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Samoan Immersion experience

On Friday 29 June, I flew to Samoa to begin my immersion with a group of young Australians representing the Caligero Project and the Salesians of Don Bosco.

We were warmly welcomed in Leauva’a by our homestay families and young people. Having the opportunity to stay with a Samoan family was a unique and very special experience.

Throughout the immersion we ran activities for the local youth which involved games and discussions. We were very fortunate to attend the ATS - the Samoan Youth Day, where Samoans from all over the South Pacific gathered for parades, talks, mass and Siva (Samoan cultural performances).

The highlight for me was visiting the Divine Mercy Primary School run by the Salesian Sisters in Malololelei. I felt extremely lucky to be given the opportunity to spend the day in the classroom teaching, as it gave me a taste of what a long-term experience might be like.

The money that the É«ÇéÖ±²¥ community raised from the BBQ in Term 2 was given to this school. Sister Carol (who is the Principal) was overwhelmed by our generosity and kindness. The stationary and sport donations went to a number of schools and colleges in Samoa.

Although my time in Samoa was only short, the impact that the Samoan people had on me will last a life time. I would encourage everyone to take up any opportunity that involves travel and learning about other cultures!

Miss Madelyn Carver - Year 1 teacher