You want to go where?
4 parents share their views on their daughter’s travels to Knysna, South Africa
"I had grave misgivings about my only daughter spending several weeks in South Africa; the country itself had a reputation for crime and was not a place I would have chosen for her placement. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the organizational skills of the placement leaders and the attention to detail shown. Pardon the cliché, she left as a child and returned an adult, Emma has far more empathy with the orphans and disadvantaged of that remarkable country than she would otherwise have had. I would not hesitate in recommending the experience to other parents of perspective volunteers as this is undoubtedly the opportunity of a lifetime and not to be dismissed lightly. She was a very special daughter and remains so, but is a little more worldly wise for the experience." Father of Emma Hitchen, 2010 EDGE of AFRICA Work Placement student from Chester University, UK
“The accommodation is clean, their meals are provided, there are rules they must keep to and the placement is well organized. She has only good things to say about Roger and Dayne and all the other people involved with Edge of Africa. You only have to look at the website to see it is a well run organization and I have got to say I would have no qualms at all about my daughter going back to Knysna. I would ensure that in her luggage this time there are plenty of items for these children to use. So if your child is asking to go to Knysna let them go because they will come back with some fantastic memories but they will also have taken part in the African culture and celebrations as well as making some lasting friendships. One friendship she made has just resulted in a wedding invitation!” Mother of Emma Hitchen 2010 Work Placement student to Knysna from Chester University, UK
“Your child like mine, depending on what they choose to do on their time off there will see things that most of us only dream of doing. Things like walking with and feeding the elephants, visiting protected game areas where they can see anything from a snake to an owl, lying in the sand on a beach made in heaven that lies just behind their house, travelling to other parts and towns surrounding them, taking part in the African culture and celebrations, visiting the townships where life is grueling, sad and poor, where they can give of their hearts and help these children. Depending on what area they are going to work in they can give of themselves, to teach like my daughter did. Teach things like language, knowledge of their own home, which ours is Canada, teach sports to the kids, crafts, hygiene, help in the orphanages with the smaller children and most of all show them love, and care which many of these children know nothing of. In return, they receive self-satisfaction, growth as a person, knowledge of what the word poor really means, an understanding of another culture, religions, languages, barriers, and make new friendships that they will seal during their stay there and hold close to their hearts for a lifetime.
My daughter is now planning her third return to Africa this spring since her first adventure, with a longer stay in the progress this time. She has, I’m sure, many memories, which I haven’t even heard of yet in the back of her mind. They have already started their lists of things to take back with them this time for the kids. Things like the simple everyday things we take for granted, like sneakers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and clothes. Money is of no value to these children unless it is given to EDGE of AFRICA team, to distribute to the centre in a meaningful and sustainable way.
I would, as a very concerned parent would recommend this trip to any young volunteer that is looking for a fulfilling thing to do in their lives. To the parents I would say help your child to accomplish this dream, with the thought that the staff at the EDGE of AFRICA will care for your child like he or she is there own. Your child will return to you changed yes, but in every positive way. “
Madonna Goodyear - Mother of Sioban Goodyear, EDGE of AFRICA Community Volunteer 2009 & 2010 from Canada
“My daughter Lynn and I quickly realized that EDGE of AFRICA offered all of what she was looking for in her African experience. As she was only 17, my main concern was for her safety and support, as well as for the chance to achieve her dreams and live and work amongst the people and animals of South Africa. From the initial contact with Dayne and Roger, all our questions and worries were dealt with in a professional and friendly manner .Lynn’s projects were carefully selected to meet her needs, and her itinerary planned. As a parent I felt it was good that she could do several different projects all under the care of the one organization. From day one, emails flew back and fore between Lynn and Dayne developing their friendship and giving Lynn and insight in to what was ahead. From the day she arrived, until now, a year on, EDGE of AFRICA has been a part of her life. It has totally changed her outlook on life, inspired her to study for her future and completely widened her horizons. Their continuing support will not only always maintain her link with South Africa but I have no doubt will also hasten her return and am sure EDGE of AFRICA will play a large part in many more adventures for Lynn.
Glenys Munro - Mother of Lynn Munro, EDGE of AFRICA Wildlife & Conservation Volunteer 2009 from Scotland
Final thought from Madonna Goodyear of Canada…
“From Africa, I received back from this adventure a daughter whose greatest qualities have grown. One who has learned threw her experience the real meaning of poverty. A girl who has grown beyond every possible dream I could have ever had for her. A girl whose dreams have reached places that I have never seen coming. A young person whose adventure in Africa has had their mind opened to many possibilities in life and the things she wishes to accomplish in the future. A person who has seen the true meaning of sharing, giving and loving until it truly hurts. ‘A person who has left their heart in Africa.’ I am proud of my daughter for all she has done there to help these kids both in 2009, and 2010 and again this coming spring 2011. “
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