Zimbabwe
After over six years of volunteering with International HELP, I finally had the opportunity to experience one of our training trips firsthand. As someone who’s worked behind the scenes for years, being on the ground, face-to-face with Community Health Workers, was humbling and inspiring.
Here are four key takeaways that left a impression on me:
1. A Hunger to Learn
One of the first things that struck me was how eager the Community Health Workers were to learn. They brought an incredible level of energy and curiosity to every session. Whether we were discussing diabetes, nutrition-related illnesses, or diving deeper into advanced concepts, their attentiveness and enthusiasm never wavered. It reminded me why education is such a powerful tool. When people are truly invested in gaining knowledge, real change becomes possible.
2. Meeting Face-to-Face
After years of hearing about our partners from afar, meeting them in person was a gift. There’s something incredibly powerful about looking someone in the eye, sharing a meal, and laughing together between sessions. I loved getting to know all of their names and see all their different personalities.
3. Stories of Impact
Hearing how our Community Health Workers have applied past trainings in their own communities was incredibly moving. They shared stories about how previous sessions had helped them improve health outcomes, educate families, and even save lives. These testimonials were a powerful reminder that what we do doesn’t just stay in the classroom, it goes outward into real communities.
4. Seeing Our Process in Action
While I’ve been involved in developing and supporting our training materials for years, seeing our process in action was eye-opening. The trainings are incredibly hands-on, interactive, and empowering. Watching the health workers ask thoughtful questions, engage in discussions, and take ownership of the material made me proud to be part of this project.
This trip reaffirmed my belief in the mission of International HELP:
“We envision the end of preventable diseases in underprivileged areas globally through educating and empowering local people to be healthcare leaders, whose impact will change the course of their community.”
I’m forever grateful for this experience and even more motivated to continue supporting our work!
Written By: Reagan Hearns – IHELP Development Assistant
