Going to Sinfra was more of an insider experience. I noticed the kids’ curiosity about the world beyond their village. After teaching them small bits of English and talking about life outside of Africa, their eyes began to open to the outside world. What really struck me was that the kids and I were both learning a lot. I was teaching them some things, but they were also teaching me about their community, the importance of understanding other perspectives, and how to find joy in the little things. It showed me how special it is to have relationships with people and experience the culture of a different part of the world.

The thoughts that I had about Sinfra also made me think about my future as well. A business career is what I am thinking of, but I am still unsure whether I want to concentrate on management or administration. What I got from Sinfra was that a leader is not just a person who gives orders. Leaders who care observe other people, develop empathy, and collaborate with them. This experience will be my guide not only through my studies but also in my professional life.

One of the things that stood out to me about Sinfra was the manner in which community members supported each other without urging each other to do so. I, for one, was always seeing neighbors helping each other with housework, exchanging food, or taking care of younger children without anyone having to prompt them. It opened my eyes to the idea of communal care and how powerful it is when people decide to look after one another. This feeling of being together led me to the realization that success is not something that you can personally achieve. It encouraged me to plan on how I would be a source of positivity to my family and the people around me whether I stay at home or become part of a new community anywhere.

My time in Sinfra made me also think about the kind of leader that I would be. I observed that the way people communicated with each other was full of respect, and that they cooperated. This made me understand that good leadership is based on empathy, patience, and being willing to listen. It made me realize that the most power a leader has is due to the trust gained and relationships formed, not because of control over situations. This revelation will be like a guide for me in future opportunities, reminding me that I need to be humble and willing to learn when I encounter new experiences. ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌