Zara successfully applied for funding towards the costs of a volunteer placement in Fiji with Think Pacific. Read below about Zara’s month abroad.
I found my placement through Think Pacific’s Instagram page, which led me directly to their website. The application process was straightforward—I applied online and heard back from them within a week.
My experience abroad was incredible, offering insight into Fijian culture and the chance at developing myself. One of the memories I’ll cherish forever is the deep connections formed between the UK volunteers and the Fijian youth. Witnessing strangers becoming friends and bonds growing stronger over time was beautiful. Participating in the mental health workshop and engaging with the Lomai Village was a memorable experience. Among my favourite moments were the times spent connecting with the younger children. Their energy and kindness left a lasting impression on me. We would dance to ‘Follow the leader’ on repeat every day, as the children loved it.
My daily routine in Lomai Village differed greatly to my usual life at home. I’d be woken up by the sound of chickens and start my day around 6:30 or 7:00 a.m., carefully emerging from my mosquito net and heading straight for a bucket shower or a wash in the river. After brushing my teeth outside, I’d get ready for the morning workshops. The daily workshops were different, but the workshops typically wrapped up around noon.
Afterward, I’d take walk back home to enjoy a home-cooked lunch, often fresh fish with rice or noodles and cassava, shared with my Fijian family and UK volunteer. It was a nice change to come back to a cooked meal as I live alone so this was a treat for me. The afternoons were for the cultural courses, where we learned various aspects of Fijian life, followed by sports.
In the evenings, we socialised with the locals and had dinner either at our homes or with a neighbour, and the night often ended with a traditional Kava session. Weekends were slightly different—Saturdays usually involved a trip or some downtime, while Sundays were reserved for church, chilling and chatting.
Once my project began, I had no phone signal or access to wifi and limited access to clean water, which made it challenging to adapt to this new environment. One of the hardest adjustments was the lack of privacy, especially since I’m used to living alone. When I focused on overcoming these obstacles and making the most of the experience it became a lot easier. Despite these challenges, everything worked out for me, and I wouldn’t change anything about my experience.
My experience abroad gave me a new perspective on Fijian culture, contributing meaningfully to my personal growth. Being immersed in a different way of life has deepened my respect for the people and broadened my understanding of the world.
Professionally, living alongside Fijians has made me more aware of their challenges, particularly regarding mental health issues and social disadvantages. This experience has enhanced my ability to understand and better serve Fijian clients in my future work.
My top tips for students preparing to go abroad are:
- Pack Light: Bring only the essentials and pack as lightly as possible. You’ll be grateful later when you don’t have to lug around a heavy suitcase. Plus, under packing gives you the flexibility to adapt and have room to bring more things home with you.
- Embrace the Experience: Keep an open mind, explore and be ready to meet new people and dive into new experiences. The more you immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with others, the richer your experience will be and the more you will thrive.