26 October 2026
Hey,
I’m Lena and volunteered at iKhaya for 11 months, from August 2025 until July 2026.
I decided I wanted to do something else after school rather than start my studies directly. And I ended up at iKhaya. It turns out it was the perfect place to be for me.
These 11 months have been a really special time in my life. Over that time, I had the joy and honour of being included in the iKhaya family, getting to know a different culture and some really nice people, and falling in love with the country of South Africa and, most importantly, with the kids.
That time was a huge enrichment for me. It was not always easy. It had its ups and downs, but it was definitely worth it, and I would do it again anytime. Spending my time and energy at iKhaya was a huge blessing for me. It was a special joy to look into the radiant eyes of these kids and to watch them develop.
During my time in South Africa, I witnessed the warm and open-hearted South Africa culture, which really inspired me. Furthermore, I made some good friends with people from church, the staff, and the kids, and I am very grateful for that.
iKhaya will definitely always have a special place in my heart!