Ebba in South Africa

Participant

Ebba

Programme

Volunteering

Country

🇿🇦 South Africa

Duration

6 weeks

Short bio

Hii, my name is Ebba, I’m 19 and I’m currently studying Global Sustainability Science at Utrecht University. I’m really sporty, so I love keeping active with things like hockey. I absolutely love travelling and discovering new cultures, and I’m a real children lover. I’m also always up for a good time and can talk all day long about anything and everything.

How satisfied were you with the support from Holland?

I was very happy with the support from Holland. Ruben is a really lovely person and has an answer to all your questions; you can always turn to him. He’s interested and involved, also during and after my time in South Africa, which was really nice.

My story

“You’re really needed, and that’s why your work is hugely appreciated in every way.”

Ebba · volunteering in South Africa

After finishing secondary school in 2023, I decided I wanted to take a gap year to develop myself further. No sooner said than done, and before I knew it I’d had the best year of my life, including 6 unforgettable weeks (July-August, 2024) in South Africa. I came into contact with The Power of Sports through a friend of mine who had done it herself. I heard so many good stories that I couldn’t resist going myself.

When I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by the staff and the other volunteers, who became friends for life in no time. You’re together every day, so you experience everything together. Sharing such a special experience brings you really close and is something you don’t normally get to experience just like that.

Working with the children is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever experienced. You’re really needed, and that’s why your work is hugely appreciated in every way. That’s really the mindset everyone carries with them; putting a smile on a child’s face is what you do it for. Personally, I did coaching, teaching and childcare, and I’d definitely recommend trying a bit of everything. That way you really experience what everything is like and where your preference lies. Be open to everything; that’s how you get the most complete and unforgettable experience.

On top of that, I got to experience lots of other wonderful things: I made local friends, got to see beautiful places in South Africa (the Garden Route is an absolute must!!), learnt LOADS and did the craziest things (the skydiving really does deserve a mention). Besides the work, you have plenty of free time, and there are lots of activities (some organised by the organisation) nearby or at the accommodation to keep you entertained.

I have the best memories ever from this adventure, which is why it was so hard to say goodbye; I’d have loved to stay longer. I still miss the little ones and often think about them; they’ve got a special place in my heart. This is an experience I wouldn’t have missed for the world, and I’d do it all again without a doubt