What words would you use to describe your experience in Sri Lanka?

Incredible.

How do you think you benefitted from the experience?

It was really good having people that I could communicate with. I think I gained a lot of confidence in my signing ability, and I’m not afraid to ask for interpreters now.

What did you learn?

I learned a lot about how deafness is viewed in a different culture, and what services etc are available to D/deaf children (such as hearing aids vs cochlear implants).

What did you like about the VoluntEars trip?

I loved the balance of work and activities, and I think we saw a lot of ‘real’ Sri Lanka that many tourists wouldn’t see.

What did VoluntEars do well?

The trip was really well organised. The pre-trip zoom call and the WhatsApp group were really helpful for asking questions and getting to know more about the trip and each other.

What countries would you like to visit in the future?

All of them! I’m particularly interested in the Ghana and Nepal trips.

What was your funniest or most memorable experience?

When we were watching the elephants come up from the river, and a baby elephant reached out towards my wheelchair. It got really close! 

Also, when we were waiting for the tuk-tuks and it started raining and we all stayed outside and got completely drenched – I think the Sri Lankans thought we were crazy!