An experience of a lifetime
Posted by Bernadette Murphy | in Get Active! | 26 August 2010 | 0 comments
Christina Phelan, a student at Dunshaughlin Community school, joined a team of students and teachers to see Concern’s work in Rwanda first-hand. Here she tells us about her experience and how it has inspired her to make a difference.
Arriving in Rwanda
When I arrived in Rwanda accompanied by my teacher, Síle Ryan, and fellow student, Shane Dowling, I felt instantly blessed to be there. I got to go on the trip because my school was one of the best fundraisers for the Concern Fast last year.
Shocked
I had never heard about the Rwanda genocide until I was in Rwanda. I felt shocked that when it was going on I was alive and I had never heard anything about it or helped in any way.
Spirit of Rwanda
I was amazed by the positivity and happiness of the people in Rwanda. They made me realise that although we have so much, in some ways we have so little; and although the people of Rwanda have so little, in another way they have so much.
Inspired
I felt deeply affected by the primary school that we visited. I left feeling emotional and touched. The students were such an inspiration to me. I want to keep studying so that I will be able to use my education as a way to help people in the future.
Making a difference
Since the trip, I am more eager than ever to raise money for people less fortunate than myself. I am also very determined to return to a developing country in the next five years with funds from the developed world.
Giving something back
The community health workers and the entire community were a real example to me. It is my dream to be able to give something back to them. I would like to thank Concern for the opportunity to experience the work they do in Rwanda. It was an experience of a lifetime.
Tags:
Post a comment