Leah’s Trip to Kenya
Last month, Leah Jones, the Leah’s Trip to Kenya at the HOPE head office, took a trip to Kenya to visit with some of our agents and see first-hand some of the amazing projects that are being undertaken. While the trip was off to a rocky start with some missing luggage detouring to Paris, Leah still came back with stories and pictures and we wanted to share some of her experience . . .
What made you want to take a trip to Kenya?
I’ve been interested in visiting projects since I first started volunteering in the HOPE office four years ago. I spent a lot of time traveling and experiencing other cultures in my twenties and I always had a feeling it would remain part of my life. When Patricia (HOPE Executive Director) said she wanted me to go to Kenya, I jumped at the opportunity.
What were your goals for the visit?
My main goal was relationship building with our HOPE family on the ground and gaining a first hand understanding of day to day operations. I went to listen to them share success stories, challenges, project needs, and to take some photos along the way.
I understand the trip wasn’t without its challenges?
My bag got delayed in Paris and was returned to me two weeks later! I picked it up a few hours before flying out of Kenya and went home with a bag full of clean clothes. Very grateful for those who gave me some helpful items along the way!
Which HOPE agents did you visit?
I started in Nairobi visiting Hope & Bright Future Center and Hope Gateway Education Center. From there I traveled to Kitale to spend time with Bethlehem Children’s Care Center and Out of the Ashes. I did an overnight trip to Bungoma to visit Hope Transformation Center and then ended in Mombasa at Akae Dwelling.
What stories did you hear while there?
Lots! Hoping to highlight some of them in months to come.
What was travel like within Kenya?
There’s always traffic in the city, and a lot of speed bumps on the country highways. Most of my travel was by car or plane, but my favorite was going by piki (motorcycle taxi) in Mombasa.
Did you learn anything new while there?
I was surprised to learn how long I could go with just the contents of my carry-on purse. (But I will definitely be packing dry shampoo in my next carry-on!)
What was the highlight of the trip?
The best part for me was many of the conversations I had with members of our HOPE family. It was so nice to build friendships with the people I regularly email from the office.
Will you go back?
Yes! And I’ve been told by all of our agents that I need to stay longer next time!
Look for more stories from projects that Leah visited over the coming months!
