[I was talking to a volunteer and we agree that when we land, the only people that will understand what we had experienced or witnessed will be the ones who have been through it too. Not because people can't empathise but because there are no words to describe what the Filipinos see as "living." Pictures are also deceiving. The photos I have taken look so good but its only a millisecond moment out of 131487 seconds. Its nothing. I'm having to write a personal report so if anyone wants to know what I learnt on some level then here's the story...].

I am 24 and have recently graduated from University with a Degree in Social Care and Deaf studies. I applied to be on the program under VSO who liaise with ICS to gain a global perspective in community work. I find this to be one of the most valuable things a person can experience. This does not only give a person knowledge in worldwide tribulations but can mould a person to become a better individual.

Liaising with different people from different backgrounds with a different outlook has changed my perspective to life as a whole. I no longer just see riches in money but in culture and human need. I am Deaf, I am not seen to be incapable in my own home, but I am seen to acknowledge her rights in the community. This is more than what the Filipino volunteers have. Spending my time with them has made me realise this. Now that I know, I truly am grateful for what I have.

Work placement

The volunteering experience will serve as a good start for me in becoming a Social Worker. Having set up a project during the three month program has made me reflect on my personal accomplishments boosting my self confidence and self-esteem. The Director of my work placement; Gualandi Volunteer Service Program stated; "You will not only be leaving, but you will be leaving a legacy. The Butterfly Project." (JP Maunes). I feel with this statement, I am now able to accomplish so much more than I could possibly imagine. I gained the ability to adapt to cultural differences, both good and bad. I have also managed to adapt to the Filipinos ability to work; both in office and in the community (They are far more relaxed about work than us Brits will ever be). From September to November, we have engaged with a range of associations and individuals in Cebu. Raising awareness from SPed schools to Police departments. I have also introduced the importance of Self-Identity and how it can have a massive influence on how Deaf Filipinos learn, communicate and most of all, perceive themselves.

My learning

Working with people from different backgrounds, I was able to appreciate the essence of team work and unity. The diversity of the group helped us be open minded and to adjust to each other's differences. Whenever there are problems or lacked in certain resources, we found ways to overcome those difficulties. Because of my involvement, I was able to contribute ideas to the organization which then contributed in my personal and professional growth. It is also very overwhelming to become close to different people, that I will remain in contact from the other side of the world.

Self development as a volunteer and Goal: Self-worth

I had developed a sense of confidence over a period of time, but coming to the Philippines has helped me develop a sense of self-worth. Using my experience at home through University has helped me produce various activities which I now value. I have learnt to value myself more that despite what I believe, I know I can achieve certain things if I put my mind to it. I owe it all to VSO.

Program Activity

Dated September, 2014. I supported the well recognized Project "Break The Silence" by visiting a number of schools in Cebu, interacting with young Deaf students in the "Four touching rules." This is to raise awareness in sexual abuse. I plan to show the film GVSP created and currently promote for my at home project.

October-November we slowly developed the project "The Butterfly Project: Changing Deaf Filipinos Lives" to raise awareness in self-worth, self-esteem, boundary and world view. This involved the ability to type up letters to the government and to provide powerpoints for our school workshops.

I shadowed two workshops that were inspiring. FSL and Deaf awareness with the Police at Capitol and AVRC, Active Vocational Rehabilitation Centre teaching them FSL and saying that FSL is not just a privilege but a right.

Host Home

I can say that, I will appreciate the experience I have had during my stay in the Philippines. I have has to adjust and accept cultural differences in the space of what was a home. I was fully aware of their attitude, beliefs and perspective to life through their daily routine. I was also able to acknowledge what I appreciated - family. They often stayed in their rooms and most of them work at night (easier to work when the heat isnt causing us to sweat buckets). So it was difficult to form a bond with them. I can say that my host home counterparts, Phoebe (Boswan City) and Lisa (Ireland) played a big role in making my experience a good one. They are worlds apart but are a perfectly good example that friendship, unity can come from different beliefs, cultures and lives.

Social

We gathered together and had some really good short-breaks. One of my favourites was MoalBoal for MPR, when I played "Black Queen" (cards) with the Filipinos and water polo in the sea. Oslob, visiting places in Cebu resulted in some really good memories. I got to see how the Filipinos interact and learnt some of their slang, which I will carry on using when home. Visiting Deaf Mission (Deaf club) for International Deaf awareness week had me in most of the Filipinos photos. We were seen as celebrities. One, we wouldn't do if they came to our country. They do value people that have come into their lives. At the end of October we visited the cemetery as Filipinos celebrate All Saints Day. It was like Glastonbury but with candles. Celebrating the Dead isn't so sombre as its about love, unity and family. Beautiful.