Experience review

Name: Janina

My time at the Home of Malaika in three words? Loving, emotional, and unforgettable!

In early 2023, I spent three months in Arusha, Tanzania, working in all four projects of the Home of Malaikas. I still remember my first day in the project as if it was yesterday, since I was welcomed so warmly and lovingly. Doreen and Zamzam, the two project coordinators, welcomed me with open arms and big hearts and showed me so much appreciation, openness, and love that they immediately won a permanent place in my heart. I felt very comfortable during the three months here at the Home of Malaika and learned a lot from the local women and children.

In the sewing project, I worked with the women and had a lot of fun supporting them in their daily work. Every day I looked into the bright eyes of the children when they came from school to the afternoon program of the KuPa sponsorships and played with us full of joy before they went to class. I supported schoolgirls in sewing their own reusable period products and was able to feel a lot of gratitude and, above all, joy in being creative. I also got to know some of the women who have taken their first steps into a small self-employment in the Family & Friends program and was able to gain insights into their ideas and progress.

With Doreen and Zamzam, I visited the women and children in their homes where I was welcomed with open arms and had the opportunity to experience the way many people live here and what challenges they face. From all these women and children, I was able to hear their stories, learn from them and accompany them on a part of their journey, which made me incredibly happy and fulfilled.

One thing I learned here in particular: volunteering is not about saving the world or turning life upside down, but about learning from each other with love, respect, an open heart, and appreciation, questioning your own attitudes and being part of a community that works together to make the world a little more loving and open. And that was one of the most emotional, beautiful, and unforgettable experiences for me.