Come to Kenya with us

Volunteering as an education helper for Spur Afrika in Kibera (Jan 2020) was an incredibly enlightening experience. Not only did it provide a meaningful opportunity to support the work of medical professionals, staying and helping in the community was the best way to learn exactly how Spur runs a sustainable model to engage, educate and empower the local community which was important to me as a supporter.

I particularly enjoyed meeting the local professionals who volunteer as mentors to the children. The local Spur Afrika team and volunteers were very welcoming and open to answering questions. As the facilitator for the mentor training day, I really valued meeting local professionals and learning from their experience and passion.

Best of all was the music, celebrations and conversations. I highly recommend this experience for anyone interested in exploring, cultural exchange and making a difference where you can.

We had the privilege of being a part of the Spur 2024 trip as part of our honeymoon. We have known Rosalie and David for a number of years and have always been encouraged by their Spur sharing at church and fundraisers. The idea of going to be part of the change we wanted to see was a huge draw for us.

As educators, we identify with the values and mission of Spur, and after meeting Patoh and Sue took the chance when it came up.

I (Brandon) have been to Kibera twice (2018 and our 2024 honeymoon) and both times it was life changing. The growth of Spur and the hope of Kibera has always been so encouraging. We've never encountered such genuine humanity and were inspired by how much love and purpose the Spur workers and volunteers have for the cause. The children have no boundaries to hope and it was such an eye opening experience to be a part of. We would love to go again, and hope to one day bring our son and family with us.

The struggles in Kibera and the challenges faced by families in Kisumu were raw and real, yet what stood out most was the incredible spirit of the Kenyan people. Meeting the children, hearing their stories, and experiencing their resilience and joy firsthand was incredibly humbling and inspiring. Despite hardships, there was so much laughter, music, and dancing that reminded me of the strength of community and gratitude for the little things.

On top of that, the everyday experiences were unforgettable—the food was incredible, the clothes so colourful, and we learned so much about Kenyan culture through conversations and shared moments. Along the way, I made wonderful friendships and now carry with me memories of colourful matatus, joyful music, and, above all, the warmth and strength of the people I met.

If you’re considering a Spur trip—take the leap. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever.

Carolyn and I weren’t sure what to expect when we first signed up for a Spur missions’ trip in 2019. The cost, the travel, and even the thought of being far from home made us wonder if we were making the right decision.

Looking back, it was one of the most life-changing experiences we’ve ever had.

From setting up video conferences between students from my school in Melbourne with students from Kibera to share their lives with each other, to the moment we arrived in Nairobi, we were struck by the warmth and hospitality of the local community.

Working alongside Patoh, Sue and the Spur Team, sharing stories, and seeing firsthand the impact of even small contributions and their work locally amongst children and families, was incredibly humbling.

The trip gave us new eyes to see the world — and reminded us that serving others often ends up shaping us just as much as it helps them.

If you’re thinking about going but have doubts, we encourage you to take the step. Spur creates a safe, well-organised, and deeply meaningful experience. You won’t regret it; in fact, you might just find that it changes the way you live your everyday life back home.

This trip had been a dream of mine since I was a kid. I’ve always wanted to volunteer overseas, to see what life was like outside the world I grew up in. So when the chance finally came, I was excited but also pretty nervous and worried. The cost, time off work, being far from everything familiar, the safety… it all felt overwhelming.

But I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t at least try. So I went.

And honestly? This trip was so much more than I ever imagined. It’s the little moments that have stayed with me: dancing with the Maasai, a picnic in the wild, a leopard chase, unexpectedly running into twin lions, the heartfelt stories shared during home visits, the joy of being welcomed by students with high-fives and curiosity...

I also met some of the most genuine and uplifting friends along the way! We rode matatus, learned Swahili, and cooked Kenyan food together.

I’m so proud of myself for saying yes.

If you're on the fence, I get it. But it was all so worth it! Sometimes the best things happen when you stop overthinking and just go. Trust yourself. You won’t regret it.