Pre-Service Training (PST) is truly the heart of the CorpsAfrica experience, providing volunteers with the tools and insights to thrive. As a CorpsAfrica Alumni, I can share how transformative PST was for me, shaping both my personal and professional growth in ways I never anticipated. Among the various training sessions, the Community-Based Training (CBT) fieldwork, discussions about the “danger of a single story,” and the principles of Human-Centered Design (HCD) stood out as particularly impactful. These experiences taught me resilience and flexibility, and also the importance of treating everyone with respect and empathy.
Before joining CorpsAfrica, I graduated in architecture with a degree and thought my path was set. However, during PST, I discovered that my education could be applied in many meaningful ways to benefit my community. One of my most memorable moments was living with a host family during training. At first, I was nervous about staying with strangers—wondering if they would accept me and what new experiences awaited me. But as soon as I saw their warm smiles and genuine excitement, my fears melted away. I realized how beautiful it is to connect with others, even though we are from different backgrounds.
As a training facilitator during PST, I experienced the power of participatory training. Engaging in hands-on activities like the Innovators’ Compass and community mapping allowed me to dive deep into local issues and understand the community’s needs better. Visiting schools and participating in discussions with teachers and parents opened my eyes to the importance of collaboration in creating positive change.
PST’s immersive approach is crucial for the success of CorpsAfrica volunteers in the field. Due to the delay in our registration process in Ethiopia, I wasn’t able to conduct fieldwork at my designated site. Instead, I served as an intern at a local NGO in Jimma called Development Expertise Center (DEC) as a Data Encoder intern. These organizations work on USAID projects. I worked on data encoding (DHIS) and also helped with advocacy campaigns for the Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) and Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) offices. I also worked on making the youth center active again. Additionally, I led sessions on functional literacy programs and assisted with workshops on life skills, entrepreneurship, business plans, and effective work habits.
To new volunteers, I want to say that the journey ahead will be nothing short of transformative. You will unlearn many things you thought you knew and discover new aspects of yourself along the way. Embrace the challenges and seize the opportunities that come your way; they will enrich your life and broaden your perspective. This experience is also a chance to connect with incredible people and organizations, building a network that will support you in your future endeavors. Remember, you do have the opportunity to make a real difference in your community—something not everyone gets to experience at a young age. The lessons and skills you acquire during PST will remain with you long after your service ends, guiding you as you continue your journey in life.