Click here to view album

For someone who had never been to Africa, coming to Ghana was understandably a culture shock but once I had adjusted to ‘African time’ and the Ghanaian way of life it was a truly welcoming culture, and I really enjoyed my time there. I taught in Nayorku, a village just outside Walewale in the Northern region. I was teaching P6, the top class of the primary school, with ages ranging from ten to twenty! It was really nice going to the north. As I walked or cycled around the town or village I would be met by cheers from the children of who often say 'how are you?’ and cheers when I would reply ‘I am fine thank you, how are you?’

The children that I taught were so much fun they would always have an endless list of questions and smiles on their faces. The teachers were just as friendly and appreciative of all the work that I did, it was a fascinating experience especially with the elections happening while I was in Ghana.

I found Ghana to be a very friendly place and always felt safe, even through the election build up and transition afterwards. I found the north of Ghana very welcoming and when it was time to leave, I was presented with a collection of gifts from the village chief and elders.

Walewale was a great place to stay as it was small enough to have a real community spirit - it has regular tro-tros(vans) and buses to Tamale and Bolga.

Also John, the coordinator in Walewale puts a lot of effort into everything he does and kept me laughing the whole time I was there! I’ve made some good friends and will definitely come back.

It is a worthwhile experience doing something like this, and if you come with an open mind and positive attitude it’ll be some of the best money you’ll ever spend.

(Volunteer period: November 15, 2008 to February 10, 2009).