A blog by Carly Leggit, one of our overseas volunteers.

Arriving in Cape Town with little over three hours of sleep in two days, I somehow knew I wouldn't be feeling tired today. I was back, in this beautiful city with the sun shining brightly, regardless of the oncoming winter. I was pretty sure it was going to be a great day, a great three months even. I was eager to begin my internship with the Shine Centre, and excited because from the time I had known it, two years ago, they had grown and developed their program even further, affecting and engaging so many more young lives. I met up with the shine team, friendly as ever, I was able to learn, train and become directly involved with one on one work with the bright and adorable children at the Shine Centre. The literacy program they have developed is effective, inclusive and works off of the interests of the children. I could really appreciate this aspect, as I have spent the last two years studying Early Childhood Development in Toronto and working alongside children ever since I was one. The Shine Centres have now spread across Cape Town , reaching more children who are struggling to cope in an English school environment. However, I think another reason I can appreciate Shine is that we not only help to develop literacy, but the enjoyment of it in particular. This is something that I have had the pleasure of experiencing, that is watching a child build their confidence, then witnessing their excitement and the joy they take in reading me a story.
By this time, I was well into the swing of things when the school holidays came and it was time for me to see the behind the scenes work of running a non-profit organization. I'm involved in fund raising efforts, meaning contacting a lot of people, which fortunately, in turn could not only potentially provide us with some sort of funding or shared resources, but also gives us a chance to spread awareness and network. Overall, I'm finding it to be a very positive experience. That being said, I can't help but be excited to return to the schools and see the smiling faces of our young learning partners again!
It seems that I've fallen in love with South Africa too many times now to not continue returning. What I mean to say is that as a foreigner, Canadian, visitor or anything else, I can always guarantee that I will feel at home here. Whether that's due to the beauty of the oceans, the people, the work of the Shine team or the super-convenience of the mini-bus taxi, I can be sure that my stays here will inevitably become much more permanent.