Making a Difference – A Life-Changing Journey to Tanzania by Jessica Paudler, Health and Social Care Student, Coleg Cambria.
Arusha, Tanzania
At the end of April this year, I had the opportunity of a lifetime. Along with seven fellow Health and Social Care students and two tutors from Coleg Cambria, I travelled to Arusha, Tanzania, with the FutureSense Foundation. This incredible charity works with communities in developing countries to create sustainable change, and we were honoured to be part of their mission.
Our trip focused on supporting local education in Arusha. Each weekday, we worked in primary schools, teaching children the basics of the English language. It was so gratifying to help these young students develop their confidence and communication skills. Their eagerness to learn and their gratitude for even the smallest lesson were humbling and inspiring.
Education in Tanzania differs significantly from what we’re accustomed to in the UK. Many schools have limited resources – sometimes just one chalkboard and very few books. Yet the children come to school with bright smiles and a passion to learn. It reminded all of us how easy it is to take our own education system for granted.
Local Culture
Beyond the classroom, we immersed ourselves in local culture. We visited art galleries and cultural museums and even participated in community-led projects, such as tree planting. These experiences gave us a deeper understanding of Tanzanian life and the strength of its people. Despite facing challenges we can hardly imagine, the people we met were some of the happiest, most welcoming individuals I’ve ever come across.
What struck me most was how content and resilient everyone was, even with so little. Their joy came from community, connection, and gratitude—values we often overlook in our fast-paced lives. I went to Tanzania hoping to make a difference, but in truth, the people there changed me more than I could ever have imagined.
This trip has sparked a passion in me for volunteering and global outreach. I would gladly dedicate my life to helping communities like Arusha, where people may have less but deserve so much more. Seeing firsthand the positive impact we could make—even in just a few short weeks—was incredibly powerful and full of hope.
I’m thankful to Coleg Cambria and the FutureSense Foundation for making this experience possible. It has truly changed my life, and I encourage anyone who gets the chance to take it without hesitation. Not only did I learn new skills and gain a broader perspective, but I also made lifelong memories and connections that I’ll cherish forever.
Since returning home, I think about my time in Tanzania every day. I share my story as often as I can because I believe the more people know, the more we can do. I will continue to support the FutureSense Foundation and raise awareness for their work for as long as I can. Because change is possible—and sometimes, it starts with just one step outside your comfort zone.
We hope you enjoyed reading “My Life-Changing Journey to Tanzania”. Click here for more of our stories about the local community.
Feature image: Jessica and friend!
