There are moments that stay with you long after they’ve passed. Moments that feel bigger than the space they happen in. Our trip to Germany was filled with many of these moments.
Traveling from Cape Town with Janna and Noks was Aya, who started yoga with Earthchild Project at just 6 years old and now, at 16, is a Young Leader in our programme. This trip was an opportunity for her to travel for the first time, experience a new country, and be part of sharing our work on an international stage.
But what made this journey so very special was the people.
From the very first event, hosted by Sinah Diepold and her community, there was a sense of warmth and openness. People showed up not just to attend, but to connect.
At YogaLoft in Munich, Aya had an opportunity to lead a guided meditation during Schalk’s Ubuntu Flow class.
Then there was Laura Seiler’s 10 year celebration event at the Olympic Stadium. Seeing Janna, Noks and Aya step onto a stage in front of 8000 people to share about our work was an experience we’ll never forget!
We were also part of the Cosmic Cine Film Festival, where Devardo’s story was shared on the biggest cinema screen in Munich. Another powerful moment, seeing the story of our earthchildren reach new audiences.
Later, in Essen, we visited our partners at Nevermined. It was wonderful getting to meet their whole team in person, and fascinating to have a tour of their lab grown sustainable diamond production facilities.
There were quieter moments, too. Conversations over meals. Walks through the city. Time spent connecting with our existing partners and also meeting so many new wonderful people.
This trip opened us to a community of people who care deeply about the work we are doing with children in South Africa, and about creating positive change. We left feeling incredibly held and supported and affirmed. From Earthchild eV team members, to our ambassadors, event organisers and partners, to every individual who connected with us or made a donation, we are deeply grateful.
For Aya, trip is an experience that will change her life forever. For us, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter of renewed passion and commitment to this work.
