TRAVEL REPORT
Moin!
My name is Ihno, I'm 28 years old and I'm in my last semester of primary school teaching in Oldenburg. I grew up in East Frisia, where I was and still am active as a volunteer in the EC.
How it all began:
I first heard about Buhay at Christival 2022 when Joana told me about it on stage and that she lives in Oldenburg. After she then gave an input to the SMD university group in Oldenburg almost a year later in April 23, everything happened relatively quickly and in June I spontaneously decided to experience Buhay on site for a month in July and fly to the Philippines.
‘When I think of buhay, I think of growth, personal, valuable, being accepted, empowerment, love and honesty.
– Ihno
My time in Manila
By travelling to buhay, I left Europe for the first time and stepped out of my comfort zone and it was worth it. Even under difficult circumstances, the local people are very grateful and have a lot to be happy about. There is so much complaining in Germany and many people are dissatisfied with what they have... But we're actually doing really well here in Germany and we should be much more grateful!
Besides, it doesn't take much to pass on love, helpfulness and kindness :) I was definitely able to experience the Buhay motto ‘You make the difference’ there and will take that with me for the future. We also spent a lot of time and silence in God's presence! Since then, I've been able to make more of these times with God at home, which enriches my life in a positive way.
I am very grateful that I was able to experience buhay's work on the ground. Buhay is close to the people and helps where help is needed. It's about every single person! Buhay speaks so much value into the people, which is very moving and powerful. You also realise that God's love and blessing is on this project at all times! It's hard to put into words how much he enables and blesses. The amount of positive change that is happening here is incredible.
The power and energy Joana has put into this project for seven years is more than amazing! She allows herself to be guided by God's voice and not only strengthens the people on site, but also many volunteers! Anyone who knows Buhay knows that it is a project that is absolutely close to her heart and worth every ounce of support. Through concrete prayers or financial means - it's worth it! You make the difference!