When I first arrived in Belbur for my community-based training as part of my CorpsAfrica volunteership training program, I felt like I was stepping into another world. For two weeks, I traded my usual routine for life with a new host family, a family far from home, but one that welcomed me with open arms and a whole lot of love.

The homestead was rural and absolutely beautiful. One of the first things that struck me was the culture. Here, the adult men and boys don’t sleep in the same house as the father of the household. So, my host brothers and I had our own small house made of mud clay, called a Simba. It was cozy and cool, and it quickly became our hangout spot for late-night chats and laughs.

My days were filled with new experiences. I learned to milk cows, which is much harder than it looks, and helped take them to the cattle dip, a big communal pool where they get treated for ticks. It was all part of the daily rhythm of life, and I loved feeling like I was a part of it. I was also excited to start learning the local language, every new word and phrase made me feel more connected to my host family and the wider community.

One of the most memorable moments was attending my first-ever church sermon in Belbur. I was warmly welcomed by the congregation and even got the chance to introduce myself, which was both humbling and uplifting. It gave me a deeper sense of belonging and appreciation for the community’s faith and togetherness.

But the best part of my time in Belbur was the evenings. We would sit around, sharing stories and jokes until late, our bellies full from all the delicious food she’d prepared. I also got to enjoy Mursik – a traditional fermented milk that is not only refreshing but also a symbol of hospitality and pride in the community’s food culture. Every night, my host mum would gather us to pray together before bedtime.

My two weeks in Belbur flew by, filled with hard work and endless laughter. But it wasn’t just about the good times. During my stay, the family lost a loved one. Their sorrow became my sorrow, and their happiness became my happiness. Being there for them during such a difficult time made our bond even stronger. I came to Belbur for training, but I left with a new perspective, a full heart, and a family I’ll never forget.