Kaya Responsible Travel

Ever since I studied abroad I knew I wanted to go abroad again, but I wasn’t quite sure how to make that possible. I have always been drawn into the poverty issues that Africa faces, so when I discovered that I could volunteer AND do it in another country, I was thrilled! Zambia drew me in because of the teaching program that was offered there and the opportunity to work with kids in this country that I knew very little about. It was intriguing for me to go to this unfamiliar place to volunteer, rather than the more common destinations that many others may choose.

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I was completing my MFA and had volunteered abroad before I started my MFA studies. This experience shaped so much of my master’s manuscript, which was dedicated to the international connectedness and wanderings of those seeking to see more in their lives. When I returned to the east coast, I saw a posting for a job with Kaya and felt that their vision and outlook was very special. I have a strong administrative background, and felt I could bring my skills and experience volunteering abroad to the table to help them integrate into the US market and advise students here. It seemed a wonderful thing to me to be able to help inspire others to do something that changed my own life, and that would also bring assistance to those in need worldwide.

I chose to volunteer abroad as I thought it would be such an eye opener to learn new cultures and new ways of living. I wanted to help others who aren't as privileged as me so volunteering abroad was the best option!