In May, I had the privilege of joining Afrikawear for a month. Justin, Mama, and the team welcomed me into their hostel and workshop, teaching me how to weave, batik print, dye, and bead.

Justin became our personal tour guide and took us on a safari, Irangi rock paintings, coffee tours, waterfall hikes, and introduced us to three tribes – Masai, Detoga, and Hudzabe. I even picked up some Swahili along the way. The food, language, and art (Tinga tinga) were all incredibly fascinating. My desire to experience Tanzanian culture, handcrafted textiles, and Arusha’s lush nature was more than satisfied.

I was left with amazing memories and lasting friendships. I highly recommend this experience to anyone seeking a truly unforgettable adventure.

Hi, my name is Bente, and in March 2021, I traveled to Tanzania, Arusha to volunteer at Afrikan Wear Design. Run by Head Mama (Marylin) and Manager Justin Hokororo. I was warmly welcomed and immediately felt like part of the family.

As a Graphic Designer by profession, so I put my talents to work at Afrikan Wear Design. Such as managing social media, creating brochures and catalogues, handling photography, and assisting with customer acquisition. I truly felt that my hard work was appreciated, and they treated me like a family member. I got to enjoy a homemade meal at the project every day. Mama would show me the products (art) they made. She was really talented at making jewelry pieces, some of which I still wear frequently to this day.

Justin would taxi me around, even if I told him it wasn’t necessary. He showed me the town and hotspots nearby. He really was my guide and brother in the end. It was effortless to work and communicate with Justin.

During my stay, I also contributed to the development of the Woven House, a hostel designed to provide guests and volunteers with a genuine Afrikan Wear experience. I played a role in conceptualising the project, designing the logo, cleaning and making the furniture. There, I truly got to experience the culture up close. I learned to cook Tanzanian meals and even picked up some Swahili. I felt truly included in the community.

For anyone considering volunteering, I hope my story convinces you to go. I find myself wishing I were in your shoes to experience it all over again.

During my enriching volunteer stint in Tanzania with Woven Connect, I played a pivotal role in shaping the association’s strategic vision. Collaborating closely with the dedicated team, I meticulously crafted compelling content for their upcoming website, ensuring a coherent and impactful online presence.

However, my involvement extended far beyond the digital realm. I actively facilitated and led workshops, providing valuable insights and guidance to the team and management on effective task prioritization, skillful delegation, and overall organizational efficiency. Witnessing the positive impact of these sessions on the team dynamics and operational effectiveness was incredibly rewarding.

At the heart of this transformative experience was Justin, the coordinator, whose friendly demeanour, attentive nature, and flexibility fostered an environment of collaboration and innovation. His exceptional culinary skills added a delightful touch to our daily lives, and the thoughtfully organised excursions during our free time allowed us to immerse ourselves in the local culture.

The Woven House, my home during this adventure, offered a secure and comfortable haven. Complete with essential facilities such as hot showers and reliable WiFi, it served as a conducive space for both relaxation and productivity.

In essence, my time with Woven Connect in Tanzania was not just about contributing to their strategic development; it was a hands-on experience where I actively animated workshops, aiding in the enhancement of organizational skills and leaving an indelible mark on the association’s growth.

Last year, I sought an opportunity to volunteer outside of my country and chose Arusha as my destination. After researching several NGOs, I opted for AfricanWear, and it turned out to be the perfect choice. Upon my arrival, Justin picked me up at the airport and escorted me to the WovenHouse, where I spent three weeks. From the moment I arrived, everyone embraced me warmly, making me feel like a member of their family in less than 24 hours.
During my stay, I dedicated my mornings to assisting in their atelier, immersing myself in their culture, and seamlessly becoming a part of their team. In my free time, Justin and Martin ensured that I had an unforgettable experience by guiding me to explore numerous incredible locations in Arusha and its surroundings. They even arranged visits to the Masai tribe, providing insightful explanations about the diverse cultures within Tanzania.

What I miss the most, however, is our dinner time, where we all gathered around the table to enjoy traditional Tanzanian food. These moments were filled with laughter, as they patiently tried to teach me Swahili and shared anecdotes from their lives. The warmth that everyone gives me it’s what I take with me. I’m looking forward to coming back again.