I always thought this would be a good experience, but my expectations were exceeded. I left Italy with an idea of a program that I should have done, but during the orientation program, it was changed. Of course, initially, I was worried because the new project was all in my hands. I mean, the only person who knew something about first aid was me, so I had all the teaching responsibilities. But maybe for this reason and my initial fears, the experience was super. Thanks to my local volunteer team, I could explain to students the basics of first aid.
Furthermore, I had a doubly satisfactory because I found them interesting despite the challenging context.
I felt every day grateful for their attention, their questions, and the opportunity to bring them a little knowledge about one of my passions. I loved being placed in a rural zone outside Kathmandu so much because I could live many experiences.
For example, I could see the real context of schools in villages. I have difficulty reaching schools when it’s raining or just has rained for a long time, and I can’t walk because of the mud. Once, for example, the three local volunteers had to ask for a passage by truck because the road was impracticable by walking. It was a very real experience, and I enjoyed it so much because I could feel the generosity and the caring for others that characterizes Nepalese people.
Sometimes it was impossible to come back home for lunch, so I also had experience with the local food.
Thus I tried the school cafeteria, or the handmade mono of one “restaurant” across the street to the return, which was composed only of one table, one water carafe, and Nepalese people chatting with each other. It was a great experience because I could immerse myself in the real community. Last but not least, the people I met in WBC or VIN left me with a lot of emotions, too, thanks to their hospitality and stories/teachings about Nepalese culture that allowed me to begin to know this nation better.
Member of