Day 1 — An unexpectedly beautiful start

What a surprise this morning when our sponsored children arrived at the hotel after breakfast. Completely unexpectedly, they came to greet their sponsored parents—a special moment that resonated deeply with the sponsored parents as well. They found each other in a calm and loving way. Some were a little shy, others immediately enthusiastic, but in the end, each sponsored child walked hand in hand with their sponsored parent.

Together we went to the Monkey Park, where most of the children had never seen a monkey up close. Just like earlier in the morning, there were some daredevils and some hesitant ones—but with a little patience and encouragement, they all happily fed the monkeys.

After our magical visit to Monkey Park, we headed to the restaurant together. What a treat: a plate full of fries and chicken, especially for our sponsored children. For many, it was the first time they'd had something like this—and you could see it in their eyes.

We'd provided extra portions so they could go home with a full stomach and some leftovers. Whatever was left over would go back to their families, where they would surely devour it with just as much gusto and gratitude. And then: soda. A true treat, something they'd never experienced before. Just holding that bottle in their hands was pure joy.

Afterward, we all went to Paradise Beach. A sea… so big! A beach… so white! And so much water… "What is this?" some asked in surprise.

With great patience and a whole lot of fun, they took their first steps into the sea. At first, cautiously, one foot at a time, but soon they were rolling in the water, splashing around, and the balls were flying back and forth. Their laughter filled the air.

For children who rarely venture outside their villages, this was a day like no other. A day full of firsts. A day they'll never forget, and one they'll tell their stories about back home with sparkling eyes.

It was also a deeply moving experience for the sponsored parents. A whole day spent with their sponsored child, filled with connection, warmth, and love.

Today we didn't just touch hearts—we connected them.

Day 2 – With both feet on the ground

Today brought us something that many find difficult to put into words. An experience that touches the heart. We crossed the river on an overcrowded ferry, heading for a small, local village. What we saw, felt, and experienced there left no one unmoved.

We were welcomed with song and dance—so warmly, so genuinely. And yet the people there possess almost nothing. Children in torn clothes, families living on the bare minimum, yet so grateful, so genuinely happy.

We brought bags of rice and distributed them among the ten villages. But what they gave us in return… it was incomparable. They even slaughtered one of their goats to offer us a meal. Authentic, local, prepared with so much love. It touched us deeply.

We got a glimpse into their daily lives. Not a house like ours, made up of rooms. No — there the whole family shares one space. A room where they lived,

There's one bed for the parents, and the children sleep around it on the floor. There are no bathrooms. Just a simple well outside, that's all there is. Cooking is done outside with wood. Electricity is provided by a small solar panel that provides them with electricity for a few hours. They fetch water from wells. They live off their animals and the vegetables they grow.

All of this brings everyone in my group back down to earth. We realize again how luxurious and taken for granted everything is in Belgium. The contrast is stark, but the lesson is simple: happiness isn't found in possessions, but in people. In warmth. In sharing.

We want to give something back. That's why we're starting a fundraiser for this village. The children there deserve clothes that aren't torn, a stuffed animal, a pair of shoes. Something small that means so much to them. Will you join us? Fill a banana box, and for €12 in shipping costs, you'll help the children of this village. Thank you in advance.

Because people who have nothing themselves have shared the little they had with us today.

That affects you. That changes you. You carry that with you, forever.

Day 3 – Laugh, learn, share… and dance!

Today was all about the Seidemann School. As always, we were welcomed with open arms and loud singing by the children—a warm welcome that left no one indifferent.

The gifts we brought brought loads of happy faces. So much genuine joy, so many little moments of happiness.

Even our Jens proved to be a natural teacher. A lesson that will be talked about for a long time, especially by himself, but also by our Seidemann children.

’In the afternoon we enjoyed a delicious local meal in our own school restaurant.

In the afternoon, the sponsored parents visited their sponsored children at home. Touching encounters, warm hands, proud parents, curious siblings, much gratitude, and many happy faces.

And then… an evening never to be forgotten.

First, watch the sunset together. Then, under the stars: fish on the barbecue, fiery djembe music, a campfire… and above all: singing, dancing, and having fun.

So local, so pure, so real — this is the Gambia you don't get to see as a tourist.

What a day. What a wealth. What a sense of community.

The sponsored parents will carry this piece of Gambia with them forever.

Day 4 – A big step forward

Today was a day that will stay with us for a long time.

We had an important and hopeful meeting with UNICEF Gambia. We received a warm welcome and were treated with great respect for what we, as a private organization, do for Gambian children.

And the good news? We're getting involved and connected with all the agencies and their partners to participate in all their programs!

This means that the children of our private school also have access to the same support that government schools receive:

– Vaccinations

– Programs around girls and women's care

– Health projects

– And so much more.

We are grateful, proud and hopeful for what is yet to come.

In the afternoon, we drove to school, where all the sponsored children and their parents were present. The boxes you, as sponsoring parents, sent with so much love were distributed—and the joy on everyone's faces was indescribable.

Additionally, each family received an additional 25kg bag of rice, thanks to a small surplus of sponsorship money and a contribution from Safi vzw. A wonderful gesture that truly makes a difference.

To round off the day, we went to the local market to buy handmade goods. We'll soon be bringing these back to Belgium to sell at the Fairtrade markets. This way, we support two sides simultaneously: the local artisans here and the school in Gambia with the proceeds.

Today we really felt it: every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to a world with equal opportunities.

Day 5 – A party to remember 🎉

Today the long-awaited big school party took place for the children of the Seidemann School — and what a day it was!
A real party at school is rare here, so expectations were high… and they were far exceeded!
Music was playing in the schoolyard, the children were dancing, playing games in groups and thoroughly enjoying themselves.
From puzzles to duck fishing, from plasticine to tattoos — there was so much to do!
And yes, a bouncy castle was also ready. So much joy, so much laughter, so much childhood happiness all in one place.🥳
The parent committee, along with the sponsored parents, provided a delicious meal. It was a day full of color, games, music, and camaraderie—one that will live long in the memories of these children.
For most, it was the perfect start to the Easter holidays.
But it was also a day of farewell.
Sponsored parents said goodbye to their sponsored children... a moment that wasn't easy for some children, with tears here and there. But above all, we saw radiant faces, warm hugs, and hearts full of gratitude.
Today was rare, special and deeply human.
A celebration of love, friendship and endless childhood happiness.❤️

Day 6: A day full of colours, scents and good care

After a few intense, busy days, it was time for a slightly slower pace today. But sitting still? That's not in our vocabulary!

We visited Brikama, where local woodcarvers skillfully create beautiful wooden sculptures. Each piece tells a story—and soon we'll bring those stories back to Belgium. All proceeds from these artworks will go back to our project. This way, the circle of giving and receiving continues.

We also immersed ourselves in the colorful chaos of the local markets. What a bustle, what aromas, what a vibrant life, and a wonderful opportunity to soak up the authentic atmosphere of Gambia.

A wonderful meeting also took place with the school's parent committee. We hear the same thing again and again: how much respect and appreciation there is for our principal, Bodejo Jawo, who leads this school with a heart of gold. His dedication, love for the children, and commitment to quality education are not only felt—they are deeply cherished by the entire community.

Of course, our teachers were also honored today. Because those who care for our children with such love and dedication every day deserve a gift and a thank you.

We also made home visits to several children with fragile health. We closely monitor their situation, providing support and medication where necessary. No child should be left behind—we are committed to this with heart and soul.

We ended the day with a delicious dinner. Enjoy, relax, and savor the local cuisine without a care in the world. Because that's all part of this trip.

Day 7 – Farewell with a warm heart

The last day of our immersion trip began early for some, with a visit to Tanji, the colorful fishing village on the coast. The lively market, the scent of the sea, the calling fishermen, the colorful boats—a place where Gambian life converges in all its purity. An experience that resonates and lingers.

’The afternoon was dedicated to saying goodbye. Farewells to people who now feel like family.

We gathered one last time on the beach for a delicious meal. While enjoying the sea view, we reflected on this unique immersive journey: the encounters, the smiling faces, the shared emotions, the work done—and above all, the hearts we leave behind. Now we're heading home with our minds full of plans.