The below blog post was written by Tina, who returned from The Great Gorilla Project two weeks ago. This text is accompanied by photos taken by Lesley, another member of the same group.
I've had a bucket list for a while now and after a few difficult personal issues, I made the decision to start ticking things off! I decided to use The Great Projects after looking at reviews and finding out more about Uganda and gorillas before booking. Before I knew it I realised I was going to join a group I had never met, in a country I had never been to before and I will be honest, I was anxious about the trip etc, but I emailed The Great Projects and they had support and advice as needed.
I've volunteered in the UK but was nervous they’d be a language barrier, but everyone on the project was amazing and we felt fully welcomed and informed. The planting of herbs trees with the children and project workers was just humbling, the children were amazing in having patience to show us what needed doing. Compared to my volunteer work in the UK, these experiences are a great learning curve for me.
Of course, we saw two families of Gorillas, I felt numb and pinched myself that it was happening to me! Along the way, we experienced various other amazing animals which was an experience in and of itself.
The group I was with was such fun and many thought we had booked together as a group! It was like we’d known each other for years even though we’d all just met for the first time on the 25th January! We have even agreed to meet again doing the same trip in 5 years’ time and currently are in touch as a group, looking at how we can support the project we were honoured to spend time with.
For those thinking of doing this trip, you could not pick a better company to take you on this life-changing trip. Thank you to The Great Projects and the amazing people who embraced us and the lovely ladies I'm now friends with.
DO IT! LIFE IS FOR LIVING, LIVE YOUR DREAMS!
