Every so often, a volunteer’s experience grows into something far greater than the months they spend with Africa & Asia Venture (AV). It becomes a story that continues to unfold years later—shaped by genuine connection, shared ambition, and the lasting impact of cultural exchange.
One of our former gap year volunteers recently shared an extraordinary journey that began during their placement at Kitumbe Primary School in Kericho, Kenya back in 2011. During their time in the classroom and on the sports field, they formed a meaningful bond with an 8-year-old student named Bramwel – an eager learner who quickly became a standout presence in his volunteer experience. What followed is a remarkable story of handwritten letters, an unexpected reconnection a decade later, and a volunteer who chose to support their former student through university—culminating in a reunion at his graduation in Kenya.
Stories like this remind us why meaningful volunteering matters. It’s not just about ticking off the gap year experiences, but the relationships, opportunities, and lifelong impact that can grow from them…..
“During my time volunteering at Kitumbe Primary School, Kericho, there was one student that really stood out and made a real impression – at only 8 years old, Bramwel was incredibly engaging and keen to learn/build a friendship. I taught him in various classes and also on the sports pitches. Over my 3 month period at the school we built a great bond and following my return to the UK we wrote letters to keep in touch (before smart phones were a thing!). Over time we lost touch, but in the back of my mind I had always thought if there was anyway I could support him I would.
Around 10 years after I had volunteered, Bramwel reached out. On the letterhead of the letters I had written was my parents home landline number – my mum picked up and put 2 and 2 together and passed on my mobile number for me to reconnect with Bramwel. He told me of his desire to study nursing at one of the top Kenyan universities, Kenya Methodist University, but without the means to do so. It was an easy decision for me to support him and cover his university fees for this degree. Bramwel completed his studies and 4 years later was his graduation – I flew out to Kenya and travelled up to his university in Meru for the graduation. It was a special moment to be reunited with my old student 14 years later, and to experience his graduation ceremony.
My experience in Kenya had such a profound and meaningful impact on me – it massively influenced who I am today and how I view the world, and I am so glad to have been able to give back in some way to one of my students that played a part in my incredible experience. To this day, my 3 months volunteering in Kenya remains one of my standout life experiences.”
Ed Hoyle, AV Kenya 2011