I am Olha Khomiak, I have done the IB program in Sidcot and became an alumnus in 2023. I won the Travel Award in 2023 and secured £850 from the Sidcot Education Trust to support my travel plans. Due to the busyness in my last year of school, I decided to go as soon as the exams were over for two weeks.

I set out on a life-changing journey to Costa Rica, a country noted for its magnificent landscapes, diverse wildlife, and outstanding conservation initiatives. The goal of my trip was not only to enjoy the beauty of this Central American treasure but also to actively contribute to maintaining its distinct ecosystems. In Costa Rica, I went on a volunteer trip for turtle conservation and sloth monitoring.

In this preservation endeavour, I participated in nighttime beach patrols to save turtle nests and their eggs. We were pro-active in preventing poaching and provide these amazing animals with the safety needed throughout their delicate nesting seasons. Seeing hatchlings make their way towards the water for the first time was a truly touching event, mainly because we knew that our efforts were helping these threatened species survive.

For the sloth study we tracked and recorded the behaviour and movements of these little creatures. We gained knowledge of the many species and their behaviours in addition to providing important information that supports their protection.

My experience volunteering in Costa Rica was truly life changing. Being able to actively contribute to conservation efforts was a rewarding and very instructive experience. I gained knowledge of the complex network of life in the rainforest, the precarious equilibrium that keeps it alive, and the difficulties it faces in a world that is always changing.

In addition to the conservation effort, I got to talk to other volunteers from across the globe. We bonded over enduring friendships and exchanged tales and cultural experiences. From experiencing traditional food to learning about the dynamic local populations and their links to the land, the cultural immersion in Costa Rica was equally enriching.

To sum up, my trip to Costa Rica was an unforgettable experience. It helped me understand the importance of conservation efforts, broadened my respect for the natural world, and allowed me to make a difference for something bigger than myself.

I will always cherish the experiences I had in Costa Rica, along with the landscapes, animals, and people who left a lasting impression on me. I came home with a fresh dedication to environmental care. Costa Rica genuinely lives up to its moniker as a natural paradise with its unspoiled beauty and conservationist attitude.

I strongly advise you to apply for the Travel Award as it will greatly help with the prices of flights and programs itself. I am grateful to the Sidcot Education Trust for making this experience possible!