Morafe 2023 Trip Reflections: Meet IAWA Ambassador Elaina

We recently had our US Morafe cohort travel down to South Africa for the culmination of their fundraising efforts. All our ambassadors will get the opportunity to be heard here on our blog on the effect of IAWA and the impact that this trip had on them. The following lovely sections were written by IAWA Ambassador, Elaina. We do hope you enjoy and get a taste of what the hard work of our community and the support of our community members can create.

During the summer of 2023, I was given the amazing opportunity to travel abroad to South Africa.  I had been part of the IAWA organization for two years prior to the trip.  Youth from South Africa and the U.S. would participate in activities over Zoom calls where we got to know more about our cultural differences and similarities.  However, the trip was the best part of the program experience and was exactly what I needed before my transition from high school to college.

When we first met, there was an air of nervous anticipation. We were a group of strangers in a foreign land, far from the comforts of home. But as time unfolded, those initial jitters melted away, replaced by genuine connections and friendships that deepened with each passing day. When the time came to say goodbye, we found ourselves reluctant to part ways, our bonds stronger than ever.

 During the two weeks that we were in South Africa, we spent time with the other youth ambassadors playing games, visiting and touring sites, and career conferences, and overall getting to know each other. I met so many amazing people and built great bonds with them.  One of the biggest takeaways that I took from the trip is that although our cultures may be different, we are all very similar.

Elaina testing out the water hose on a tour of the Rustenburg fire station.

Another takeaway from the trip was the career conference.  People from all sorts of backgrounds and careers came to present to us.  During this time in our lives, we can often feel unsure about what life will look like after graduating high school or college.  I was inspired by those who came to speak to us because we were reminded that if we follow our dreams and goals for ourselves then we will succeed.  We are young, therefore we are all the next generation who will lead the future.  Being able to meet such wonderful young adults from across the world gave me hope for our future success and prosperity.

——US Ambassador Elaina, Morafe Cohort

For more trip reflections keep with our blog and social media pages. We continue to strive to bring you these and more community stories. Like what you read? Leave a comment below!