“Visiting the courts was pretty incredible. All of the pretty difficult stuff was made better by having Mildred with us. Being given access to the front seat in the court was such an experience. They’re quite small so you’re right in the middle of it.

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say this experience has been life-changing. The people and the compassion they all show in confronting really distressing situations has been incredible to see. Though there is so much abuse going on and constant cases, I have felt inspired seeing how the organisation tackles them, rather than being overwhelmed or depressed by it all. I would really like to come back again as I think it is making an extraordinary difference.”

“I was so happy to be a part of the amazing work happening in South Africa. It’s a shame that there aren’t more organisations like this in South Africa! Everybody I met had a huge heart. It’s nice that volunteers are welcome and allowed to help. I also really enjoyed working with the police a lot, as they were great to talk to about issues in South Africa.

During my time I tutored a boy at a police station, sat in on counselling, looked around a police station (and the cells), spoke to people who run classes at a youth centre, spoke to the teacher in a special school, cared for the children in the house who all have their own challenges, and did lots of school talks (we researched a topic and wrote our own speeches). We were also involved in programmes organised by the police at different schools, and were responsible for being a judge for a junior station commander.”

“The work we did in South Africa was amazing. The foundation I volunteered with supports and gives voice to the children and people of the local communities who are often extremely vulnerable and disadvantaged. The staff are passionate and selfless, going above and beyond expectations of their work roles.

Upon arriving in South Africa, I remember thinking that the country was not what I was expecting. It was much nicer than I had anticipated and I felt relatively safe. The staff were lovely, and passionate and made me feel welcome and included. I really felt like I was a part of what was going on and enjoyed the experience.”