Metro Manila, Philippines

December 2011

Another life-changing experience, which came in the form of 5 weeks, spread over 3 trips, spent in a Gawad Kalinga (GK) village in Metro Manila. I am still in touch with my homestay family till this day.

Leading an overseas expedition team meant undertaking the huge responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of 20 other peers (some older than I), and while unnerving at times, it helped me to learn the importance of adaptability and steadiness.

During my trip in 2012, I had also visited the GK Enchanted Farm and experienced the vibrant social enterprises there, which further affirmed my vocational aspirations.

Left: The team I was part of in 2011, with the children and youth from the village. Right: The team my 2 co-leaders and I led for the 2012 expedition.
The computer section of the village library that we helped to set up, paint/decorate, and equip in 2011 and 2012.
My roommate and I with our homestay family's tita (left), who took great care of us during our volunteer trip and shared with us so much insight about her life and its transformation through GK!

OTHER highlights