Joanna

United Kingdom
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Badges (3)

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Profile information

Travel information
I am currently
Travelling
My next destination:
Kenya
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Description
Hi, my name is Jo.
I delight in immersing myself in the wonders of nature, caring for my beloved animals (including cats, chickens, and the enchanting life in my pond), nurturing my garden, indulging in captivating books, dancing to the rhythm of life, savouring the melodies of music, and expressing my creativity through various forms of artistry. Additionally, I relish participating in local dance groups and attending live music events, all while cherishing meaningful connections with my family, friends, and the supportive community that surrounds me, finding joy in the simple pleasures life has to offer.
Interests
Languages
Fitness
Beach
History
Cooking & food
Events & social
Music
Yoga / Wellness
Self development
Sustainability
Pets
Performing arts
Outdoor activities
Nature
Politics / Social justice
Hiking
Gardening
Farming
Drawing & painting
Dancing

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Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
More details about my language interests
I am very interesting in learning languages and improving my Swahili whilst in East Africa.
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Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Languages
DIY and building projects
Hospitality/Tourism
Some knowledge of:
Charity Work
Eco Projects
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
General Maintenance
Helping with Computers/ Internet
Able to teach about:
Art Projects
Being an elderly companion
Teaching
Gardening
Babysitting and creative play
Helping around the house
More details about your skills
I am a recent graduate in Psychosocial and Psychotherapy Studies, equipped with a wealth of professional experience in the field of Mental Health, Community Outreach, and Support Work. My specialisation lies in providing comprehensive support to individuals on the Autism Spectrum and assisting those with learning disabilities in realising their full potential. My approach is deeply person-centred, driven by creativity, and fuelled by a genuine enthusiasm for facilitating transformative experiences through art, drama, play workshops, as well as music and dance movement therapy.
Age
31
What else ...
I'm eager to become an active part of the local community and offer my counselling services.
Some more information
- Smoker
- Driver's licence
- Allergies
- Special dietary requirements

Feedback

12 Feb 2024

Left by host (Community mental and ...) for Workawayer (Joanna)

Dear Joanna,

Thank you so much for your kind words and heartfelt feedback. It truly warms my heart to hear about the meaningful experiences and connections you gained during your time volunteering as a counselor with us.

Your dedication to making a positive impact and immersing yourself in Ugandan culture shines through your words, and we are… read more

(Excellent )

11 Feb 2024

Left by Workawayer (Joanna) for host (Community mental and ...)

My experience volunteering here was truly unforgettable. Working alongside passionate professionals like Jimmy and Denis, who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable young women and girls in Uganda, was incredibly rewarding. Their commitment to providing vital services, particularly in the absence of government support,… read more encompassing leading educational initiatives, challenging toxic masculinity, and providing counselling support and interventions in hard-to-reach areas, all demonstrated a dedication to fostering positive change in the community.

While the accommodation was basic, the warmth and hospitality extended by the neighbours made it feel like home. Their kindness and generosity added to the overall sense of community, making my stay all the more enjoyable.

Moreover, the location itself is nothing short of breath-taking. Surrounded by stunning crater lakes, lush forests, and majestic waterfalls, Fort Portal offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. From swimming in the massive lakes to hiking through picturesque trails, every day was an opportunity to immerse myself in the beauty of nature.

Despite being small, Fort Portal is vibrant and filled with charm. Whether it's exploring local markets, sampling delicious Ugandan cuisine, or simply enjoying the authentic atmosphere, it feels more like a small town despite being labelled as a city, and provides a tranquil retreat from the liveliness often associated with urban areas.

Be mindful, this volunteer role demands physical and emotional resilience. You'll be involved in clients' lives, facing their challenging situations head-on. Leading therapeutic sessions and delivering public speeches about mental health to schools and churches are part of the role. Due to clients' difficulties to reach the office, expect extensive travel on the boda boda, which may not always be comfortable. However, the importance of this mental health work makes the challenges worthwhile.

In summary, my time volunteering as a counsellor here was not just about the meaningful work we did, but also about the unforgettable experiences and connections formed along the way. I would highly recommend this placement to anyone who is in a helping profession, who is seeking to make a positive impact while immersing themselves in the beauty and warmth of Ugandan culture.

(Excellent )