Today was our first full day on the job site. We started fast, working in the same groups as yesterday. We were working with Trey and beginning the rough outlines of the kindergarten’s outdoor areas, such as the playground. We took on many new roles and pushed ourselves in several problem-solving scenarios.
For example, we encountered areas where we could not dig deep enough due to hard rocks. Using outside-the-box thinking and creative solutions, we managed to complete the outline of the playground and move on to the other side of the path.
Beyond our group, others were learning effective ways to excavate rocks, collect sand, build furniture such as shelving, and practise other new and exciting skills.
We had a breakfast very similar to yesterday’s, with cheese sausages and spicy chicken as new additions—both were very good. Lunch was our first packed meal on site (of many), made up of snacks to keep us going through our first work day. For dinner, spaghetti awaited us after a long day, along with some new seating and trivia to get us thinking.
There were many interesting moments, such as discovering a limestone deposit and finding out that the “baboon cave” at the toilets actually housed a pigeon. These were day-defining moments I won’t forget.
As a leader today, I felt that being the first is always difficult, but I am not one to shy away from a challenge, and I think my fellow leaders are no different. I hope the leaders taking over tomorrow will use what we have learned today, apply it, and pass it on to those who come next.
Today was fun, and it is really great to finally have boots on the ground—working hard and helping this community we are joining. After another night’s sleep and another day’s experience, I hope we can keep having as great a time as we did today.
James, Lucas and Frank
