India Volunteer Story: Carla

I had always dreamt of going to India. My mother said that I was still too young, however this year I suggested it and her answer was that I could go. My dream had come true.

We left on 22nd of August from Barcelona for India, stopping briefly in London. When we arrived in Delhi, we took our bags and found the person who was waiting for us. His name is Sanjeev. He went with us to the hotel where we slept the first night. In the morning we had breakfast and we took the same car to go to Sikar, it took six hours to do 300 kilometers, but the experience was so good, the landscape was just beautiful...

When we arrived in Sikar, Madan’s family was awaiting us with open arms. They said welcome, and asked us if we would like a cup of tea.

During the fortnight, the whole family was very kind and looked after us. Every day we went to Banjara Basti and taught a lot of children from 6 to 12 years old, who were always incredibly happy. Their smiles never left their faces...

We taught them Mathematics and English. We also taught them basic hygiene skills such as showing them to how to clean their teeth properly and to always wash their hands and faces. The days we didn't do that, we went to primary school, other days we went to the hospital.

Thanks to my parents and my family, I could realize my dream. It had been a good experience for me, because I felt useful to help people that needed it.

I was very comfortable with Madan' family, and I will always remember Niraj's meals, henna classes and so on. I have made a lot of friends and I hope that I will return to India next year.

Thanks a lot for everything.