PMGY Sri Lanka 2015

What an experience! Volunteering in Sri Lanka was by far the best thing I have done. To be immersed into a culture so different from your own is incredible. When I first landed at Colombo I was so excited to just sink my teeth in and get started and you pretty much get a glimpse on the drive to Ambalangoda. Arriving at Ashikas and meeting Thamari and Ranji was amazing, the welcome was so open and warm. They are amazing people, so generous and polite to let complete strangers into there house but once you get to know them it is just like your family. I had always done different things with an idea of what to expect but going into Sri Lanka I had an open mind and let things happen which I would encourage everyone to do. The projects themselves were incredible. Walking into tsunami school and being confronted by children who are so friendly and grateful for your presence is heart warming. They seem to appreciate the little things rather than being jealous or upset for what they don't have. They all love a game of cricket or 'running games' but most of all they love to develop there English and be the best they can. At the temple the monks are so polite and generous. We got fed the best morning tea everyday and got to see the biggest smiles you will ever come across. The teaching was made easy because of the attitude of the children even though you do have to adjust and think on your feet most the time!

This was the best experience I could have possibly asked for and would go back tomorrow if I could. Coming home was a pain but I guess that makes the experience even more special! Ashika and family do an amazing job for PMGY Sri Lanka and Kasun is a legend, they are all willing to help you out in any way possible. Thankyou to everyone involved it is an experience I will never forget, everyone should just give it a shot!