Megan Baker – 2 Week Special Human Rights in South Africa
Megan Baker joined one of Projects Abroad’s 2 Week Special projects in summer 2013, when she was 18 years old. Megan is now studying Law at university. The 2 Week Specials are a great way to get a taste of a career or subject you may be going on to study like medicine, dentistry or law. Joining one of the Care & Community options are also a great way to experience working in a developing country and doing something worthwhile with other young people from around the world. The 2 Week Special projects run on set dates in the summer holidays.
Megan says:
“I chose South Africa as a destination as I wanted to go somewhere that I had never been before and somewhere I didn’t actually know much about. I decided to go after leaving school as I believed the experience would help my confidence and independence for going to university.
“I was part of the 2 Week Special project, which I really enjoyed even though it went too quickly! My host family were some of the nicest people I have ever met. They made me feel so welcomed and comfortable. The first week I was there we discovered Cape Town and its human rights history including visits to places such as Robben Island and the District Six museum.
“We also visited several townships and helped out at a soup kitchen. We also met some of the local children who showed us so much love and energy.
“The second week was when we focussed on some of the human rights issues that South Africa is facing. I met people who are currently tackling these issues, such as those involved in the African Scholars Fund.
“It was difficult to leave South Africa in the end. Even having been there for a short time, I had made friends who I know will be lifelong friends and I had totally immersed myself in the new, exciting culture of Cape Town.
“I am already planning my next trip to South Africa with Projects Abroad. My advice to those thinking of volunteering is to just go for it, you won’t regret it.”
Read more about Projects Abroad 2 Week Special programmes