I have always hated carrying things on my head, whether a bag or a basin. The thought alone made me uncomfortable. It always looked painful, and I could never understand how people managed it so effortlessly. Back home, I avoided it altogether. I preferred carrying things in my hands, even if it meant struggling more.

That changed when I arrived in my community as a CorpsAfrica Volunteer. Going to the maize mill became a normal part of life. Everyone carried their goods, bags, and basins on their heads without breaking a sweat. Meanwhile, I was always the one with aching arms, switching hands every few steps, clearly out of place. I felt embarrassed, but I still resisted the idea of trying to carry anything on my head.

One day, a kind woman in the community offered to help. She placed the basin on my head, guided me through the steps, and walked with me. I was shaky at first, but her encouragement made a difference. Trip by trip, I slowly gained balance and confidence. Now, I carry things on my head like I’ve done it all my life. It’s still not perfect, but it’s no longer a struggle. More importantly, it’s a small example of how much living in the community has changed me. I’ve become more open, more willing to try, and more patient with myself.

What started as something I avoided turned into something I’m proud of. Carrying loads on my head may seem simple, but to me, it’s a symbol of growth, learning, and the quiet strength I’ve gained from the people around me. This experience has reminded me that change doesn’t happen all at once, it’s built step by step, or in this case, trip by trip to the maize mill.