As with all new experiences, I was really nervous to start my 9 week adventure with Open Arms. It was the first time travelling by myself and the first time being away from home for more than two weeks. However, Malawi is known to be the friendliest country in Africa and that is definitely true, especially true of Open Arms.
Neville, Jasmine and all the caregivers at Open Arms made me and all the volunteers feel welcome, comfortable, valued and loved. Whether you are there for 1 week or 10 weeks, you will be welcomed everyday with a smile and 'Muli Bwanji?' (how are you). You work alongside the caregivers everyday, and after time you see how essential the 'Mothers' are to the children.
These women are true saints. They work tirelessly to ensure the children receive the upmost care, attention and affection. Considering how little resources they have compared to the UK, they still manage to give the children a fantastic and healthy start in life. Babies arrive malnourished, weak, tearful and generally very ill. When it's time for them to return to their families or to the Open Arms houses,they are happy, healthy and confident individuals. By being there as a volunteer, you really do feel that you are part of the team and that your contribution matters. The care givers are so obviously happy in their work and that is no more evident than when they erupt into song, in celebration of a child being re- homed. I made so many friends who made my short time there, so memorable.
Older children who live in Open Arms houses and cannot for whatever reason go back and live with their relatives, get first class care and education. They even have extra tuition and IT lessons that Open Arms provide to ensure they have the best start in life. These children also get to go on excursions, like go on Safari and climb Mount Mulanji to give them things to look forward to and look back on.
Volunteering with Open Arms teaches you so much. You learn to be independent, to look after not only yourself but vulnerable babies and children, to work alongside other volunteers and permanent staff and most of all, not to take things for granted.
For those people considering volunteering with Open Arms, my advice is DO IT!
It will enrich your life. You will meet the friendliest of people who are so happy that you are visiting their country. You will feel that your efforts are making a difference to the children but most importantly , you will become part of the Open Arms family.
Your donation will help children in Malawi grow up healthy with the love of a family
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