Just get in the van

Before my VALOR experience, I had never ventured beyond US soil. The very aspect that draws so many to the program initially made me apprehensive. We’re here to grow, right? So, I decided to embrace the opportunity, despite the initial stresses of packing and leaving home and work behind for two weeks. In the end, I simply got into the van.

This mantra, “just get in the van,” has since guided me whenever I confront situations outside my comfort zone. From Clay’s truck to airplanes, overland vehicles, and even a small Cessna, I surrendered to the experience, letting go of my nerves and immersing myself fully in the moment during this legendary journey in Kenya.

Almost immediately after landing, following a long day of travel, we were invited on a game drive. We eased into our journey with leisurely days of exploring, including a breathtaking flight over the Great Rift Valley and landing near Sosian Lodge on a grass airstrip, carefully dodging giraffes and elephants.

Kenya’s beauty is truly breathtaking. We were privileged to stay in remarkable lodges, in stark contrast to the humble villages we passed through. While a typical vacation in Kenya might focus on hospitality, landscapes, and wildlife, our more rural and off-the-beaten-path itinerary gave us a glimpse of the stark class divides within the country.

Throughout our travels, we frequently heard the phrase, “labor is so cheap here.” Each time, those words resonated differently. In some contexts, it implied a disregard for human value, where manual tasks still prevailed due to inexpensive labor. Yet, in other instances, it reflected efforts by larger operations to support communities by providing jobs, housing, water, solar power, and even livestock like goats for sustenance.

Agriculture in Kenya is diverse and focused on sustainability, making the best use of their natural resources. From cover and rotational crops to innovative, natural wastewater systems, sustainable farming is making waves across the country.

From the horrific fascination with the black soldier fly to seeing coffee, tea, and macadamia nuts standing in fields for the first time, I will never forget this experience with my classmates. Take it from me, just get in the van. I can’t imagine what I would have missed out on if I hadn’t fully given myself over to the experience!