Finding Home In Senegal: A Journey of Connection and Growth

April 22 - Day 10

As I sit down to reflect on my time in Senegal, I’m struck by how much my perspective has shifted. What once felt like discomfort—hot water shortages, unpredictable power outages, and the chaos of overcrowded classrooms—has morphed into a profound sense of belonging. Casa Italia and Louga have become my home away from home, a nurturing family that has embraced me with open arms. Here, I've been given the village name Famma, meaning “neighborhood mom,” and this title warms my heart as I feel truly seen.

Dancing Through Differences

This morning, we introduced the students to the YMCA dance, and in a delightful exchange, they taught me some of their own moves to bring back to my classroom. Interactions over Padlet have fostered connections that I hope will endure long after our time together ends. The joy I find lies in the eagerness of teenagers to communicate and learn from one another, creating a global family.

As I handed out postcards from my students back home, Mansour assured me they would write back. I chuckled, knowing how often homework goes undone in my own classroom. Yet, the students were genuinely touched by the handmade friendship bracelets crafted by Derby students. There were hugs, laughter, and the immediate donning of these tokens on their wrists, solidifying our bond.

A Classroom of Respect

After saying our goodbyes, we headed to Sainte Marie Elementary School. In a classroom filled with 64 students and only two adults, the heat climbed into the 100s, yet the teacher commanded the attention of each tiny child. The admiration and respect these students showed were overwhelming. As we entered, their wide-eyed smiles greeted us, and they eagerly repeated the lesson in unison.

Students stood to answer questions, and when the teacher instructed them to sit, they responded in perfect harmony, “Thank you, sir.” They were learning family names in English, and when they expressed love for their families, they bowed slightly, placing a hand over their hearts. This display of respect was both humbling and inspiring.

Surrounded by Joy

As we exited the classroom, we were engulfed by over 300 children, a scene reminiscent of paparazzi surrounding a celebrity without bodyguards. Their giggles filled the air as they rushed to shake our hands, the girls bending slightly at the knee to show respect. My heart swelled—could it possibly be any more full?

Next, we visited Malick Sall High School, the largest public high school in the region, where I joined our crew for a Q&A with the English Club. I realized that I wasn’t just here to teach; I was here to learn from these remarkable students. Their grace, dedication, and passion for learning were humbling yet empowering. When they sang a song that brought tears to my eyes—an unusual occurrence for me—I felt a deep connection to their spirit.

A Taste of Authenticity

As the temperature climbed to 110°F, we returned to the hotel for a quick cold shower before heading out for an authentic Mauritanian dinner. We arrived at a beautifully decorated tent in the desert, surrounded by colorful blankets and pillows. Shedding our shoes, we washed our hands in the traditional manner and settled in for a feast.

The aroma of tender, spiced chicken and barbecue goat filled the air as we dined together, savoring the moment. After a satisfying meal, we lay back to gaze at the stars, the occasional cattle passing by, and I pondered whether this was what fulfillment truly felt like.

My village name, Famma, bestowed upon me by my hosts and crew, became my new identity and warmed my heart. As the tea ceremony unfolded late into the evening, we decided to trek back to the hotel through the dark, sandy roads, feeling safe and secure. The sounds of Senegalese music drifted from nearby doorways, and my heart continued to fall deeper in love with this beautiful country and its people.

This journey has been transformative, and I look forward to carrying these experiences and connections back home. My new home is not just a place; it’s a feeling, a connection, and a family that I will cherish forever.