09 Sep Nicaragua 2016
46 students from the Jo Richardson Community School aged 14 – 18 spent the last 18 months fundraising and preparing their fitness for an exciting True Adventure expedition to Nicaragua in on the 8th July 2016.
The students faced many challenges on the 16-night expedition. On arriving in Managua the young people had to source and book their own accommodation, food and transport for their 16 day gruelling expedition. The students spent their first nights after landing travelling to Leon and Granada embracing the culture and atmosphere of a vibrant cities. The group then split into 3 teams for their community project and arduous trekking of 4 active volcanos : The teams embarked on challenging project work for the charity La Esperanza on Omtepe Island and in Granada, working with children in local schools, teaching, building and painting and building paths and drainage ditches. This work was back breaking in 38-degree heat and 85% humidity. Britney Lea Ogbebor 16 said ‘ The conditions are hard but I feel amazing making a difference in this school, making it a better and safer place for the local children’.
The teams were challenged emotionally, mentally and physically, working with children in some of the poorest areas of the country. This was be followed with several days of trekking to 4 of the countries many active volcanos. ’We saw some incredible sunsets and sunrises with the most amazing views. I have learnt to push myself beyond my physical limits on this expedition and I am really proud of what I’ve done’ Bobby Edmede 14.
The students were encouraged to fully immerse themselves in local life, at times living within the immediate community which challenged their ability to communicate in this predominantly Spanish speaking country.
The final 2 days were spent relaxing on the coast in San Juan Del Sur where there was much reflection about the trip and what the young people had achieved in their time in Nicaragua. ‘Emily Vincent 17 – ‘This has given me a desire to travel more and although it has been physically tough I have loved every minute. Making new friends which will last a life time’.
Teacher and leader of this expedition Kala Boller said ‘We have been running world expeditions at JRCS for 10 years now and we have taken over 150 students to places such as Kenya, Malaysia and Nicaragua. We find that often passions are kindled and life missions unearthed through taking young people out of their comfort zone. I am so proud of the staff, who give up their time and the students who will remember the sights, sounds and faces for many years to come
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