Seana Sheppard - Play Action International, Volunteer in Uganda

Volunteer in Uganda, 2023

“There is a word I could use to summarise my trip - mind-blowing; Uganda has my soul.”

Memorable moments

My most memorable moment in Uganda would have to be the water fight that we had on the first week. All volunteers were taking part in a play session and at the end we had a game with water, load of the volunteers got wet while having fun, started to fill up buckets and throwing them round each other and then the young people joined in and had cups of water throwing on us and the other young people. This was the most memorable moment as this was the first time all the young people were engaging with us despite the language barrier.

Culture

There is a big community culture and where they can rely and support each other though good and hard times. Young people in Uganda love to dance, play sport and just have fun.

Challenges

Having to place barriers in place with the young people when forming a relationship was a challenge. You did not want to negatively affect the young people once you leave but you also want to create a positive relationship.

Friendships to last a lifetime

I was so easy to meet new friend as we were all in the same boat and I enjoy taking to others. I have made friends for life and I cannot wait to see where the next adventure brings us.

Activities apart volunteering

We spent weekends at the Adrift hostel where we were able to take part in different activities, had time to relax, reflect and contact to our families back home. Some of the activities I took part in was bungee jumping, going into Jinja city, water sport and being able to swim in a pool in the hostel.

Advice

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. It is time to fill the soul instead of filling your pockets.