool. I was thrilled with the teamwork displayed by everyone to accomplish the task.

From gathering materials, mixing mortar, placing concrete blocks, and filling the gaps between them, the collaboration between volunteers and Young Africa construction students was remarkable. Learning to work in solidarity has been extremely beneficial and rewarding to all volunteers.

During the third week of my volunteer experience, I reflected on our progress and my personal highlights. A significant project we all contributed to was updating the basketball court by repainting the lines, refurbishing the backboards, and painting the basketball hoop.

These improvements were showcased at the Young Africa Sports Festival (2024), held on the third weekend of July. There was an incredible buzz, and we were all proud of our accomplishments. The teamwork that helped complete the project before Young Africa Sports Festival was mirrored by the participants’ teamwork during the event.

Another highlight for our group was meeting the students in the preschool and donating toys, coloring books, and school supplies. We were ecstatic to see the joy on the children’s faces as we delivered our donations. The students were thrilled to receive the toys.. I’ll never forget the feeling this gave us and the opportunity to contribute to the preschool on the Young Africa (YA) Beira campus.

In conclusion, volunteering with SERVE in YA Beira, Mozambique, has been a transformative experience. Meeting the staff and students and overcoming language barriers to work together has been truly inspiring. The projects we’ve completed and the connections we’ve made have shown me the profound impact of collaboration and dedication. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful work and for the memories that will stay with me forever.

A member of Young Africa with Caitlina Ball (left) in Young Africa Beira fixing the basket ball net


Caitlin Ball (left) with Mark Coomey at Young Africa in Beira, Mozambique


Caitlin (1st from right) watching fellow SERVE volunteers working on the goal post to prepare for Young Africa Beira Sport Spostival (2024)

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I was also surprised about….

July 24, 2024 in , /by

"I was also surprised about .... "

SERVE Volunteer Cormac Flynn describes the experience of  organising digital literacy classes for the young people of the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines

SERVE volunteer Cormac Flynn (standing right) with Ana Juda (standing left) facilitating a digital ltercay class at Nano Nagle Child Care and Learning Centre (22024) in Cebu, Philippines




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Diary entry: 20th July 2024

At my first meeting with SERVE, I mentioned that my previous volunteering experience included computer classes for older people with another organisation.

We discussed then that maybe we could organise a similar digital literacy workshop with the Sama-Badjao community in Cebu. I agreed as I had had a great and successful time teaching this area before.

My experience worked well again with the Sama-Badjao community.

I am currently teaching larger classes of a mixture of teenagers, college students and community leaders, who have very different levels of experience and access to technology.

I have been demonstrating basics such as how to use search engines to find useful information, how to create Google accounts for email and word processing, and using the computer keyboard to type. The students then get a chance to practice on their own.

We have used a combination of videos and games to break up the lessons too. Through the workshops with the community here, I’ve learned how learning even basic things can make a difference; things we take for granted such as using Google.

I was also surprised at the level of tech proficiency that some students have, and it has shifted my perspective a lot on what life is like for indigenous communities.

Additional note from Team SERVE:

It’s always great to observe our volunteers like Cormac donate their time and skills while on placement. And, in return they have transformed outdated narratives of people living in the Global South that are prevalent in the Global North.

Cormac (standing 1st from left) with Team Nano Nangle facilitating the class for youth of Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines (2024)


Digital literacy class in session for youth of Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines (2024).

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A day in the life of a SERVE volunteer with the Badjao

July 18, 2024 in , /by

A typical day of a SERVE volunteer in the Badjao community

SERVE volunteer Grace Sheehan describes a typical day in the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines

and explains the unforgettable kindness of the people she has met.

SERVE Volunteer in the Badjao Community Philippines 2024
Grace Sheehan (2nd from left) with fellow SERVE Volunteer, Ana Juda, at Nano Naglo Child Care and Learning Centre in the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines




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Diary entry: 17th July 2024

About Cebu:

A popular mode of transport here in Cebu is the “jeepney”. They have no windows or doors, instead they’re completely open. They could fit up to 13 people to a side at any one time. We catch two of these every morning and two every evening after working with the Badjao community.

Inside the city, endless rows of high rise buildings hosting various establishments – businesses, schools, homes and more – reach like fingers into the sky, the streets and roads like veins within it. The city isn’t all grey, we drive through patches which hold parks and areas of greenery with numerous trees and bushes (some of which bear fruit like coconut, mango and papaya).

Arriving at Nano Nagle Centre

After our 2nd jeepney, we take tricycles and e-bikes with side cars to bring us from the side of the road to our final destination: the Nano Nagle Centre. This journey only lasts about ten minutes. To get to the Badjao community, we first drive through an area where people are experiencing extreme poverty.

Everyone here live in houses made from whatever material they can find. They do most of their living on the streets in front of their homes. When we arrive to the Nano Nagle Centre, teams of Badjao children come running to the bikes, excited for the day ahead of us all.

SERVE Volunteer in the Badjao Community Philippines 2024
A view of Cebu's sprawling city from the volunteer group's accommodation at the foot of the mountains

Meeting the children and what happens through the morning

When the children are allowed inside, they line up in their class groups (grades 1 to 5). They remove their shoes and neatly place them against the wall in front of their classrooms before going inside. They begin their day sitting in a circle on the floor. Now they are ready.

Depending on the workshop, the volunteers, and the age group, the workshops start a little differently. I like to open with exercise. Everyone stretches and jumps to get our blood pumping. The next few activities that I do are all games – e.g. what time is it mister wolf and musical statues. I’ve worked on Art and the Environment/Nature workshops.

This morning I worked on Environment/Nature with grade 3 and this evening with a high school group (ages 12 to 16 years old). In the morning, we talked about the differences between the animals and the weather in Ireland and The Philippines, made boats with recycled egg cartons, paper and sticks (for the sails). We talked about what the environment could be, and what it means to each of them and how we can look after it.

SERVE Volunteer in the Badjao Community Philippines 2024
Grace Sheehan facilitated a workshop with a high school grpup in the Badjao community with theme of 'Care for Enviornment/Nature'

Having lunch and  what we do in the afternoon

After lunch we opened the workshop with games, then moved on to what “environment” means to them, how to care for it, and what they need in theirs to be happy. Finally the group was divided into groups to think about and discuss pollution.

During the workshops I write down all the Sama Badjao words I hear, so that I’m able to communicate with the groups better in future. They test me now when I see them.

Lunch is another highlight of my day. First we pray, then comes a buffet style setup and a long table made from little tables, two to a side and a third on either end. After, everybody helps to clean up and reset the room so this can be used for a workshop. Lunch is filled with various conversations: the workshops, how people are, some differences in our cultures.

Going home after a full day

Our commute home is at 4pm and this is the same as the morning, the jeepneys are usually a little busier by now. Arriving home could be anywhere between 5.30pm and 6pm. We usually babble about various things we experiences throughout the day. Dinner is at 6.30pm, after we might have a meeting, or time to wind down and go to bed so we can do it all again tomorrow.

My reflection

I’m excited to be working here. I didn’t expect to become so attached to the experience so quickly, but here we are. I don’t believe that I’ll ever forget the people I’ve met and the welcome that I’ve received. I’ve only been met with endless kindness, it’s breathtaking.

SERVE Volunteer in the Badjao Community Philippines 2024
Grace Sheehan's Sama Badjao dictionary

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Being similar though from opposite sides of the globe

July 18, 2024 in , /by

The differences and similarities between young adults in Beira and West Cork

SERVE volunteer Diarmuid Murphy shares a reflection from Beira, Mozambique

Diarmuid Murphy (2nd from left) with Nordito Mangula, Francisco Marcos and Durao Yove Young Africa SERVE West Cork to Beira
Diarmuid Murphy (2nd from left) with Nordito Mangula, Francisco Marcos and Durao Yove




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Diary Entry 15th July 2024

My name is Diarmuid Murphy. I am a 20 year old from West Cork student studying pharmaceutical and industrial chemistry at UL. I am writing this blog from the Young Africa campus in Beira Mozambique, where I have been volunteering with SERVE since July 1st.

In this short piece, I will give an insight into the lives of three students that I have been lucky to meet at the daily conversational English lessons at Young Africa Beira. 

Nordito Mangula, Francisco Marcos and Durao Yove, all aged between 18 and 20, were very obliging when I proposed the idea of writing a blog based on their lives. These students have exceptional English. They explained to me that they have been studying the language since they were 6 years old, when they started primary school.

They all completed secondary school last year, where they sat an exam similar to the leaving cert in Ireland, and are now taking a year out to further improve their English skills before continuing to university. 

Nordito and Durao wish to become secondary school teachers as they are both very passionate about education. To achieve this goal, they will complete a 4 year degree. Francisco aspires to become a doctor, so that he can take care of his parents in the future. This will require 7 years of study at a university in Maputo, the capital city of  Mozambique.

College fees in Mozambique appear relatively inexpensive from an Irish perspective, at 45,000 Meticais per year (642 Euro). I appreciate, however, that even at this cost, third level education is still highly inaccessible to most. 

As the conversation progressed, I began to notice more and more similarities between their lives and mine. Sport and music quickly became the main topics of discussion, with names like Christian’s Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Ed Sheeran and Post Malone featuring heavily. I was informed that learning to drive requires a similar process to that in Ireland.

Religion is prominent in the lives of young people, with Francisco being a member of the choir at his local church. All three of the students come from similar family backgrounds to my own. They live in modest houses, they have between 2 and 5 siblings and their parents have very normal jobs; accountant, policeman, nurse etc. 

Did I expect their lives to be vastly different to my own? I guess I did. Whether this was because of stereotypes or biases I unknowingly had prior to writing this blog, or just because of lack of education, I’m not sure. I am now aware that even though we come from opposite sides of the globe, our interests, our fears and our dreams could not be more similar. 

I am very grateful to Nordito, Francisco and Durao for taking the time to help me with my blog. I am also grateful to SERVE for giving me this amazing opportunity to work in solidarity with my fellow volunteers to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Diarmuid Murphy (standing on left) getting stuck in with fellow SERVE Volunteers and staff at Young Africa Beira, Mozambique


Diarmuid Murphy (bending 1st from right) getting stuck in with fellow SERVE Volunteers and student at Young Africa Beira, Mozambique


Diarmuid Murphy getting ready for the task of the day at Young Africa Beira, Mozambique

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Empowering Youth: A Reflection on World Youth Skills Day (2024)

July 15, 2024 in , , , , /by

A reflection on World Youth Skills Day (2024)

Alexiy Sologub (SERVE intern) writes a powerful essay that outlines the transformative journey of young people at Young Africa Zimbabwe

World Youth Skills Day SERVE Young Africa in Mt Darwin 2024
Students of Young Africa Zimbabwe from Mt Darwin. Photo Credit: Young Africa




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In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day to celebrate the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship.

On World Youth Skills Day, let us unite in recognising the potential of young people as agents of peace and commit to providing them with the skills and opportunities to address challenges and contribute to a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future. 

Tucked away in rural Zimbabwe, Mount Darwin is experiencing a significant and inspiring change thanks to our partner, Young Africa (YA). They have been running a life-changing six-month training and placement programme.

The young people who’ve enrolled have gained firsthand experience, essential life, and entrepreneurial skills. The programme incorporates the help of Master Craftsmen (MCs), and the initiative is confirmed and recognised by local authorities. It is a crucial step towards sustainable youth empowerment and community development. 

Features of the YA Skills Training Programme  in Mt Darwin, Zimbabwe:

The Programme runs from mid-December to mid-June. It is tailored to be more than just a traditional vocational course.

From the beginning, it combines theoretical understanding with practical aspects of an internship, ensuring students get a well-rounded education. The training method blends in-class education and real-world experience.

A sizeable part of the training is conducted directly under the supervision of experienced MCs in a spectrum of trades, including welding, carpentry, and cosmetology. Along with ccomprehensive technical,  soft skills are also harnessed.

For example, in cosmetology, students gain advanced techniques in hairdressing, skincare, and make-up while also learning customer service skills and business management.

Carpentry apprentices learn about several types of wood, joinery techniques, and furniture design, alongside project management and financial planning.

This holistic practice creates skilled tradespeople who can run their businesses effectively. 

SERVE’s role in this programme:

With our partners, Young Africa we have created the ‘Skills for Youth Resilience Programme’. This project has been successful with support from Irish Aid’s Civil Society Fund, support from public donations to SERVE, other donor groups in Ireland, and Young Africa’s donor network.

Students of young Africa working in a business while training


Students of young Africa working in a business while training


Students of young Africa working in a business while training

Voices from the Ground:

There is a whole host of personal transformation stories from the programme’s participants. These personal accounts display the profound impact that the learned skills have on their lives and community. 

Belinda’s Journey 

Belinda is a single mother who joined the cosmetology course with hopes of creating a better future for herself and her child. Initially earning just $10 on weekends through her hairdressing job, she has since drastically increased her income after completing the course. She joined an ISAL (Internal Savings and Lending) group. Belinda is now saving money and planning to expand her business. Her story is a testament to how the programme fosters self-reliance and financial independence. 

Luwis’ Transformation 

Luwis is a carpentry student who developed an indomitable enterprising spirit through the programme. Starting with basic carpentry skills, he progressed to making and selling his own products, which allows him to save money to buy his own tools. His ambition to start his own business highlights the programme’s success in building entrepreneurial skills and confidence. 

Young Africa students in Mt Darwin depend on each other to improve their learning and skills - Photo credit: Young Africa Zimbabwe


Young Africa students in Mt Darwin enjoying down time which is just as important as studying: Photo credit Young Africa Zimbabwe


A welding student at Young Africa in Mt Darwin - Photo credit: Young Africa Zimbabwe

Master Craftsman’s  (Lead Trainer) Perspective:

The welding Master Craftsman (MC) from Punice Investments has noted progress among students in their technical skills and problem-solving abilities.  

Support from Community and Local Authorities:

The programme’s impact extends far beyond the individual participants, garnering substantial support from local authorities and the community. Their feedback and involvement are crucial for the programme’s success and expansion. 

 Feedback from Local Authorities:

The District Development Coordinator highlighted the programme’s potential to transform the youth landscape in Northern Districts.

Expanding the programme to these areas would ensure inclusivity and provide more young people with opportunities to improve their lives.

This expansion is critical for spreading the benefits of the programme across a larger demographic. 

 

Full room on Young Africa Graduation Day at Mt Darwin, Zimbabwe


Susan Madodo, Director Young Africa Zimbabwe addressing the students and family at Mt Darwin


Few of the students at Mt Darwin on their Graduation Day at Young Africa with their Graduation Kit to start their business (supported by SERVE)

Reflections of the impact of this Programme: 

The programme in Mt Darwin is much more than a vocational training initiative; it is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change.

By equipping young people with practical skills, life lessons, and entrepreneurial knowledge, the programme is fostering a new generation of skilled, confident, and empowered individuals.

As it continues to evolve, the lessons learned, and stories shared will undoubtedly pave the way for even greater successes in the future.  

In Mt Darwin, the seeds of change have been planted.

The young people will grow and thrive, so too will their communities.

The journey has only just begun, and with continued support and innovation, the future looks incredibly promising. 

 

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Why did I choose to volunteer with SERVE?

July 10, 2024 in , , /by

Without solidarity what do we have ...

Katie Butler explains why she choose to volunteer with Cork-based Charity SERVE working with partners in Philippines, Mozambique and other countries in the Global South.

 

Katie Butler describes why she choose to volunteer with Cork charity SERVE and go to Mozambique
SERVE volunteers in Mozambique with Young Africa founders Raj A. Joseph ( 2nd from left, back row) and Dorien B. (2nd from right, front row) with Director of Young Africa Mozambique Aksana Varela (1st from right, middle row)




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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.  

Katie and other SERVE volunteers building the wall of the girl's hostel on the Young Africa campus Beira


Katie painting alphabets on the wall of the nursery on site at Young Africa campus in Beira

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How did I choose to volunteer with SERVE?

July 10, 2024 in /by

It needed to be meaningful, not a tick box...

  Jessica Lynch explains why she choose to volunteer with Cork-based Charity SERVE

working with partners in Philippines, Mozambique and other countries in the Global South.

Jessica Lynch volunteer wth SERVE - Cork Based Charity working with partner in Philippines
Jessica with many youth of the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines




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Diary Entry: 5th July 2024

I am a Geography teacher. I teach about aid and inequalities, the Global North versus the Global South, developed and developing economies. But all I know is what I have read in the book, documentaries I have watched, and stories I have heard.

My first understanding of inequality was as a child when I would bring a Trócaire box home from school during Lent or when ads came on the TV which would upset my family and we would switch them off.

As I’ve gotten older I can’t ignore it anymore. I want to do something to help, to make a small difference.

I have made small changes like buying Fairtrade products, raising awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals with my students and donating to local causes. I don’t always get it right. But I want to do more…

Volunteering abroad has been on my ‘bucket list’ for a long time for these reasons but it needed to be meaningful, not just a tick-the-box exercise.

I have researched various volunteering projects over the years but none of them seemed like the right fit. ‘Voluntourism’ seems to be a new phenomenon but is it for the right reasons?

In February of this year, I was attending the World Wise Global Schools teacher conference on the theme “Stories of Solidarity”. I was paired up with a woman called Fiona Buggy who shared her story of solidarity with me and told me of the many summers she spent volunteering with SERVE.

On the train home I read up on SERVE, their partnerships and their commitment to Global Citizen Education (GCE). It felt like the perfect fit for me! I sent an email that night and the rest is history!

I have arrived in Cebu feeling all of the emotions – grateful for the opportunity and for all of the support I have received, nervous about what the next 4 weeks will bring and excited to hopefully make a difference to the Badjao Tribe.

Jessica enroute to Cebu (2024)


Jessica along with rest of the group of SERVE volunteers at the Mother and Child Care and Learning Centre in the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines

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