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A.F.E

You will be teaching English to young girls through the Action Femme Enfant organisation who support vulnerable single mothers and their children. A.F.E is on the northwest coast of Senegal; you will be living in the lively yet humble neighbourhood of Pikine. 

Your Project

Saint Louis is a long way off the track although it is an important tourism centre of the country hosting an International Jazz Festival every April. It has large, sandy streets and although taxis are a common means of transport, so are horses and carts. Many people in Saint Louis have a strong faith and you will have a chance to learn about Islam while becoming fully integrated into Senegalese culture as the two are closely linked especially in Northern Senegal. French is spoken by some, but most people only speak Wolof. You will quickly develop a basic ability to communicate which will progress throughout your year. 

A.F.E are an association in Saint Louis whose objective is to help kids (those under 18 years) to develop and have a better future. They began their work aiding girls with conflicts at home, but as they sometimes have kids themselves, the project got bigger and the association now comprehends also a school for the kids in need, since in Senegal only the children aged 7 can enrol at public schools. 

 
You will be responsible for teaching at the centres school grounds, looking after the centres young people and the vocation school to provide a necessary education to the ones that need to begin sustaining themselves. There are around 80 members of the centre, aged from 1 to 25+ of all abilities and educational levels. The number of members you will support means the centre is always busy and work can be demanding and challenging but you will see a high level of impact from the work you do and come to be good friends with the members. Most members have some level of French (and a lot speak it very well) so your teaching can take place in French, English, and as your Wolof improves, also in Wolof.  

Accommodation

You will live in the centre where you and your partner will share a bedroom. There is also a bathroom with pretty much always running water and a shower. You will eat meals with the other centre staff and the families you will find yourself quickly becoming part of – spending time there drinking attaya (Senegalese tea), meeting friends and practicing your Wolof/French. There are lots of nearby shops to buy any essential bits and pieces although the market is never far and you can get anything there – if you know where to look! 

Your living allowance provided by Project Trust will cover your daily living costs.

Important Information

The following pages contain important information relating to your Volunteer placement. Please make sure you read them thoroughly.