VSO Orientation in Lusaka

My first week in Zambia was spent in the capital Lusaka at the Commonwealth Youth Centre where our VSO In-country Induction Programme took place. We were kept busy throughout the week with various briefings, lessons on Zambian culture, history and politics as well as various events. Some of the highlights included:

- The Volunteer Committee Welcome Brai (i.e. BBQ) was put on by current volunteers and gave everyone the chance to get to know each other a little better, as well as ask some of those “curious” questions 

- A reception at the British High Commissioners Residence to welcome the VSO volunteers to Zambia (not something most of us would generally get to do at home!)

- On the last day meeting our new employers and a culture evening to finish off the week. The culture evening included local food and dancing and was a fun way to complete our week in Lusaka.

Probably the best part of the week however was getting to meet the other 20 or so volunteers who came from countries all over the world. Amongst the volunteers were very different life experiences, cultures and reasons for being in Zambia, however all were keen to travel to their new homes (for those staying in Lusaka this meant only travelling a few kilometres up the road) and getting started in their new roles.