The ICS World Challenge to Kerala, India, was a journey to remember and cherish, write DP1 students Mohamed, Colin, Teresa, Jaqueline and Ella.
There were eight of us students on the expedition and we took part in a wide variety of cultural and social activities.
Shortly after arriving, we watched a vibrant and exciting Kathakali dance performance. It was fascinating to experience a folk tale from a vastly different culture and we took away a deeper understanding of Kerala’s people and history.
VIEWS FROM THE TOP
Later, we took a six-hour bus journey through the Western Ghats to reach Munnar for a four-day trek.
Throughout the trek, we were challenged by steep and tough climbs, which rewarded us with astounding views of the surrounding mountains, jungle and flatlands. As well as the views, we also encountered wildlife such as elephants and exotic birds.
Interactions with shop owners and people within the small villages opened our eyes to the local way of life. Each evening at camp brought the team closer together, as we pitched our tents, shared games around the campfire, and enjoyed dinners of traditional Keralan food. Some of us even had the opportunity to experience some of the world’s hottest chillies!
LEARNINGS FOR LIFE
As a team, we had an opportunity to help out a community in Kumily by improving facilities at a local tribal school.
We helped paint several classrooms and organised for a room in the school to be tiled. The three-day project helped us improve on our collaboration skills to accomplish the significant amount of work.
At the end of our project, the school held a ceremony that brought ICS student volunteers and the community together. We heard Indian cultural songs by the students, and saw how to make a basket out of bamboo leaf.
We learnt that you shouldn’t only go on a trip like this for the benefit of yourself or your school. As well as relishing your time there, make sure you do something that benefits local people.