The morning sun peeked through the windows, bringing with it a sense of excitement I hadn’t felt in a long time. Today marked my first full day living with my host family, and from the moment I stepped into their home, I knew I was about to begin a journey full of learning, laughter, and connection.
I was warmly welcomed by my host mother, her bright smile immediately making the house feel like home. My host father was away at work, but the warmth of the home was undeniable. They had prepared a generous meal, and during the meal, my host father said, “Placide, and I replied ‘’Karame’’! Eat well, you’ve come from far and you are hungry, and here we eat healthy.” In that moment, I felt that this family wasn’t just hosting me they were embracing me as one of their own.
The next morning, I joined my host mother for breakfast. After eating, we began washing the dishes. At first, she laughed and said, “No Nooo! No boys wash dishes!” But with gentle conversation and teamwork, I showed her that chores know no gender. We laughed, shared stories, and washed dishes together. Through these small, everyday tasks, I began to understand the rhythm and values of life in Musanze-Rugeyo.
During my first week, I also planned a one-on-one visit to explore the community. I crossed the road to meet some young men who are bicycle riders. With confidence, I greeted them, “Hello friends! Can you teach me how to ride a bicycle?”
They burst into laughter, teasing me, “Oooh, you look like a boss! You can’t do it!” But I didn’t let that stop me. I used the moment to create an engaging conversation. They shared stories about their lives and dreams, and I explained how CorpsAfrica works with youth to empower communities.
Their eyes lit up, and they said, “So far, you are a boss! But for us, buy a beer called ‘Ikigage.’” I smiled gently and replied, “Oh, with working together, all things are possible.” By the end of our conversation, they promised to join my new youth group, and jokingly started calling me “Placide CorpsAfrica.” I assured them, “I’m here for you guys. Let’s enjoy and work together for a better future!” We ended up laughing so much that they didn’t let me return to my host family right away.
Over the following days, my host family also helped me engage with the broader community. They introduced me to savings groups, community leaders, and other villagers. I attended meetings, observed projects, and learned about the collaboration and resilience that keep this community thriving. Every interaction, every greeting, and every shared laugh helped me feel more connected and integrated.
Through these two weeks, I realized that connection, care, and learning happen in the simplest moments: sharing meals, washing dishes, riding bicycles, and exchanging stories. These small acts of togetherness taught me more about community, empathy, and youth empowerment than I could have imagined.
Walking through the village, interacting with neighbors, and returning to my host family each evening, I felt gratitude, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. My journey in Musanze-Rugeyo is only beginning, but already, I feel that these moments, lessons, and connections will shape not just my volunteer service, but the way I see and engage with the world.
