The All Country Conference (ACC2025) hosted in Kenya school of governance Nairobi from the 15th – 20th June 2025 under the theme Ubuntu In Action, captured the very essence of what CorpsAfrica stands for – Connection, Learning, and Empowerment. Meeting volunteers from 11 African countries reminded me why we serve. We are not just implementing projects; we are nurturing a Pan African community grounded in empathy and innovation.
The breakout sessions equipped us with practical tools. But it was the personal moments, such as conversations over meals, shared laughter while dancing, and quiet reflections, that left the deepest impression. I returned from ACC2025 recharged, inspired, and fully aligned with our collective mission.
Top 5 Moments That Defined My ACC2025 Experience
- Wearing our vibrant traditional attire, I stood with pride beside my fellow sisters as we celebrated our cultures. The night overflowed with laughter, music, and unity. That memory will always live in my heart.
- Marching in with the South African flag as others waved theirs gave me goosebumps. It was more than a visual celebration. It proved that unity across borders is real and powerful.
- There was also a time during one session, I stood up and spoke. Not just for myself, but for the countless rural youth dreaming of change. Wearing my CorpsAfrica shirt, I felt honored to represent Emkhambathini and my community.
- From singing in different languages to sharing light-hearted jokes over lunch, I found a new kind of family across borders. We laughed, learned, and bonded in ways that words cannot fully capture.
On the final day, we sat together during dinner . There were no titles or roles. Just people reflecting on purpose and experiences in their service. I laughed. And I remembered why I chose this journey.
- Sharing space with volunteers from across the continent removed every imaginary boundary. Despite serving in different communities, we face similar challenges such as youth unemployment, food insecurity, and gender inequality.
A Malawian Volunteer told me, “If we all return home and light our corners, the whole continent will glow.” That quote now lives in my mind every day and guides how I show up in service.
Before ACC2025, the daily challenges in my community project were starting to weigh me down. But the conference reignited my purpose. Seeing other volunteers innovate with limited resources reminded me that impact does not wait for ideal conditions. It only needs passion and consistency.
We are no longer asking for a seat at the table. We are building the table ourselves because we are the generation that is shaping the present.
Since returning, I have come to understand that I am part of something big, the importance of serving my country, I now know that I am amongst thousands of other young volunteers who are dedicated to serving to see their rural communities driving development and being the change they wish to see. I am inspired and motivated
ACC2025 was more than a conference. It was a turning point in my service journey. It showed me that a girl from KwaNyavu can stand confidently with changemakers from across Africa. I am not alone. We are not alone.
My biggest takeaway is that together, we are Africa. We are rising. We are rooted. We are resilient. We are young. The spirit of umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu.
