Greetings everyone,
After becoming a member of the NGO approximately a year ago, I eagerly anticipated the opportunity to visit Botswana. My wish was to gain a genuine understanding of our NGO's role within the local community and to contribute to our mission on the ground.
So two months already into 2024, that dream became a reality as I embarked on a journey alongside the two co-founder sisters of our organization, Isabelle and Melanie.
This particular adventure took the 3 of us from the bustling streets of Switzerland to the serene landscapes of Maun, Botswana, and it was an experience I'll never forget.
Our trip kicked off with a flight to South Africa, where we immersed ourselves in the beauty of Cape Town. From the iconic Table Mountain to the charming penguins at the peninsula's southern tip, every moment was a feast for the senses. My personal highlight was spotting dolphins dancing with the waves from our window — a magical experience that set the tone for the rest of our travels.
After bidding farewell to Cape Town, we made our way to Maun, Botswana — a land of endless horizons and boundless potential. The contrast was striking — no towering buildings, just vast plains stretching as far as the eye could see. It was a refreshing change of pace, and I couldn't wait to dive into our work with the local community. Our days were intense - filled with meetings, visits to local projects, and of course, an unforgettable safari.
Meeting with our local collaborators, Nonofo and Beauty, was a highlight of our time in Maun. Their passion and dedication to our youth empowerment project “Why wait” reaffirmed our commitment to creating long-lasting positive change. As we discussed the challenges facing the community, from access to clean water to educational opportunities for young women, I felt a renewed sense of purpose.
Visiting the Lehikeng elderly center was a reminder of the impact our projects were having on the ground. Seeing the elderly residents and the volunteers who cared for them filled me with a sense of happiness. The sight of the center's bus, which provided transportation for those in need, was a tangible symbol of the difference we were making in people's lives. And personally, was the project I saw and moved me to be part of The Small Village Botswana.
Our meetings with NCONGO the next day opened my eyes to the power of collaboration. NCONGO is an umbrella of collaboration for multiple NGOs and we were seeking for potential synergies. The exchange of ideas and resources left me inspired and hopeful for the future. It was clear that by working together, we could achieve far more than we can alone.
But it wasn't all work and no play! Our safari adventure was a dream come true, filled with awe-inspiring encounters with Botswana's diverse wildlife. From graceful giraffes to majestic elephants, each sighting left an indelible mark on my soul. And yes, I'll admit, there was a moment of excitement over what turned out to be a cleverly disguised tree trunk — oops!
Between the hustle and bustle of our busy schedule, there were moments of quiet reflection. As we drove back to the airport, the vastness of the landscape stretched out before us, prompting us to re-evaluate our vision for Small Village Botswana. We emerged from those discussions with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear roadmap for the future.
As we boarded our flight back to Zurich, our suitcases may have been delayed, but our spirits were soaring. The memories of our time in Botswana will stay with me forever, reminding me of the power of community, collaboration, and compassion.
With gratitude
Marina