Written by CFK Africa Peacock Fellow, Anoushka Das. Reposted from the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health: https://tarheels.live/globalhealth/2025/08/15/wrapping-up-my-kenyan-practicum-lifelong-bonds-new-lessons/
Reflecting on My Time with CFK Africa
My journey with CFK Africa in Kenya has truly been transformative. Stepping out of my comfort zone for my first solo international trip and my first visit to Africa opened a world of growth I never expected. Highlights included my first safari in the Masai Mara Reserve, joining a Masai village for their traditional dance, and performing in my first international dance show. Yet, beyond these milestones, what made this experience extraordinary was how warmly CFK staff welcomed me. Over time, our connections deepened beyond professional boundaries, by the end it genuinely felt as though I’d found a family in Kenya.
Lessons Learned – Public Health, Patience, and People
Kenya taught me the power of patience. Navigating a new culture, especially within cross-cultural teams, reminded me that expertise isn’t instantaneous and learning never ends. Some days brought communication challenges, but embracing patience helped me adapt and built more meaningful connections.
Impactful Moments and Farewells
As my practicum wrapped up, the bonds I’d built truly hit home. We shared both laughter and tears, evidence of how my colleagues had become not just coworkers, but dear friends. One staff member, in particular, became like a sister, guiding me through Kibera’s realities and offering a safe space for any conversation. Saying goodbye was difficult, but knowing our collaboration will continue remotely through the Gillings Humanitarian Health Initiative brings comfort.
Community Resilience in Kibera
Living and working in Kenya revealed the immense strength and resilience of communities in Kibera. Despite economic hardships, people consistently showed a spirit of mutual support – helping one another, finding joy in small things, and creating powerful networks of care. Such resilience was especially visible when talking to beneficiaries and partners in the Girls Empowerment Program, who shared inspiring testimonies of how CFK’s work was changing lives.
Cultural Insights and Growth
Participating in a traditional Masai dance, connecting with local people, and sharing daily life affirmed my appreciation for Kenyan culture. While my overall perceptions didn’t shift dramatically, witnessing the community’s resilience and warmth up close made me proud to be a part of public health initiatives that are truly felt and valued.
Personal Growth and Looking Ahead
This practicum nudged me to be more independent and resourceful, both personally and professionally. I became more confident navigating new spaces alone and developed stronger skills in cross-cultural communication. The friendships and bonds I formed are what I’ll miss most. These relationships are, without doubt, unbreakable.
Studying global health, I look forward to applying everything I’ve learned at CFK Africa as I continue my journey. I’m eager to work across cultures and would gladly return to Kenya or explore new regions, knowing now just how much is possible when you say “yes” to opportunity.
Words for Future Practicum Students and the CFK Community
For those embarking on similar journeys: keep an open mind, be patient, and embrace every opportunity. There is no telling what doors will open, or what memories you’ll make. My heartfelt thanks go to the CFK Africa team and my mentors, for their unwavering support and truly making Kenya feel like home.
The people I met, the genuine connections we created, and the shared stories will stay with me long after I’ve left. Kenya and CFK Africa have become a second family – a bond I will always cherish.
