Captured moments

The past 10 weeks seem to have flown by in a matter of seconds, but that always seems to be the way when your having a great time.
Now it's back to normal. Time to get into some sort of routine and decide what to do with the rest of my life.....
No Biggie! hehe

Nearly 2 weeks since arriving back home I have finally sorted through well over 2000 photos and I am ready to share. Theses are a small selection from week 1 - 4.
After being thrown straight into orientation, we made the surprisingly seamless transition into Sangilo. Despite the lifestyle being very different in contrast to what we are used to, everyone's friendly and welcoming attitude made it that bit easier to settle in and adapt.
Sangilo, being a pretty small place, didn't take long to get to know. Admittedly I spent the first week getting lost in cassava fields and random bushes, but I can now happily say I have learnt every route and short cut there is to know (thanks to Isaac).
Week 1 to 4, was focused on introductions and meeting different people, organisations and committee's we would be working closely with. As an education centred project, the majority of our time was dedicated to observing and assessing the nurseries, in addition to developing new resources and materials for those currently functioning with nothing but a blackboard. Through doing this, we were able to introduce a wide range of teaching/learning resources, as well as sustainable new practises and improvements. In Malawi things run rather slowly, and that's putting it nicely. It's no surprise, with a beautiful, relaxed way of life you wouldn't expact any different, but I was always concerned we wouldn't get anything done. Luckily this wasn't the case....

UK Volunteers (UKV's) excited and ready to check in at Heathrow Airport

  

One of many beautiful Malawian Sunsets

Orientation in Mzuzu

A Sangilo Welcome

Meet the Sangilo Family! x

My amazing host family

Phulano Nursery Committee & Care Givers

Jennet & Charity, two of my 4 host sisters.

Phulano Nursery in Action.

Porridge Time

Fun at the host home

Lake Malawi

First of many beach fires

Office Antics

Karonga Visit

Don't worry, there's more to come but enjoy for now, 

Tan xx

Touch Down in London Town!

Pre-Departure at Heathrow Airport

Home Sweet Home - Touch Down in London Town!

For those of you who don't already know....

I'M BACK!!!

I arrived on Friday and now all rested up, I couldn't resist the opportunity to update you guys! It's taken a while to adapt back to living in the UK and although I'm still not quite there yet, I'm happy to be home.

The past 3 months have been quite eventful to say the least, but arguably the best few months of my life. Malawi is a beautiful place, full of wonderful people and the only thing currently occupying my mind at the moment is....When am I going back?!

Being back is a very odd feeling. It's almost as though I am returning to a home away from home, only this feels like a 5* palace in compaison. Wh needs it eh?!
Arriving in Malawi, I was mentally prepared for the conditions I would be living in and almost knew what to expect. Returning is a whole other story! 
Going from nearly nothing, to almost everything is pretty overwhelming. As expected it will certainly take some getting used to but I can now say I see everything around me with a whole new level of appreciation.

Busy old London hasn't changed one bit since leaving, however things are a lot different when coming from slow moving, easy-going Sangilo. Everything here is soo new...and big...and...different!
Was I really as grumpy as everyone else before leaving??....and how the Hell did I move around this fast? Why is everyone is a rush???

Enough of my waffelling for now...it's great to be back and have an update and photo's for you very soon....

Home Sweet Home

Tan xx

Message from Malawi

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Hello all! 

Yes it has been a while.

Although we were told there is no internet out here in the middle of no where....there is! Don't get too excited, connection is practically non-existent and it takes weeks to upload anything.

Last weekend we reached two milestones. First being I turned 21 (YAY!) and we officially past our halfway point!

Mid placement review, although held a week early to avoid election uproar, we were glad for the break and the opportunity to welcome our sub-team based in Mzuzu, to our home here in Sangilo.

My host home and new family have been absolutely lovely. I have inherited the world's most over-protective father and hard working mother ever, as well as a bunch of awesome kids. 

I am surprised by just how enjoyable going back to basics has been. I have come this far without missing running taps, showers, toilets, electricity, the internet and more...far from what I had originally expected before leaving the UK. 

Sangilo being unimaginably picture perfect has probably had a little to do with that! I couldn't wish to be anywhere else in the world. 

Progress on both nurseries and secondary projects have come on leaps and bounds in the last week. We have introduced new teaching and learning resources into nurseries that previously functioned with barely a blackboard and chalk, and continuing with adult literacy has been lots of fun...village elders make great students.

Teachers, Chiefs and nursery committees, charged with the same enthusiasm and energy as us volunteers, have injected immense efforts into the improvement of both nurseries to show a vast difference in comparison to where they started 5wks ago. We still have some way to go but I have no doubt in the team and communities dedication. 

The team here in Sangilo has become somewhat of a second family. Having built great friendships between both UK and Malawian volunteers, I look forward to keeping in touch in the future.

I must also say a Huge thanks to the team for throwing the best ever 21st birthday-nursery sleepover Sangilo has ever seen! They even made me actual cake, which out here is heaven on a plate considering how hard junk food is to come by. Food is  probably the thing I have missed most and definitely something I am going to enjoying on my return.

Sangilo has since become a home away from home, and although I look forward to returning to my UK home, a small piece of me will for sure remain here.  

There will definitely be a few tears when the time comes to leave for good, but till then I am here to enjoy this beautiful place and all of the wonderful people I meet along the way! 

Hugs and kisses all the way from Sangilo, Malawi

Tan xxx

Over & Out

Two things to celebrate today....

Firstly it's Departure day!!
Secondly, my blog has reached 1000 hits!!!

Thank-you to everyone for your tremendous support. It has been absolutely invaluable and I may well have gone slightly crazy without everyones encouraging words of wisdom and all the belly laughs along the way.
This is the exciting bit, so I hope you continue to follow my story whilst I'm away (or when I'm back depending on when I can get you an update).

I cannot begin to describe how I am feeling!

My bag has been packed and re-packed a million times over, my passport and travel documents are waiting for me by the door and a box of tissues sit off to the side as I say my final goodbyes.

Needless to say I am now far beyond the point of excitement, and inevitably a little sad, nervous and scared.
In just 2 hours I will be airport bound to meet my fellow volunteers, where we will receive our farewell packs and later board a plane to Lilongwe, Malawi. 

This is the adventure of a lifetime and I have 3 months to make it count....

the real journey starts here and now!

xx

P.S I don't know when I will next have access to the internet it is goodbye for now, but look out for updates on here, FB, twitter 'tanushri_d & instagram @tanushrid x

Leap of Faith

My very LAST day in London!!!

One question I have continually asked myself is, are you ready for this? Can I really prepare for such a drastic lifestyle change (and I don't mean packing wise)? Can I cope knowing there is only so much I can do? Do I really know what I've gotten myself into???

Honestly, I still cannot answer these....but I am definitely ready! The decision did not need a second thought, but all the same, was not made lightly. 

Is anyone ever ready for such a change?

I am most looking forward to my new family. Integrating myself into an entirely new community nearly half way across the world. A community that is decades behind my own in means of development and technology (probably a whole lot richer in other means, I'll come back and let you know!).  

I wish to find a piece of home in Sangilo,Malawi.....but hope it won't be too heart breaking to leave because I've heard otherwise! However small, I leave knowing I will return a changed person, having learnt more about, both myself and a whole new culture. 

It's important to step out of your comfort zone now and again. This is my biggest adventure in life so far....so here goes

My leap of faith!

xx

Smashed it!

6 days and counting . . . 

So pleased to finally be able to say I have hit my £800 target this morning!

A huge thanks to all of the amazing people who have helped me along the way, both with donations and your wonderful words of encouragement and support. 

It really does mean a huge amount.

A special thanks to my wonderful neighbours who recenlty donated and are the reason I can share this great news with you today. Much Appreciated!

It is hard to believe that in just under a week I will be boarding a plane bound for Malawi.

My bags are packed and ready, my phone has just been switched to pay as you go for the first time in 10 years and I'm starting to say my goodbyes starting with big BBQ this saturday. 

Fingers Crossed for good weather . . . 

xx

Flight Spa

Exactly 1 Week to go till I will be on my way to Malawi with the rest of the group!!!
We will be travelling for more than 14 hours, 12 of which I will be spent up in the air.

There are very few conditions that actually compromise your skin....flying is definitely one of them and since there won't be much room for pampering while where away, I've packed a few essentials into my hand luggage to be able to turn a dehydrating flight into a well needed spa session.

These are products that I like to use so feel free to substitute according to personal preference :)

I've also made sure to decant the products into bottles less then 100ml to comply with airline security restrictions.

Find the full post on my fashion blog Street & Rail 

xx

Say What?!

Friday Fun-Day Face Painting 

I've been taking everyone by surprise....and no, it's not my oh-so-scary Tiger face!

Since leaving school, I’ve jumped between several things, whether it be working, studying or just taking a break, and I’ve never stopped asking “What am I doing with my life?!” 

A lot, if not most of the time, university has been tied into the question somewhere. First you must understand that I am that type of person that people expect to do something worthwhile, and I guess the general understanding of “worthwhile” is jumping head first into higher education and finding a career. Boy did I surprise them!

On getting accepted to ICS, one of the many things I have enjoyed most is telling everyone what I am doing. You never quite know what reaction you are going to get. Some ask a million questions (at a million miles an hour of course), some ‘oooo’ and ‘rrrrr’ in amazement, then my personal favourite, are those that simply stand and stare as though I’ve just turned into a three-headed, eight-eyed, fire-breathing alien, with wings. As you can imagine it’s very amusing! 

Once over the initial shock however, everyone is extremely enthusiastic and endlessly encouraging, which only fuels my drive.

I have been overwhelmed by the immense amount of support I have received, not only from friends and family, but also strangers. Everyone is so ready and willing to lend a helping hand in any way they can. It is great to know that everyone is as excited by what I’m doing as I am. I am happy that I am able to share such an extraordinary experience with so many people. I am sure I will be back before I know it with a million wonderful experiences and beautiful photos to share with you all.

Till  then....

xx

2 Weeks Notice

12 Day's to go ... 

Before I start, I have to let you all know that due to an unexpected allergy to Chilli, I am unable to complete the Chilli Challenge but instead I'm provide you with very un-flattering picture of my swollen face and lip, and failed attempt at eating chilli's. 
Lucky Escape if you ask me! :D

With just under 2 weeks to go it is time to get both physically and mentally prepared.

I'm in the progress of finalising formalities before I leave. Time to think about the boring details like finishing work, ending my phone contract, cancelling subscriptions, packing (for real) and most importantly getting medical clearance :/ !!!

I am currently in the process of packing up everything I own, as well as my backpack! My room is being painted while I am away, so its starting to feel a little like I am really packing up my entire life to moving away. A very odd feeling, but still pretty surreal that I will be living in Malawi for three months....I'm sure it will hit me soon enough.

I have heard all good things about Malawi from everyone including my doctor and travel nurse, to the odd stranger that has donated or attended one of my fundraising events. My excitement only mounts as I heard back from a returning volunteer and Sangilo Team Leader Becky, currently in Malawi (see you very soon!). 
Thank you for the advice, I have now added a library and stationary shop to the packing list *hehe*

We are edging closer and I only have £138 left to raise to reach my target so please help me out!

Text TANU55 £2/£5/£10 to 70070
or visit
My JustGiving Page 

xx

Check List.

So I'm a little packing crazy....

OK a little Crazy in general, but even more so when it comes to packing!!!!

I guess, like everyone else, I just get a little paranoid that I may leave something important behind. It's never happened but then I guess that's down to my endless and needless checking.

Being more or less packed since the engage training weekend, just over a month ago, hasn't seemed to stop me list-making, un-packing and re-checking, then packing all over again. I am currently at the un-packed/re-packing stage lol. You may call it OCD, but for me it's simply being organised....that and unlike most I LOVE PACKING!!! 

Not really a backpack kind of person (that and being so tiny), the suitcase/backpack debate going on in my head seemed to be never ending, until I came across my new Berghaus Torridon. Not only it a little more feminine that the usual black or blue manly bag, but it is also super comfortable! Yay, I can look forward to not having "suitcase-shoulder" this time round.
Over the weekend I decided to transfer everything from the suitcase currently sitting on my bedroom floor, to my beautiful new backpack.

What an utter Fail!!!

Who knew packing three months worth of life into a 60L backpack was so difficult. 
I'm not too worried at this point as I am definitely a light packer, and having been lucky enough to travel a bit so my crazy self has since mastered the art of packing everything into a tiny bag. I am only a little sad as I am no Wonder Woman and know I will inevitably have to leave things like books and toys behind.

This is the Essential's Check List....

xx

Sharp Scratch!

18 Day to go ...

This was pushed back as long possible, but about a month ago I dragged myself down to the travel clinic for my first set of vaccines. 

After the usual form filling and medical history, I was whisked away into a side room, where I was asked a few questions about my travel plans and destination. This was inevitably followed by the summary of dangers and health risks that accompany such an adventure. 
As you can imagine, it wasn't a short list! 
When making the decision to volunteer in Africa, the thought of vaccines, malaria and disease prevention didn't even cross my mind. Looking back, it's definitely something I should have thought about.

With the number of blood tests I've had over the years, I am no stranger when it comes to  needles.....it's only a good thing that I forgot how sore your arm gets afterwards. Ouch!

I can happily say that this week I had my very last two vaccines, but I'm not exactly what you would describe as "the picture of health", so it looks like I'll be taking another trip to the hospital, as I apprehensively await full medical clearance. 
I remain a little nervous but still hopefully that it will be good news. 
 Fingers crossed! 

xx

P.S Don't forget about today's Friday Fun-Day at 3pm in Harris + Hoole, Crounch End!!!

Oh so close . . .

I am so very close to my fundraising target with only £218 left to go.

Fundraising had to be put on the back burner over the last few days as I sort out getting my medical clearance, which is prooving to be a little trickier than I fisrt anticipated, so fingers crossed....but I'm back and have lots coming up!

Tomorrow I will be hosting Friday Fun-day at Harris + Hoole in Crouch End from 3pm so don't miss out!!

Not only will there be face painting, games, sweet treats and crafts, but there is also coffee, snacks and the well needed chance to relax for all you lovely parents ;)

.....and let's not forget my Chilli Challenge!! This is one that I am not looking forward to, but it's all for a good cause so there's no escape. 

Text TANU55 £2/£5/£10 to 70070

 

or visit

 

My JustGiving Page 

xx

Milestones

YAY I've passed the halfway mark!!!
I have so far raised £512, 64% of my total target!!

I would like to say a HUGE heart felt thank you to all my friends and family that have helped and/or donated so far. I am so very greatful!!!

One thing I have loved the fundraising process is getting the chance to meet some great people. Everyone is so willing to help, even people that don't even know me, whether it be by donating, sharing stories of their experiences, offering advice, volunteering their time to help....and much more. It is amazing to know people actually care.

In the chaos that is now my life, between work, fundraising and getting organised, I have since realised that I will soon be reaching a huge milestone of my own......

I'm turning 21!!! 
And that's not all. I'll be turning 21 in Malawi...where I will also be living for three months. If you asked me a month ago, I definitely wouldn't have said this, however I am extremely excited.
It's surely isn't going to be one I will be forgetting anytime soon!

It's obviously that you're all going to want to shower me with gifts for birthday, but seeing as I won't be here I just ask that you make a donation instead :)

Text TANU55 £2/£5/£10 to 70070 

or visit 

My JustGiving Page 

xx

APS Staff Cake Sale

A Super-Duper THANK YOU to the staff of Alexandra Park School for all of your support, but most of all your love! I hope you all enjoyed. :) 

I would also like a say a very special thanks to Mike Mckenzie for giving me the opportunity to hold, not 1 but 2 staff cake sales (much appreciated!). 

And let's not forget the wonderful Adali Cake Show for donating the delicious raspberry cream cake, everyone was very impressed.

I hope I have managed to sattisfy your cake cravings, because with your generous donations I have managed to raise a huge £90.

This officially brings me to a grand total of £452.

Now 56% of my target already achieved, I only have £348 to go!

Thank-you :)

xx

Kids Friday Fun-Day

My fundraising efforts are set to go off with a bang, I'm nearly half way and I'm set to host an action packed charity fundraiser in the form of 

Kids Friday Fun-day!

Harris + Hoole in Crouch End have kindly offered me a space at back of their store to be able to host Friday Fun-day and we will be lucky enough to be joined by local mum and face painter Kate from Doodle Cheeks.

With "guess how many sweets in the jar", drawing & colouring, face painting and some small craft activities, there's plenty to keep the children entertained while parents can sit back and relax with a coffee from Harris + Hoole.

Perfect start to the weekend if you aske me....and to top it off,

ALL Proceeds go to Charity!!!

It's an event you can't afford to miss!

Hope to see you all there.

xx

Manicure Me Fabulous

Steet & Rail Nails - Instagram @tanushrid

Lattitude Global Volunteering Nails

Lattitude Global Volunteering Nails

ICS nails

ICS nails

Inspired by the "Sunday Polish" feature on my "fashion & lifestyle" blog Street & Rail, and all of these "No-Makeup Selfies" I think its about time everyone shared my love of beautifully polished nails. 

Over the next three weeks, I will be lending my services to everyone and everyone looking to get a fabulous nail-makeover and all from only £5. 

I am happy to do absolutely anything you want on your nails (I love a bit of nail art), and you'll have exclusive access to my collection of Essie nail polish's.

 Sounds great right....well it gets even better...... 

It's a manicure with a difference because ALL proceeds  go to charity!

You will be left polished to perfection, and can leave knowing you've potentially made a lasting difference in the life of a smalll child living in poverty in Malawi.

If ever there was an excuse to get your nail's done, this is the prefect one.

Polish Change - £5

Full Manicure - Shape & Polish £7

Contact Me via

text/call 07761501745 / Blog Comment / Facebook Message / Tweet

xx

P.S Sorry to say that my Chairty Open Mic Night is no longer going ahead due to lack of suitable venue space. :(