Jesse OdippoHey everyone,
Let me introduce myself: my name is Deborah, I'm 32, and I live in Genoa, Italy. I work as an Italian language and history teacher, so I'm always around teenagers since I teach in a high school. I'd say I'm a dynamic person who's always eager to learn new things and super curious, which is why I decided to travel solo this summer and do some volunteer work.My first volunteering experience was with JAY4T in Kisumu, Kenya, from July 21st to August 10th, 2026.
I'll jump straight to the point: it was one of the most beautiful, powerful, and fascinating experiences I've ever had. Looking back, it was 100% positive.
When I arrived in Kisumu, I was welcomed by Johanssen, literally one of the best people on the planet. Along with him was his whole amazing family: Gift, Shira, Aunt Mary, Jesse, David, and everyone else. Honestly, they welcomed me like I was one of their own and made me feel loved and cared for the entire time. I can't thank them enough—the warm welcome, affection, and love I received will stay in my heart forever.
Deborah’s arrival and reception in Kisumu, Kenya
Working with JAY4T allowed me to collaborate with the Mama Gnina School in Kisumu—a small but truly authentic community. The school has about 60 children of various ages, from a 9-month-old baby to an 18-year-old.
Visit to Mama Ngina Orphanage
We worked on the creative side of things with the kids and tried to focus on play-based activities to make learning easier and more engaging. Every day, the kids were playing, creating, and drawing in a structured, organised way. Inclusion was one of the core aspects: every single student, both neurotypical kids and those with disabilities, took part in the activities. I really think that was the main goal. I had brought games, art supplies, paper, and plenty of other stuff from Italy to support the school.
Artwork done by the children
One of the most heartwarming things is knowing that the other volunteers are continuing the work we started together. During those weeks, we managed to build a learning environment that was fun and playful yet still structured.
Deborah facilitating an arts and crafts session
One afternoon, I also visited the JAY4T offices in Kisumu. Gift and I met a young guy who had questions about training courses, and we ended up talking about youth unemployment.
Deborah’s Visit to the JAY4T Office in Kisumu, Kenya. Gift on the right
Those three weeks flew by with volunteering, endless laughs, fun, tea, and the warm Kenyan sun. If I could, I'd go back in a heartbeat—I miss the people, the warmth, and the school so much. It was truly an unforgettable experience.
More photos from Deborah’s visit
