Nicole’s Inspiring Volunteering Journey in Kenya
Nicole, daughter of Bakers Solicitors' Jennifer Ryan, recently embarked on a life-changing volunteering trip to Kenya, generously supported by Bakers. Her trip, which took place at the end of October and into early November, was filled with touching experiences and meaningful contributions that left a profound impact on the local community and Nicole herself.
A Delayed Start with an Unforgettable Stop
After enduring a long travel delay, Nicole and her group arrived in Kenya a day later than planned. However, their spirits were lifted with a visit to an elephant sanctuary on the outskirts of Nairobi en route to Nakuru. Here, Nicole witnessed the care provided to baby elephants and captured memorable photos of them being fed—a heartwarming glimpse into Kenya’s dedication to wildlife preservation.
Making a Difference in Nakuru
The core of Nicole’s trip centered on volunteering at a local school in Nakuru, where she brought joy and practical help to the children. Bakers Solicitors donated watercolor palettes and other art supplies, and Nicole spent time teaching the children how to use them—many experiencing such tools for the first time. The children’s delight in the colored pencils and other supplies underscored the importance of the donations.
Nicole also immersed herself in the students’ daily lives, assisting them with schoolwork, sharing laughter during break times, and even allowing the children to braid her hair—a favorite activity among her new friends. She served lunches and on one special day, made chapatis for the children, a beloved treat that brought smiles to many faces.
Eye-Opening Home Visits
A particularly emotional aspect of Nicole’s trip was visiting the homes of some of the children. These one-room huts, often made from sticks and mud and lacking front doors, revealed the stark realities of their living conditions. Out of respect, Nicole refrained from taking photos, but the experience moved her deeply.
Motivated by empathy, Nicole and her fellow volunteers donated their spending money to support the families they visited. The funds were used to purchase food supplies, providing nourishment for three months. Nicole also contributed personally to help install a floor in a classroom that had been rendered unusable, turning it into a functional learning space. Additionally, she helped build classroom furniture, funded by the trip’s fundraising efforts.
A Memorable Farewell and Reflection
On the journey back to Nairobi, Nicole and the group visited a giraffe sanctuary, where they had the rare opportunity to hand-feed giraffes—a fitting conclusion to a trip filled with connections to Kenya’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
Reflecting on her experience, Nicole shared that the greatest lesson she learned was the resilience and joy of the children she met. Despite having so little materially, their happiness and positivity left a lasting impression.
Nicole’s journey exemplifies the power of compassion and the difference one can make through dedication and generosity. Bakers Solicitors is proud to have supported her in this meaningful endeavor.
