In May this year, a group from St Joseph鈥檚 College embarked on a life-changing trip to Tanzania, encompassing cultural immersions at the School of St Jude, local markets and homes, and a visit to the Samaritan Village Orphanage. Two students, Sebastian O (Year 10) and Angus M (Year 12), shared their profound experiences at a Headmaster鈥檚 Assembly.
Sebastian鈥檚 narrative began with his pre-trip anticipation, fuelled by past student stories and his own dreams of seeing African wildlife. However, the reality of his journey provided more than just scenic memories; it offered a deep educational and cultural awakening. From the surprise of seeing young children leading cattle along a road to a visit to a local goat market, his initial cultural shock morphed into an understanding of the socio-economic contrasts between his life in Australia and the daily struggles in Tanzania.
鈥淚 have come back with a greater appreciation for all the little things, like drinking the tap water,鈥� said Sebastian.
One of the pivotal moments for Sebastian was the visit to the School of St Jude. Witnessing firsthand the impact of education and seeing how the school thrived on a modest budget significantly shifted his perspective. This experience highlighted the power of philanthropy and the tangible impacts of direct charity work, as seen in the efforts of Australian humanitarian, Gemma Sisia, who established the School of St Jude in Tanzania in 2002.
Another highlight was the safari, as the boys travelled to Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. 鈥淚nside was a scene out of a nature documentary 鈥� We saw every African animal you could think of, including lions, elephants, zebras, hippos, water buffalos, leopards 鈥� [it] was land untouched by humans,鈥� recalled Sebastian.
鈥淚t truly was a life changing trip none of us will ever forget.鈥�
Lessons in gratitude
Angus鈥檚 reflections bring to light the emotional and humanitarian insights gained from interacting closely with the local community and students. His visit to students鈥� homes, particularly the humble abode of a young boy named Allen, emphasised the stark realities of poverty but also showed the extraordinary hospitality and gratitude of the hosts, despite their limited means.
Angus described Allen鈥檚 cinder block house as no larger than some bedrooms, without any proper windows, door, utilities and a floor consisting of a tarp, yet 鈥渉is mother met us with a welcoming smile and a warm heart 鈥� she couldn鈥檛 express her appreciation more for the opportunity her son had been given [to] improve not only his own life, but that of his family. Despite their situation of serious poverty, [she] still generously offered us tea and nuts as welcoming gifts鈥�.
The Samaritan Village Orphanage visit was another eye-opener for Angus and his peers, revealing the resilience and joy of children who face considerable adversities. The joy that simple gifts, such as football boots, brought to these children was a poignant reminder of the disparities in wealth and opportunities, yet also an insight into the universal joy shared among children.
鈥淚t was a place of happiness, and all the children, despite their heartbreaking backgrounds, greeted us with wide smiles and laughter. The staff there were truly passionate about their job, and the children they cared for,鈥� said Angus.
鈥淥ne thing I will never forget would be the joy on the faces of the children when we put their new boots onto their feet. Once the boots were on they refused to take them off!鈥�
Broadening perspectives
Both students, and the other 糖心Vlog boys on the immersion, came back with memories and life lessons that will shape their outlook and responsibilities as global citizens. These experiences underscore the importance of empathy, recognition of one鈥檚 privileged position and the impact we can have through direct engagement and support.
Overseas immersions not only broaden students鈥� horizons but also instil a deeper appreciation for the basics often taken for granted, such as clean water or the security of a stable home. The trip reinforced the value of education as a transformative tool for change, both personally and within the communities the boys engaged with.
