Some SMUS Senior School students traveled to Tanzania over Spring Break to engage in some service work through the Me To We program. Bolton Boys, Toby and Joel, were the lone boys on the trip and by all reports represented Bolton and SMUS exceptionally well. I had a chance to chat with them about some of their experiences.

What was a highlight of the trip?

Joel – The safari was amazing! Seeing zebras, elephants, monkeys, wildebeest, giraffes not trapped in cages at a zoo, but in their natural habitat was a wonderful experience.

Toby – The culture is very special. The hospitality of the people is amazing. They are so enthusiastic and open. I also loved that they called me Jumbo! The kids were also so much fun and I really had fun playing with them. They are all so happy and made me feel so grateful for what I have because they have so little.

What service aspects were meaningful for you?

Joel – experiencing a long stay in a rural community was humbling. It makes me appreciate what I have and not take anything for granted. A long stay also gives you a different perspective of the community. Everyone is so kind and welcoming and always extremely helpful. It is important to me to try to connect with my African roots and it is always an eye-opening experience when I visit.

Toby – I constantly reflect on the walk for water. We went with some mommas and carried a 20 L jug for a mile and to think they do that several times a day then walk over three miles to the market to get their food. We are so lucky to have such easy access to water and food. The experience also made me not want to consume as much as I do. I really want to try reduce the amount of waste I produce and lessen the impact I have on the environment.

I also learned how there is not just one story of Africa. I had certain expectations of what I would see over there but it is a huge place with so many people and many different stories.