Every year, Missio Malta gives volunteers the opportunity to experience mission life firsthand, to walk alongside communities in some of the world’s most remote and vulnerable regions. This year, three groups of Maltese volunteers travelled to Zambia, Kenya, and Tanzania to support local communities through various missionary projects. In this article, two of our volunteers share their first-hand experiences from their journey to Lumezi, Zambia, stories that reveal not only the challenges faced by these communities but also the profound joy, resilience, and faith that shine through in everyday life.
From 14–29 September, I had the privilege of volunteering with Missio in Lumezi, Africa. This two-week missionary experience was both humbling and transformative, shaping me personally and professionally.
During my time there, I visited hospitals, shelters, and schools, bringing donations of books, toys, clothes, and medication from Malta. The joy and gratitude of the community, especially the children, was unforgettable. We played, shared stories, and created moments of happiness that reinforced the power of even the smallest act of generosity.
The experience also taught me invaluable life skills. Language barriers pushed me to listen actively and communicate through smiles, gestures, and empathy. Immersing myself in a new culture broadened my perspective and showed me that differences are opportunities to connect and grow. Working alongside local staff required teamwork, responsibility, and adaptability, while unexpected challenges strengthened my problem-solving and leadership skills.
Beyond service, this journey was a chance to reflect, simplify, and grow. Living without the comforts of home made me more grateful, self-confident, and mindful of what truly matters. I returned to Malta with not only memories but also lessons in compassion, collaboration, and resilience.
Volunteering in Lumezi reminded me that service is not just about what we give. It’s also about what we receive: gratitude, perspective, and a deeper sense of humanity.
By Jeanelle Grech
In September 2025, I travelled to Zambia for a voluntary service experience that deeply influenced me both personally and professionally. After arriving in Lumezi, a rural region, our group was warmly welcomed by Father Grevazio Zulu. We spent the first days meeting local communities and visiting schools where children, despite scarce resources and large class sizes, showed an inspiring eagerness to learn. Sharing simple gifts such as stationery and clothes highlighted both their joy and the inequalities they face.
Our work included visits to villages, schools, and healthcare facilities. We inspected boreholes, some of which had dried up, revealing challenges in access to clean water. At the local hospital, where only four doctors serve the entire facility, we witnessed the realities of limited equipment and medication. We assisted with paediatric and maternity care, encountering cases of malaria, malnutrition, and diarrhoea, and observed the remarkable resilience of both staff and patients.
Moments of cultural exchange, including joyful masses and community celebrations, enriched the experience. Ultimately, the trip taught me profound lessons about resilience, gratitude, and the power of small acts of solidarity. I returned home with a deeper awareness of privilege and a renewed dedication to compassionate service.
By Emma Bondin
The journeys of our volunteers in Zambia are a reflection of what it truly means to live the mission, to serve with compassion, learn with humility, and grow in faith. As Missio continues to support communities in Africa and beyond, these personal encounters serve as a living testament to the power of faith, solidarity, and service. Would you like to experience the beauty of mission life and make a difference in the lives of others? Get in touch with us at info@missio.org.mt learn more about our upcoming volunteer opportunities abroad. Your journey of faith and service could begin today.
