Hilmiye, derdejaars student leraar Engels.

My name is Hilmiye and I am I in the third year of my study at the HAN University of Applied Sciences in Nijmegen, pursuing my bachelor’s degree to become an English teacher. My study has been extremely inspirational and allowed me to express my ambition to help others in communicating with a universal language.

Why South-Africa?

For my minor I had to do my internship in an English speaking country. When I found out about the TWK program I was extremely excited and I knew from that moment on that I would absolutely love to go to South-Africa.

Since I was little I used to see people in need on television and think about how little we care about others. I was confused and thought about how it was possible that many countries have an overload of food and some people suffer because of the lack of it.

I have always loved to contribute when I have the chance and I often found myself eager to find a way to help others. With the TWK program I would be in a position to actually be the aid others need. I believe that being a boost for others does not only consist of giving money but also time, energy and passing on knowledge. I applied for the TWK program in order to mean something to the community in South-Africa and inspire in any way possible.

Where did I stay?

The village I live in is called Genadendal. The community of this little valley is extremely welcoming and were very sweet from the beginning on. Horses, cows, chickens and dogs are on the streets and the mountains around us are a feast for the eyes.

My internships were at the primary and secondary school of this beautiful valley. I helped English teachers by having my own small classes with the weaker English pupils. I also participated at the primary school one day a week to help with the ‘arts & crafts’ project for the academically challenged students.

What do I bring back?

I arrived in South-Africa with little to no expectations in order to have an open mindset. By doing so I found myself accepting the culture more easily and I was fully enjoying my days.

The people of South-Africa taught me how to relax and simply enjoy life more. Their laid back attitude showed me another way of living and I felt no pressure of failing anymore. By releasing stress I actually realized that I also became more creative and enjoyable which benefitted me and others tremendously.

Moreover, I figured how spoiled we actually are in The Netherlands and it made me appreciate my opportunities more as a teacher but also as a person.

All in all, I enjoyed myself tremendously during my time abroad and learned a lot as a teacher but also as a person. Never could I ever imagine to explore life and feel alive this much.

Thank you,
Hilly