2016 – A year at LIV Village, KZN, South Africa
 
2016 got off to an unexpected start; after a delay in the process of my visa due to violence in South African universities and the subsequent change of visa type, my outlook on my planned life in South Africa was presenting a lot different to reality. I had originally intended to study education in South Africa, whilst working at LIV Village as a trainee teacher, but a change in study fees sent higher education in the country into turmoil, and the threat of violence seemed too high a risk to pay. It’s oddly comforting to see how God intervenes in our plans and shows us that His way is better than our way, if a little unconventional. A two month delay, and three trips to Mainland England later, I was at the airport with my volunteer visa in hand, and a little confused albeit enthused to see what the year would hold.

We are writing just a few days after our return to the UK after nearly two years living in Durban, South Africa serving as volunteers at Umthombo Street Children Organisation. The trip has been life-changing for us, we have learnt so much about God, the world, social justice, ourselves and each other! We are incredibly grateful to God for His constant protection and provision throughout our time there, and so grateful to the Timios Trust for the funds given towards our travel to and from South Africa.