Yulia’s Volunteer Story
My name is Yulia Rovenskaya
I’m from Russia. My volunteer job in Ghana was the best experience I have ever had. People in Ghana are unique and extraordinarily friendly. The opportunity gave me a chance to immerse myself in African culture. The intersection with local people and opportunity to live with them helped me to understand the uniqueness of this nation. The biggest reward was being able to relate to people from another country.
My Time in Ghana
When I arrived, Emmanuel of Child Survival Aid Ghana met me at the airport and picked me up in a prompt way. My apartment was comfortable. There was everything: a big and soft bed, fun, washroom and Wi-Fi.
The lifestyle in Ghana is unpretentious. You don’t need a lot of things. Water, which is a main part of life, is achievable for locals. Local people are friendly and peaceful. I felt comfortable all the time. Everyone respected me and tried to make my holidays fun.
Emmanuel spent free time with me and showed me the city. We went to Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Blackstar Square, James Fort, Usher Fort, and other national attractions places.
“The intersection with local people and opportunity to live with them helped me to understand the uniqueness of this nation. The biggest reward was being able to relate to people from another country.”
I was placed at Dellac Outreach School where I taught children the English language. They taught me how to be an African woman. The children attained a high level of knowledge very fast. The upbringing of children in Ghana is good. They start to learn English from 1-3 years old. They showcased me their skills every time. I spent 5 or 6 hours a day with the children. That was a fascinating period of my life.
I tried to give children knowledge about the world–how big it is and how many opportunities there are. I told them all the time that if you grit your teeth and show real determination, you will always have a chance. They made a concentrated effort to listen each my word.
Needs of Ghana’s Children
One of the important thing that I can advise, if you go to Ghana as a volunteer, try to bring as many pencils as much as you can because this is the necessary thing for all children.
Never Seen It Before
One great experience was preparing and eating the local food at school and together with my friends in Ghana. I have never seen anything like it before. I liked Banku and Fufu. That was awesome! Every day I bought tropical fruits, the cost of it were so cheap! If you go to Ghana, you will never have lack of food.
During my time as a volunteer, I gained new experiences and lots of new friends. Afterwards I have kept in touch with teachers and pupils, and I hope I will be able to go to Ghana again. I have a great spirit of taking care of these children. I recommend you Child Survival Aid Ghana to you and find more then 1-2 weeks because the time flies fast in Ghana.
