As I reflect on my initial weeks in my community as a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, I am filled with gratitude for the warm welcome and opportunities to engage with the community. When I was coming here, I did not know what I would do, and I was scared because I have never been to the Northern region of Malawi before, where the people speak a different language from what I know. I cried when my Volunteer Liaison was leaving me, while hugging me, thinking of starting a new life where I completely knew no one. I was filled with gratitude for the warm welcome of my host parents and their openness. I felt at least relieved, even though some people would not talk to me because they could not speak Chichewa clearly.
Later that afternoon, my host mum told me to escort her to the village bank, where she is a member, to introduce me. I could see on her face that she was happy that I had come, because she greeted everyone and told them, “my daughter is here,” with happiness. From the VSL, we went to the Group Village Headman for a self-introduction, who was also happy to see me and told me that I should not go back home even after I finish the service. Learning my community’s local language was not easy, because they would use different words which would imply the same meaning, but that did not stop me from talking to people and starting conversations. I would even nod and smile if I could not understand very well. I went to several VSL groups and homes for self-introduction as part of integration. I initiated an empathy-building conversation with the community members and listened to their worries and problems. In addition, I went to Mayofya Primary School, where I met the headteacher for a self-introduction. I was happy that the headteacher received me warmly and discussed the issues he needed help with. He told me that I should be encouraging kids around the village to go to school, and he also invited me to have an awareness campaign on changes that happen during puberty to both boys and girls, and climate change, whilst teaching some other subjects to the people. I was happy that I now knew where I was going to start from. During this time, I discovered skills that I never knew I had before. I was thrilled to talk to the kids and discuss burning issues that caused stress to them. I created a safe space for them.
Despite everything, I have learned valuable lessons that will stay with me throughout my journey, including respecting local culture and traditions, and the need for patience and flexibility in community development work. As I continue to learn and grow with the community, I am excited to deepen my engagement and contribute my skills and knowledge to support their development. I am reminded that every small step counts. I invite you to join me on this journey to support community-led development, and help with your skills and time. Let us work together to drive community development, empower youth, and build a brighter future for Mwakisulu village.