Hello everyone, this is Michel Steiner, checking in from my latest visit to the Bana Mayele Educational Centre in Kinshasa, Congo.
This being my fourth visit to Kinshasa, the sights, sounds, and smells of Congo were now familiar to me. At last, after a 22-hour trip from Zurich, the gates of the compound were open before us and the first glace into the central yard was a pleasant contrast from the poverty, dirt and confusion that was part of the reality for the 16 million inhabitants that surrounded us. The various quarters of the facility, all lighted in the midnight sky with garden lamps giving it an almost surreal atmosphere.
Morning Excitement
The next morning after coffee the excitement mounted as we toured the grounds to see what changes had taken place since our last visit. The dining hall and kitchen showed the most striking transformation from just a year ago.
Transformations at Bana Mayele
Fully outfitted, decorated and able to cater to up to 300 guests, capable of hosting occasional weddings and funerals as a potential self-sustainment and vocational training possibility for the young inhabitants of the Centre the final piece of the operational infrastructure was in place. From now on the focus could be transitioned to education, expansion and further development and improvement of the program.
Team Dynamics
My assignment was unique this year – film director. I embarked on a new challenge to my already broad spectrum of responsibilities as the Founder and Director of SNI; that being, to help present Bana Mayele to the world. With camera and microphone in hand, a dedicated team member and I set out to showcase the realities of central Africa to those who have never experienced this part of the world.
The Power of Volunteering
My travel companion, Joachim from Germany, a former professional sports car racer, mechanical engineer, electrician and general all-rounder, jumped straight into any task that he could find needed improvement to keep his active mind productive. After checking the water tanks, inspecting the pump system, he turned his capabilities to the two vehicles used daily. Clearly, he was in his element, as a volunteer he brought his most valuable assets to Congo, know-how and initiative.
High Gear Operations
By the second day, our full team had arrived and our operation moved into high gear. With volunteers taking on roles such as sports trainers holding activities and games, teachers passing on the basics of English while learning from the kids the local language themselves, medics to help the doctors on site and a wide variety of other responsibilities, each individual was in good spirits, ready to help tackle new challenges every day at Bana Mayele.
Reflecting on the Journey
As I reflect on this incredible journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the dedicated team, our local Project Manager Madlen, and volunteers who bring their skills, passion, and heart to Bana Mayele. Each visit renews my commitment to this mission and strengthens my resolve to continue expanding our reach.
Looking to the Future
Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of these children, offering them not just a place to learn, but a place to thrive. As we look to the future, our goal remains clear: to provide even more children with the opportunities they deserve, and to nurture their potential in an environment where they can truly flourish.