I did not know what to expect stepping onto the plane crossing the Atlantic Ocean. However, I did know that I loved to travel and was excited to serve with South African communities. My excitement surpassed the uncertainties associated with traveling to a foreign place. I am genuine when I say the three weeks I spent in South Africa will forever impact my life. Traveling to a different country can be a frightening experience into unfamiliar contexts but with support from GVI and ACE, it was easy to focus on the purpose of the trip making a positive impact in the world.
Working in the South African Early Childhood Development Centers (ECD) allowed me to understand pure communication, teaching children that did not know English and grew up in such different environments. Teaching sports to the VUSA youth members showed me how sport brings communities together and a medium for individual expression. Working with community organizations like “Ladles of Love” and “Bluemoon” enlightened me to the hard work and resilience necessary to achieve progress. Without organizations like them, there would be many under-resourced communities left to dry.
I came to understand that service is not just about giving but also about receiving – receiving the gift of perspective and understanding.
– Jaden Abas, Stanford Wrestling
The three weeks spent working with GVI and ACE left an indelible mark on my soul. The impact we made on the community was evident, but the transformation within myself was even more profound. Witnessing the strength and perseverance of the underserved community taught me the true meaning of gratitude. I came to understand that service is not just about giving but also about receiving – receiving the gift of perspective and understanding.
The journey across the Atlantic with GVI and ACE was a rollercoaster of emotions, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. Embracing the unfamiliar, with a focus on service, transformed my life in ways I could never have imagined. The support, knowledge, and connections made during this experience will forever stay with me, motivating me to be a more proactive global citizen.
The support, knowledge, and connections made during this experience will forever stay with me, motivating me to be a more proactive global citizen.
– Jaden Abas, Stanford Wrestling
If you ever find yourself on the brink of embarking on a life-changing journey, remember that fear may be a natural response, but the rewards of stepping into the unknown can be immeasurable. Embrace the uncertainty and let the transformative power of service guide you to a more fulfilling life.