Behold, I stand at the door and knock,
If anyone hears my voice and opens the door,
I will come into him and dine with him,
And him with me.
Revelations 3:20 (NIV)
My time in Cameroon
My Cameroon adventure
In 2011 a work colleague made a request for volunteers to help him with some charity work in Cameroon. There were many interested colleagues, but when they found out that they had to pay for their travel, they declined. I, however, saw it as a great opportunity to help others and experience another culture.
Where I stayed in Cameroon
Cameroon has 10 states, 8 speaking French and 2 English. I stayed at this English speaking private school.
I stayed at the Assistant Principle house
A week at the school
I was in Cameroon for 2 weeks and 1 week I ran an art class for the children after there normal class hours. I brought a suitcase full of art supplies for the children, that ranged from about 10 years old to 17 years old. Their behaviour and enthusiasm was outstanding. The principle of the school was very professional and the assistant head was my help. I also stayed at his home with his 17 year old relative, a wonderful lad.
Photos taken at the school and surrounding area. The principle is wearing a white and pink shirt. There was also a church service and prizes were given out to the best artwork for a boy and girl.
Running the Art Class
Early Starters
The watercolour class lasted for a week and started after normal class hours ended. The classes were full because of the enthusiasm shown by the children. When the class started there were not enough seats lefts and some had to look in from the window. This video shows some of the early starters.
The children at work
Teaching
It was a pleasure teaching these children watercolour painting. I loved their effort and a strong desire to learn.
The proud principle
The proud principle
The vice-principle was supervising the class and he was so proud of them that he took photos of their work.
My first experience on a motor bike
Driving to town
This was my first experience on a motor bike.
Not only that, I did not wear a helmet. My adrenaline started to race and I became extra alert. It was either this or a long walk from the school to the town.
Night driving
Then I had to take a ride into town on a motor bike at night. It was pitch black and there was lightning. A ditch was to my right. What an experience.
Typical street scene in Cameroon
While waiting for my transport I decided to record this video. Cameroon was a great adventure for me coming from my stable life in England. The most memorable part was working with the children. It was such a unique and wonderful experience.