New Freinds! 

As I booked the Kenyan trip, I was excited to cross “go on safari and see the Big Five” off my bucket list, but I could never anticipate that the incredible safari would be the least memorable part of the trip. Kenya is so much more than its wildlife, and BBT truly opened up my eyes to the incredible culture and spirit of the Kenyan people. This wasn’t a “tourist trip”; it was true cultural immersion from start to finish. From learning about the Maasai tribe’s traditional ways to staying in a hotel that Queen Elizabeth resided in right before she was crowned monarch, Kenya’s rich history and vibrant culture was everywhere we looked. Moreover, I was fortunate enough to experience this trip with other teachers that I bonded with so quickly and who I came to call some of my greatest friends by the end of the trip. 

Beyond the benefits of friendship, laughter, and cultural immersion, the Kenya trip inspired me as a teacher to bring a more global perspective into my classroom. I teach in a predominantly white and wealthy suburban district, and I’m now fortunate enough to be connected to brilliant Kenyan teachers who are willing to partner with me during the school year to collaborate between our classrooms. It’s so important to have our students realize there is a larger world beyond their school walls, and partnering with SHOFCO will provide my students with an invaluable experience that they otherwise would never have had. 

Additionally, my trip allowed me to walk away with several lessons under my belt. In speaking with our guide, Maurice, as well as various Kenyan locals, I was able to develop several videos that I intend to use in the classroom to inform my instruction. As a humanities teacher, I’m excited to have students engage in activities that highlight the similarities and celebrate the differences between the lives of American students and the lives of Kenyan students. For example, since I teach American Literature, I was able to get Maurice’s perspective on what the American Dream means to a Kenyan, and whether they have a similar concept that unites their country. This will undoubtedly open up a rich, authentic conversation about our cultural values that could really only occur because I went on this trip. 

I loved every second of my time in Kenya. There were several moments when the other teachers in my group and I looked at each other and said, “I can’t believe each day has been better than the last.” But it was true; every single moment in Kenya inspired me as an educator and helped me grow as a person. I’m excited to share this unique opportunity to connect with Kenyan students with my school and am forever grateful to BBT for the experience they provided.