Volunteer work in South Africa.

In July 2006 I went to do volunteer work in Durban, South Africa. I worked with children living in children's homes. Many of them had lost their parents due to HIV/AIDS.

I am blind, and I have been blind since birth. When I told people that I wanted to go to South Africa, they thought I was crazy. How could a blind person do that? I know I am able to do whatever I want despite that I am blind!

It was a great feeling of liberation and victory when I landed in Durban. I lived with other volunteers from all over the world, and every day we worked with the children. Both the children and the other volunteers very quickly accepted that I was blind. I played with the children, took them out for walks, sang with them and talked with them. Many of them suffered from traumas and lack of love and care.

For me it was such a privilege to be able to help them! I think that they gave so much back to me. I realised that my blindness was an advantage in this work. Since I know a bit about how it feels to be different, how it is to overcome obstacles etc. I could relate a bit to what the children told me. At times I must admit that it could be hard to be the only blind volunteer, but at the same time that was a learning experience.

For example, Durban does not have a good system for public transport. That meant if I wanted to go somewhere I had to organise a car ride. If I wanted something from the shop I had to make sure I told people in advance, so that they could organise to get it. I realised I had to plan my days very carefully. When I did so I had a great time! South Africans met me with a great respect and kindness! I still have contact with friends who I met there, and I hope to visit them soon. To work in South Africa was such a great experience, and this summer I want to do it again!