Sophia was awarded a Travel Award from the Sidcot School Education Trust, which helped to fund her trip. The awards support projects that are either charitable or career-enhancing – and, in Sophia’s case, her trip was both.

During her time in Namibia, via charity The Big Roar, Sophia worked at the Namibia Wildlife Project, a sanctuary caring for orphaned and injured animals. She shared some wonderful stories about the animals she met, including Dexter, a mischievous velvet monkey. Sophia first met Dexter one evening when she returned to her room to find him sitting on one of the beds! Dexter soon became a regular visitor, repeatedly breaking into Sophia’s room and helping himself to the snacks she had bought at the airport.

Sophia also spent time volunteering at the Lifeline Clinic, a charity providing support and free healthcare to indigenous communities. The clinic also provides food for women and children. Sophia helped wherever she could, including assisting people with everyday tasks such as washing clothes and washing hair.

Another important part of Sophia’s experience was her work with an anti-poaching unit, which works predominantly to protect rhinos. The team is supported by highly trained dogs, and Sophia spoke particularly fondly of her time with Trigger and Sadie. The dogs are remarkably well trained, they understand four different languages as well as sign language!

As well as sharing stories about her work and the animals she encountered, Sophia gave us an insight into Namibian culture and daily life. She spoke about a church that is attended by women and children, where the bright and colourful surroundings create a vibrant atmosphere. She also described the traditional roles within some indigenous communities, where men may hunt and make fires while women tend to the gardens.

Sophia’s talk gave sixth formers a fascinating glimpse into a very different part of the world, while demonstrating how travel can combine adventure, cultural understanding, charitable work and valuable career experience. Her stories, particularly those involving Dexter, Trigger and Sadie, certainly gave us plenty to remember!