My name is Joke Lannoye and I am a student from Belgium. I got to know Maji Mazuri through this website by randomly surfing the web. I was looking for a good internship place, as part of my Master in Cultures and Development Studies. I sent the organisation an email, and soon they brought me in touch with a Portuguese girl who previously volunteered with MM. Her story convinced me even more to go to Nairobi. And without any regret! I had a fantastic and instructive period during my time with Maji Mazuri. I spent most of my time in the children’s home in Kasarani, where I supported the local staff with the daily care and treatment of the children and assisted in the organisation of activities for them. Part of the mission of the children’s home is to include all sort of children with different backgrounds and different challenges or needs. This way, the children work together and support each other where necessary. Seeing them helping each other in many different ways (feeding, washing, supporting, protecting,…) was one of the most beautiful aspects of the children’s home for me. Every child, able or disabled, had another child who it was taking up responsibility for. I noticed a lot of respect of the children for each other, and it sometimes even felt like I was making the distinction between ‘able’ and ‘disabled’, but not the children themselves or the staff! Furthermore, I really admire the centre for providing what’s necessary with very limited resources.
Nairobi itself is an odd place, I loved it and I hated it at the same time. The huge difference between rich and poor in the city really struck me, but the enthusiasm, dedication and positive attitude of Maji Mazuri in an area like Mathare are amazing and inspiring. Living together with other volunteers in the office in Ngumo also made this period to an interesting and great experience. I met people from all over the world, coming to Nairobi with similar spirit and intent. I am very glad I got the chance to meet the staff and the different projects and be part of the international Maji Mazuri network, or better, family!
Going back to Nairobi is on top of my priority list, and I hope to continue supporting Maji Mazuri, in one way or another!
