SENIOR IC TRIP: From the 28th of January to the 1st of February 2013

From the 28^th of January to the 1^st of February, the ISK seniors went on an intercultural trip to the Kenyan coast. This trip included all the CAS aspects, as there were many activities available to us, ranging from action to creativity, and passing by service. On the Creatively speaking, we had the chance to witness and experience some beach art. As for the activity aspect, we went snorkeling and diving. As for the Service aspect of the trip, we excavated the foundation for the emergency ward in the local clinic and we also worked on the tree nursery. Adding to that these activities gave us the opportunity to interact with the local community.

From the very first day of the trip, we met with local community as we went outside of the camp to learn about coconut processing and making makuti. I loved that part of the trip as I am a fan of coconut and we were able to taste it. We learned that the coconut is very important to the community as it can be used for many reasons. Not only is it used as a food source but it some of its components can also be used to make cooking oil, oil to rehydrate and nourish the hair, which I tried on, to clean shoes, extract coconut milk and the waste is used to feed animals like chickens. I was really surprised by the various uses of the coconut, as I was unaware of most of them before the IC trip. On that first day, we also learned how to make makuti, which is used for roofing purposes. We each made one piece of it. It was a complicated process but the result was worth it. I was impressed by how quickly the locals of the coast were able to make these pieces. At that point I understood the importance of nature in rural communities’ eyes as it provides them all necessities from roofs for their houses to a food supply.

On the second day, which was also the most exigent and difficult one for me, I spent my morning in the tree nursery where we learned how hard it is for a tree to survive in arid conditions. Using empty water bottles and sand, we helped continue building the tree nursery. I also helped mix cement, which we used to fix the bottles in the ground. However this was nothing compared to the afternoon, which I spent helping to build the foundation of a dispensary for the hospital near our camp. Under the afternoon sun, we shoveled the dirt that had to be removed form the site. Although it was a hard project to work on, at the end of the day I realized what a rewarding experience it was to be able to help and perhaps make a long-term change for this community.  

On the third day of the trip we had so much fun as we went on a boat and were able o go snorkel or dive. I saw dolphins for the first time in my life and it was probably the most amazing part of the trip for me. It was my second time diving and it was a memorable experience as I had the chance to see a giant sea turtle, table corals and many colorful fishes. I can honestly say that the marine life in the Indian Ocean is mesmerizing.

The fourth day of the trip was my favorite day from the whole trip. We spent the day at the beach. We started it by cleaning the beach, where I found some interesting and very unusual objects, including a toothbrush, a dress and even shampoo. I was proud of us as we filled several trash bags in a short amount of time. To be honest I was very shocked by the amount of rubbish we found. It saddens me that such a beautiful beach is subject to pollution. We also managed to collect a few flip flops, which we used to make bracelets, juggling balls, turtle and fish key chains, etc. 

The local artists walked us through every step until we finally got results. I personally made a juggling ball out of seven flip-flops. It was a very enjoyable experience, especially for me, as I appreciate art and creativity. Afterwards we had a beach barbecue, followed by an acrobat lesson and yoga on the beach. We ended the day by hanging out with each other. That night we ate at a delicious restaurant, which was a beautiful ending to a great trip! This trip was an eye-opener to me and I am very happy that I was given the opportunity to merge with the local culture as well as to contribute to the Kenyan coast.