The following is a reflection from a student at The British International School, the school takes select students on an annual service trip to Tanzania.
As we come to the end of our Tanzania trip, we take time to reflect and consider the world through what is now a much different lens. The tranquility and ambiance of Shamba Camp are far removed from the hustle and bustle of Arusha, which is just minutes away via a bumpy gravel driveway and dusty main road. In the camp, we can hear the distant sounds of traffic and life of many kinds revolving around us, adding to the intrigue and interest that, on arrival in camp, seemed the strange unknown.
Now, after 10 days in Tanzania, the feelings are different. We have the notion, through our many excursions and activities, that we have scratched the surface of the mysteries that this country holds; one that is very different from what we know and understand. We have learned so much on this trip that it is impossible to recount everything in this short message.
We have discovered that we can really make a difference in people's lives. There are amazing, selfless people here in Tanzania who do it every day and are to be admired and respected on a level that I have never come across before. Wendy and Rebecca, who run the Seeway charity which we have been supporting through this trip, continue to make a huge difference in people’s lives. The personal stories of those we met ranged from upsetting to beyond comprehension. These were necessary to hear, however, as they helped us understand more deeply why there was such as need in the community here. It was a humbling experience for us all and honestly a very emotional one.
We now leave Tanzania wrestling with a multitude of feelings but secure in the knowledge that we have made the world just a little bit of a better place. Thank you to all of you who helped us with our fundraising. We can definitely say that the money is being used intelligently and compassionately, helping families and, in particular, children who are in crisis.
About The British International School:
Here at the British International School Charlotte, we offer your child the only genuine international education available in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Our approach to global learning sets us apart from other private schools in Charlotte.
We have a deeper understanding that the impact of international education goes much further than geography or cultural awareness. It further:
- gives your child knowledge about cultures and countries, by inspiring them to be amazed by the world;
- generates interest in food or fashion, and creates within them a genuine interest in the lives of other people, celebrating diversity in all its forms;
- recognizes individuality, by giving each child the confidence to embrace differences as normal, while valuing and accepting their own uniqueness;
- teaches your child another language, and enthuses him or her with the desire and confidence to communicate with people from around the world;
- connects them to others from Charlotte by providing a global network of lifelong friends and committed learners just like them from an early age.
The British International School is now enrolling for the 2023-2024 school year.
