Our team member Vanessa talks about her work

Behind every organization are people who shape it with their ideas, their time, and their hearts. People who consciously choose to be part of a shared mission. But why our organization in particular? What makes their involvement so special, and what gives them the feeling that they are in the right place? In this article, our team member Vanessa shares what connects her to our organization, what her work means to her, and why she is so committed to Direct Help 4 Tanzania:

«"I first learned about Direct Help 4 Tanzania a few years ago through its founder, Diana, with whom I've been close friends since university. After graduating with my bachelor's degree, we were able to accompany her on a visit: Together with a whole group of friends, we packed our bags and flew to Tanzania. There, we were able to support the project and help simplify and structure the processes for international volunteers.".

The host family and the local team welcomed us with such warmth that I immediately felt very comfortable. Looking back on that time, so many moments have stayed with me: the morning walks through the village, the fantastic food (just thinking about the warm chai and the delicious chapatis makes my mouth water again), the heartfelt conversations with our team, and the many valuable interactions with the young women in training.
A major highlight of our time together was the graduation day for the current training cycle. We all danced, laughed, and celebrated together. In that moment, I experienced firsthand the tangible impact this project has and how much opportunity it creates.

Back home, Areta and I knew one thing for sure: we wanted to continue our involvement with Direct Help 4 Tanzania. Today, together with the team in Tanzania, we're responsible for supporting the new volunteers. It gives me immense joy to enable others to have this formative experience. Seeing the graduates in Arusha earn their own money after their training and build their lives independently is the best proof of how much our work as an organization achieves.

We are now nine dedicated women in the Swiss team, all with completely different backgrounds. We learn a tremendous amount from each other and also have a really great time together outside of our club work.
Personally, I've already gained a lot from this experience. Intercultural collaboration on equal footing requires openness, empathy, and understanding. The optimism and the calm, benevolent nature of our team in Tanzania never cease to amaze me. I try to emulate that in my everyday life as well.

My wish for our organization is to support many more young women in Tanzania on their path to an independent life and to give dedicated people the opportunity to make a meaningful difference through their commitment. Finally, I want to say one thing above all: Asante sana! A huge thank you to our amazing team in Switzerland, to the team on the ground, and to all the volunteers and donors who make this project close to our hearts and the self-determined future of these motivated women possible.»