Sophie is a CODA and joined our Sri Lanka trip as a customer in July 2023. We asked her to help as our Communicator on the Nepal trip in August 2024. Below is her feedback about the Nepal trip. 

Why did you join VoluntEars?

I love working with deaf people and love travelling. 

Why did you choose the Nepal trip?

Because Richard [VoluntEars director] called me!

What were you looking forward to?

Taking on the challenge of being the Communicator for this trip and the trek. 

Were you worried about anything before the trip? If so, what?

It wasn’t a country I knew much about, so I was worried about what the people and culture would be like. Turns out I had nothing at all to worry about!

What words would you use to describe your experience in Nepal?

Beautiful, rewarding, challenging.

What was your funniest or most memorable experience?

Funniest: walking back to the hotel in Pokhara in the rain and thunder and lightning… 🤣

Memorable: watching the clouds come up the valley in the second tea house and getting glimpses of the mountains through the clouds. 

What did you enjoy the most on the trip?

The trek and the activities with the children, particularly teaching my BSL class!

How do you think you benefitted from the experience?

I have a wider and deeper understanding of sign languages from around the world, especially some ASL which be useful in other settings. I’ve also learnt lots about a different culture and way of life. 

What did you like about the VoluntEars trip?

The variety of different places visited, such as Kathmandu, Pokhara and different places along the trek. 

How could we make the trip better in the future?

Move the clouds out the way for better views on Poon Hill!