2017 Trip – 21 July

Anna Waddington

Jambo! This morning we got up early to have breakfast because we were going to visit our first primary school. I forgot to tell you last night, we infiltrated another camp group at the park. This American group leader was dared by the students to come over and speak to us so then we went over to them and joined the squad! We even got offered soup! Anyway, the school was about a forty minutes drive away and we took mutatoos to the school which is a small minibus. We couldn’t take the truck to the school because we went off road and the truck wouldn’t be able to handle the bumps. All the way down the road people were waving at us. When we got to the school, the elder children were waiting for us in traditional dress and they did a dance for us. It was amazing and really colorful. We went to each classroom and gave each kid a pen or a pencil and they were over the moon. Then we stood outside with them and I took some pictures of them and you should have seen their reaction when they saw the picture. They went crazy because obviously they’d never seen that before. They also really love to give high fives. At about half eleven we went park to the campsite where we had dinner. Then we got ready to go to a market. Three hours later- The market was amazing! I bartered for my goodies it was awesome. I got a man down from thirty five to twenty five thousand shillings, people were coming to me for help, it was mint. Then we went to the supermarket to get more water, and I got a chocolate bar and it was delicious! J Love to you all at home, missing you loads especially Lucy! <3

 

Joe Readshaw

After yesterday I managed to have a much better sleep, it was a bit of a struggle to get up this morning. We got up at around seven to eat breakfast and visit our first primary school. Rather than our normal truck we traveled there in a small van which was very cramped, at the school we visited the different classrooms after the students gave us a traditional dance as a welcome, they also sang us a few songs. We handed the top three students in each class prizes as well as all the students pens and pencils which they seemed very happy and excited about. After the school visit we looked at the teachers homes which have been improved drastically over the years. We had lunch quite early today to visit the market and try to find some bargains.

 

James Proud

Today we visited Meserani Chini, which is a primary school about 30 minutes away, and we took mutatu. They were very cramped so we got to know the person next to us pretty well. The school itself was amazing and the children again were so welcoming. I must admit, I’ve been so surprised by how kind everyone has been to us. For example, when we first arrived the children greeted us with a traditional Maasai dance, which was beyond words. We gave pens to the upper years and pencils to the lowers years and when we took the pencils out the kids gave a collective gasp. I keep saying everything is amazing but everything is.

Later on, we visited a market and tried some bartering. I bought a scarf, blanket, and some paintings. I paid quite good prices but I still feel somehow robbed. The scarf I’m wearing like a Sheik’s headdress so I’ve become Sheikh James.

 

 

Daniel Jones

After waking up and having a shower we went to a primary school called Meserani Chini where we went around the school giving out pens we then got the opportunity to go to any room and talk to the kids this was very enjoyable as after a minute of being in the room they were gathering around and we got a couple of pictures with the class. Visiting the school has been my favorite part of the trip so far. We also while there got to see a Maasai dance which was indescribable. After leaving the school we had lunch and went out to the market where I attempted to barter but failed to do so but I did get some good things. We then came back to the camp for tea and are staying in for the night. Loving it still and cant wait for the days to come.

 

Josef Ramsay

Jambo everyone!

Yesterday we woke up at Snakepark for our first full day; it was a jam packed day as we were sorting out the supplies we brought over for the schools, medical centre and the Snakepark camp. It was a long process that took up most of the day but it was great to see how much equipment was going to these places that needed it so desperately. There was everything from sports kits, pens, pencils, bandages etc. We went to go to the clinic to give them there equipment and seeing all of the children there with snake bites, infections and burns were awful, some of the stories you hear are awful. After spending some amazing time with them we winded down for the night ready for a busy day today.

Today we were going to our first school, Meserani Chini. When we arrived at the schools we were met by a group of Massai children who were performing a traditional Massai dance, it was so amazing and bizarre to see. We spent most of the morning engaging with the kids and getting to know them, after a bit of time with the kids we went round to all of the class rooms and give out the pens that Jill had give me (make sure to tell her I got plenty of photos for her) to the senior classes and pencils to the two youngest classes.

In the afternoon we went to Arusha to go to our first market, although I have been before it was still crazy seeing how manic it is, I still haven’t lost my bartering skills as Abi and Georgia had me doing it for them and myself( even though they said I was going to low). Its strange seeing this completely different lifestyle here and it did get difficult for some people when there were people telling them how difficult life is through the school interviews and the market sellers. I’ve been doing well and am getting on really well with everyone, Abi is getting jealous because me and Joe carter have hit it off, bless her. Hope all is well; I am having an amazing time and looking forward to every new day.

 

Ameer Ali

Today I woke up earlier than the others to get a shower and to get ready for our big day; we visited Meserani Chini primary school which is one of the desperate school we sponsor. When we arrived to the school we got a surprise arrival of the pupils doing an entertainment of there culture, it was very interesting. Afterwards, they all gathered around us to sing their national anthem- to then went to the classrooms to visit each of the years from bottom to the top. I then got involved with the dance what they put on and I have a video to show you guys when I get back home. We then went to the Market to see and buy some items, I may have bought you guys some may not… now I am currently waiting for our tea and then of to the bar.

Love you all x.

 

Jack Beckley

Today we went to Meserani Chini primary to meet all the children and hand out prizes and pens and pencils to al the students. When we arrived they danced and sang all the way to the school. After visiting all the classes we were led outside to the field and we joined in dances with them which was really fun. Then we went to the market and bought presents and I have bought nearly all the presents I need including some things for myself. Today was really fun and I enjoyed it. Missing all of you, love you all,Jack.

 

Abigail Pentney

Hi!

Today was the best day yet by far! We went to Meserani Chini Primary School and it was amazing! We got there in matatus which are small minibuses and it was so cramped and dusty but so fun; I was sat with the first ever pupil to be sponsored by the Meserani project who came to translate for us. I got to interview the top three children in their last year to go to the committee for the meserani project, who decide which children get sponsored. Some of their stories were heartbreaking; one girl called Anna told me both her parents died and they wanted her to herd cattle and goats after primary school. It made me realize how much we take education for granted. All the children did a Maasai dance on our arrival and we got to join in. The kids were so cute, they wanted to shake all our hands and take photos with us. We gave each pupil in the school a pen or pencil and it was great to see how much it meant to them.

After lunch, we went to the Maasai market in Arusha and I got some more elephant trousers (and other bits!) Some people got ripped off big time! But I think I bartered quite well, even though I realized I was arguing over about twenty pence.

The group is amazing and I’m having a fabulous time. Hope you’re enjoying the best day of the year and are all packed for Majorca tomorrow! Have a good start to the holidays. Love you all lots,

Abi xxx

 

Erin Williams

Today was my favourite day so far as we visited Meserani Chini primary school in the morning and it was amazing meeting all of the children as they were all so sweet and excited to see us. When they all gathered around us and getting high-fives and handshakes it was insane but I felt like I didn’t deserve all that attention but it was still great to see that we were making them happy somehow. They took my camera and I taught them how to use it and they seemed fascinated by our watches. It was amazing to see their faces when they saw themselves in the cameras so I can’t wait to visit the others. There were also Maasai people dancing which was fascinating to watch. Then in the afternoon, we visited the Arusha market and it was nerve racking to begin with as all the store people were very forceful but soon enough it was really enjoyable to talk with all of them and (with help) I think we did quite well the the bartering – I’m looking forward to going again. Today has been amazing but I think it’s the most tired I’ve felt despite getting a good night’s sleep. I’m still in a great mood thanks to my friends here though and today has been so good I can barely explain. I‘m missing you all so much and I’m looking forward to seeing you all again. Lots of love, Erin x

 

Rebecca Henderson

Today has been a very fun day. In the morning we went to the Meserani Chini Primary School, all the children were so sweet and excited to see us. We were high-fiving them and holding their hands. When we took pictures of them they were so amazed to see themselves on the pictures. When we started handing out the pictures they were in awe. It’s really hard to describe everything that happened at the school because so much happened but it was amazing. In the afternoon we went to the market and had to barter for stuff. It was scary but actually really fun. I could a couple good things and we get to go back again next week. I can’t wait to give out presents when I get home; I’ve got something really lovely for you mum so I hope you like it. I managed to get some help from Anna, otherwise I would have probably been ripped off. I also managed to get a bracelet for free. I was trying to get through as quickly as possible as it was quite intimidating, David had to do some bartering for me as well. He managed to get me some very nice elephant trousers and some shorts that are similar. I’m now also walking about everywhere with my own Maasai Blanket. Matthew I hope you’re ready for your already used present. Love you all lots xxx.

 

Polly Dowdle

Yesterday and this morning we got to wake up at 7:30 which now feels like a lie in. We went to Meserani Chini primary school where we met all the children – some of which were nearly adults because they started primary school so late. They performed tribal chants in Maasai attire

 

Rachel Smith

So it was the first school visit today to Meserani Chini. I can’t count how many kids I’ve high fived. I was so surprised to see the huge smiles on most of the kids faces despite their circumstances. It’s the only school for miles so some pupils have to walk like 2 hours just to get an education. Most of the classrooms didn’t even have windows and a lot of the kids in the different classes are much older than they should be if they started school at the right age. Because of family problems etc. a lot don’t start until they are much older after they’ve worked herding cattle or farming. Despite everything that is in their way the kids with the help of the Meserani Project manage to get an education to give them a better future. It was really inspiring to see and it certainly made me realise how lucky I am at home to have so many opportunities, I’ll stop complaining about how indecisive I am about careers and start appreciating the choice. I absolutely loved meeting all of them and I can’t wait to meet more.

Once again, loving it here and missing everyone and all my home comforts haha. Hope you’re all having a good time x

 

Ellie

Today we went to the first school we would be visiting Meserani Chini, a small remote primary school. I was surprised to be greeted with traditional African dancing by the school children it was beautiful and exciting and there outfits were perfect. while the others in our group went to hand out pens to class rooms me and three others had to interview some of the top students to see if they could be a next option for the charity to sponsor. I was surprisingly emotional when one of the girls we interviewed said that she was to be married immediately after primary school. Once we walked out all the kids swarmed around us asking for high fives I found it so great even though i am normally antisocial. Again they danced for us and I joined in it was great fun, especially one of the generous girls gave me a giant neck piece to dance in, I felt so welcomed. so I want to thank my family back home for allowing me the opportunity to go on this trip.

I’m currently heading to the market to buy some souvenirs and water I’ll see you, I miss and love you all x…

 

 

Sam Matthewman

Hi folks! Yesterday evening was good, we just sat in the bar and had a laugh. This morning I was able to have another shower so I have been feeling quite refreshed. We travelled to the first primary school today which was amazing. All the children were welcoming and we got a welcoming dance and traditional songs from the students. We all went round the classrooms and handed pens and pencils out, then we saw them outside and shook hands and took some great pictures. It was a fantastic experience to see all the children so enthusiastic. The classrooms were not the best, but we saw some of the work the Meserani Project has helped to do. I am looking forward even more to the other schools we will go to now. This afternoon we went to a market and got our money exchanged. I bought some presents and bought a wooden giraffe, but it is bigger than my others so I will have to find another place to keep them all. The market was definitely different to other ones we have been too, but there was some great gifts and souvenirs. Also, I treated myself to a chocolate bar and it tasted great. We are at another school tomorrow and we are nearly a week into our trip. I hope you are all good and are missing me.

Lots of love, Sam x

 

Stephanie Julier

I didn’t write about yesterday because I was really tired. So yesterday we sorted all the stuff for the schools and clinic, the clinic was heart breaking too see. It’s incredible! One boy had 3^rd degree burns all over his head and was still smiling at everyone and everything. We then had pasta for dinner and as always the food is amazing. The Chefs here are so kind and you can talk to them whenever you want. Today we got up and got in a Mtatu to drive to a primary school called Meserani Chini. Again I loved every second! We gave out pens and pencils to every class there and their faces when we gave them it was amazing but also very sad at the same time, because we take pens and pencils for granted but it’s like Christmas has come for them. Then we presented prizes to the top 3 students of every class. The prizes consisted for T-shirts, Pens, Bottles, Notepads and stationary sets. I’m looking forward to the other schools we meet. After seeing the school we went to the messai market. I bought a few things and I’ve got Jaydens birthday present, shh don’t tell him. I bought a couple other things and we’re going back again next week. The funny thing to do with the market was that you had to fight with the shop keeper for the price. I got a good bargin with Jaydens present and I really hope he likes it. Its our duty group today so we’re cleaning the bus but I’m writing this. I think for dinner we’re having Chicken which I have no doubt will be amazing as Wiki’s cooking is brilliant! I have also tried my first fanta pineapple and it’s now my new favourite drink!!!! I’ll write tomorrow but there is so much we are doing tomorrow so I might not. I love you and miss you all <3 !!

 

Lauren Dalton

After spending yesterday sorting out the school supplies, we’ve finally started our school visits. It was such a touching morning at Meserani Chini Primary School, and to see their faces light up when they received something as trivial as a pen was really moving. The children were even excited to get a wave or a high-five, and it made me think about just how lucky we are and that we shouldn’t take anything for granted. What the children don’t realise is that as well as us making their day, they made ours a whole lot brighter.

After lunch, we got some dollars changed into Tanzanian Shillings and were let lose in Arusha market for an hour. It was quite stressful as you have to negotiate prices to avoid being ripped-off, and all of the stall-keepers practically drag you into their stalls, but I still got some decent bargains, and I’m hoping to buy everyone gifts when we have a longer stint there next week.

Now that we’ve settled in Meserani Snake Park, it feels much more homely, and everyone is mingling in the bar (no alcoholic drinks allowed though) or around the campsite. I’m with some great people, and I already know that I’ve both strengthened existing friendships and made some great new friends. Don’t worry, I still miss you all terribly, and it’s less than 2 weeks now until we come home!

Love, Lauren xxx

 

Joe Carter

Hello everyone!!

After the busy day we had yesterday we finally had our first school visit and wow that was something special. We were all made to feel so welcome and everyone was so grateful for all that we gave them. I formed such a special bound with one young lad who was doing amazing in his studies as he was second I n his class and I really hope one day I or someone else is able to sponsor him and help him go through his full studies. As soon as we got there four of us were picked to carry out some interviews on children hoping to be sponsored and me and Abi were paired up and interviewed three different people with completely different backgrounds and stories, all of them were so emotional as one lost both parents to sickness and one who was only 15 years old might be getting married off meaning she wont be going on to continue her studies and she was 6^th in her class so she really is a bright kid but unfortunately she might not be supported. There was eight classes within the school so we gave the top three a prize for doing so well and all of them couldn’t stop smiling and that just made every ones day. During our visit we were treated to a traditional dance and that was amazing to see how they have been taught. Half way through the dance I saw the little lad stood alone so I walked over and took a picture and his cheeky face is so cute. His smile was infectious and he grabbed my hand and wouldn’t leave go, we started a dance and everyone got involved. If you haven’t already, look at the Kupenda Africa facebook and instagram page. Hope everyone is well and loking after my little pup.

Love Joe xxx

 

Georgia Linton

Hi everyone!

I’ve been thinking about Tanika and I hope she is ok and I hope if she’s had the baby she is ok! I can’t wait to meet her; I hate the not knowing because I don’t know how everything is. If you do see Tanika please tell her I was asking about her or tell her to look at the website… I hope everyone else is ok too, I’m missing the pugs!

Today has been the best day yet by far. We went to Meserani Chini School which was a primary school. It’s a very poor school, some of the kids had holes in their shoes and jumpers bless them. The class rooms were nothing, they had wooden desks in rows and benches were attached on them they were not very big and 6 people sat on one but it was better than what I expected. When we arrived at the school the highest year group called standard 7 done us a welcome dance and they sang it was amazing. The boys were jumping in the dance which meant which ever boy jumped the highest had first pick of the girls. Some of the younger ones were gorgeous they were only little dots and when we came they had to go in lines and the prefect kids in the school had rulers and were hitting the kids and dragging them by their clothes to get into line but honestly some of the kids were tiny, only babies so I found it hard to stand there and watch it. I felt like saying stop hitting them but obviously I couldn’t its their culture. We also went through an interview process with the standard 7 which is like year 6 so they were going into secondary school and the top 6 of each class were interviewed. We asked them about their life and ambitions ect. I met a girl called Sinyati who I interviewed and when I asked her problems she told me her dad has her a man if she doesn’t go to secondary because she needs sponsoring. She held my hand all day and she even told me at the end of the day she loved me. She was a precious child there was something about her. I’m hoping and praying she goes to secondary and doesn’t get married of!

We also went to the market today to buy a couple of things and we had to barter with them and bring the prices down because they do rip you off which wasn’t easy and they beg and grab you to look in their little shop. It was a great experience but I find everything amazing but I always cant help look at the down side and think these people are desperate and the kids have nothing and what are they going home to. We watch adverts but when you see it first hand its really heartbreaking but I have had a great day!

I love you all so much and its less than 2 weeks til I come home which has flew! Love G xxx

 

Olivia Sharrocks

Hi missing you all so much. Today we went to our first primary school called Meserani Chini the children there were so lovely and just wanted to hold or stroke your hands. They loved to sing heads shoulders knees and toes once you taught them the words and showed them the actions. We then gave all the children pens and pencils so they could use them for school and they got so happy just to see a pen. After we went outside they sang their traditional chant which we all got involved with dancing around together. The younger children were stood outside and wanted to get pictures with us then they wanted to see the pictures as they haven’t seen themselves before. On the afternoon we went to a traditional market where you have to barter with them for the ideal price that you want which was hard but I got Joe to help me get a lower price. I hope you are having fun in America and Connor I hope your having fun at home miss you all so much and less than two weeks till I’m home.

Love you all so so much liv xx