A love affair with Zanzibar
Zineb Benkaddour – a past volunteer from our Volunteer Teaching & Community Project In Zanzibar, Tanzania, gives us an inside view on her journey during her time with us…
“I really feel connected with you, even if I only had a short period of time with you.
I remember you as a beautiful, exotic continent.
You gave birth to a magnificent, extraordinary island called Zanzibar. I miss Jambiani deeply. I didn’t feel any solitude with the nature that surrounded me. The sound of the sea reminded me that it is one of God’s magnificent creations. Her lively sound, who said hello in the morning and goodnight in the evening. You did calmed and comforted me. I can picture the energetic children who’s faces were always smiling or screaming just for a little of my attention trying to understand the difference between our white and their black skin. They were unaware of our diversity, our communities and our western way of life.
This reminds me of a Quranic verse which is very close to my heart: `O mankind, we created you from a single pair, male and female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other.’
I visited you as a volunteer to teach and impact your inhabitants. I was surprised by the backwards impact and I hear you calling me back in your direction.
I embraced your rich Swahili culture that was formed by the interaction between Middle Eastern, Arab and Asian influences. I was enriched by your spoken language, your architecture and your spicy east coast cuisine. I learned about your lovely Swahili songs with Arab and Indian melodies, elegant African women wearing colourful Kangas that were made with their own creativity and extreme care. I learned so much from you, Africa. The people and environment had a great impact on me, emotionally and spiritually. I feel blessed that I had the opportunity to reflect on my stay and my own personal struggles in life. It has been a true life experience and life lesson!
You’re always in my heart.
Life is about moments!
To Toni: you are the reason those children are smiling. I still feel your positive energy. Keep up the good work.
To Dulla: thank you for getting to know your culture. Thank you for your stories and chats during biking.
To Rahima: sweet precious Rahima, you are so little and innocent in your own world. Your memory keeps you close to me. I miss you.”
This project base is on the beautiful East coast of Zanzibar Island, in a village set on a pristine stretch of coastline. In these amazing surroundings we invite you to join our experienced project team and other international volunteers in their noble work in various teaching and community projects.
For more information on our Volunteer Teaching & Community Project In Zanzibar, Tanzania, click here.
Or if Zineb has confirmed your decision to join us as a volunteer, email us at: info@africanimpact.com
