The day of my deployment was one I had imagined many times, yet when it finally arrived, it came with emotions I hadn’t fully prepared for. I felt happiness, excitement, anxiety, and fear all at once. That morning, joy took the lead. I laughed freely, took pictures with my fellow CorpsAfrica Volunteers, and celebrated the beginning of a journey I had worked so hard to reach. In those moments, everything felt light and hopeful.
As we got into the vehicle and began the process of dropping Volunteers off in their respective communities, the mood slowly shifted. With every stop, the reality of deployment settled in a little more. Each goodbye made the journey feel more real, more permanent. By the time it was my turn, the excitement I had felt earlier was replaced by nervous anticipation. My assigned community was far, and the long drive gave my thoughts too much room to wander.
I tried to mask my anxiety with jokes and laughter, hoping to keep the mood light, but deep down I felt unsettled. The thought of starting over in a completely new environment away from everything familiar was overwhelming. When we finally arrived, shock barely captures what I felt. Seeing my room for the first time was emotionally difficult, and I struggled to hold myself together. As the team hugged me goodbye and prepared to leave, fear and loneliness washed over me. It was a moment that truly tested my courage.
That evening, I knew I couldn’t sleep in my room. I stayed with a colleague instead, trying to steady my emotions and gather myself. Yet, even in that difficult moment, kindness found its way to me. My host family welcomed me with open arms, warmth, and understanding. They went above and beyond to make me feel safe and cared for during a time when I needed it most.
My host father, in particular, took it upon himself to ensure my room was fit for me to live in. His actions spoke louder than words. It was then that I realized that adaptation wasn’t just about changing my surroundings it was about changing my mindset. I had to learn to appreciate the effort my host family was making and meet their generosity with gratitude, patience, and humility.
As the days passed, I began to settle into life in the community. I spent time observing, listening, and learning. One of the most impactful experiences for me was visiting the rice fields. There, I witnessed firsthand the strength and resilience of the women in Jula Kunda. These women work tirelessly, day after day, to provide for themselves and their families. Their determination left a deep impression on me.
Beyond the physical labor, what struck me most was their spirit. Despite the challenges they face, they carried themselves with joy. They shared prayers, laughter, and jokes freely, making space for me even as a newcomer. In their presence, I felt a sense of belonging that I hadn’t expected so soon.
Within just one week, the fear that once consumed me began to fade. The unfamiliar slowly became familiar. The people who were once strangers became family. It felt as though I had spent an entire year in Jula Kunda rather than a few short days. Through shared moments, conversations, and daily interactions, the community embraced me, and I, in turn, opened my heart to them.
My deployment taught me that service is not only about the work we come to do but also about the relationships we build and the lessons we learn along the way. Jula Kunda challenged me, grounded me, and welcomed me in ways I will never forget.
Today, I can confidently say that Jula Kunda is home.
