Impressions from Shanti Bhavan

Nanja, 19 years old, has always been fascinated by India, its culture and its people. Since she wanted to be socially committed after high school, she was thrilled when she heard about Primavera and especially about Shanti Bhavan.

From 29 September to 19 December 2011, Nanja belonged to the group of volunteers at Shanti Bhavan. She reports:

"I lived in Baliganapalli and, except for the weekends when I traveled through the country, I worked every day at school. Besides dancing, I also taught social studies, history, English, German and flute-playing and supervised homework or sports activities.

Working with the children in class or at the gym was more challenging and exhausting than I had imagined. Also, it was not easy, after a short training period only, to step up in front of a class with almost twenty pupils, to teach them.

The children benefit greatly from working with so many foreign aid workers. You learn a lot about other cultures and are therefore open to the world and sometimes even valuable friendships for life are made. The children grow up in Shanti Bhavan, knowing that their residence offers a unique chance to lift themselves and their families out of poverty.

Particularly impressive to me was the story of Praveen, a student with a very difficult and sad past. He is now an excellent student and a good example of what a real home, education and the promotion of hidden talents can do for a child.

My internship at Shanti Bhavan was not always easy, but I've learned a lot and have had wonderful experiences. While I was involved as a volunteer, I knew I fulfilled important tasks and I was needed. That was the best reward for me and I am very grateful that I was allowed for some time to be part of this special community.

Finally, my thanks go to Primavera, who gave me great support while being able to make my plans become reality."

Primavera also would like to thank Nanja for her great commitment!