EDGE Zimbabwe

Some of Shawnigan's most socially-conscious students are describing life-changing experiences as they prepare to return to school.

The EDGE Zimbabwe 2018 team departed shortly after Closing Day, spending one day in Paris en route to their three-week African adventure.

The trip began in earnest in central Zimbabwe's Antelope Park, where the group helped fix a walking bridge and visited a classroom for young children with special needs. After helping cook a meal for homeless kids in Gweru, the EDGE team had the opportunity to mix with locals, sharing stories and competing on the community soccer fields.

In Bulawayo, the team spent two emotional days at the St. Francis Home for mentally and physically disadvantaged children. In Hwange National Park, they saw more indigenous wildlife, much of it mere meters from the cabins they slept in. In Mlibizi, they saw firsthand the contributions made by previous Shawnigan groups, and continued to build structures and housing for the Mankobole primary school. At Victoria Falls, they witnessed one of the world's most famous landmarks, and enjoyed a 70-meter free fall on the world's largest gorge swing.

In sum, the EDGE Zimbabwe 2018 team travelled in modern airplanes, rickety boats, and open-air buses, witnessing poverty and privilege, urban centres and untamed wilderness. They took part in the preparation of traditional meals, and worked alongside locals in schools, orphanages, and wildlife refuges.

"I'm just so happy with the way our kids responded to the challenges of this unique experience," says Vikki Agate, who led the trip alongside colleague Andi Conroy. "They exceeded our expectations in every way, and we're excited to see how they'll share their growth with their peers in the fall."

As with many of Shawnigan's previous EDGE teams, students this year were struck by how happy the locals they encountered seemed, and how grateful and giving even those living in poverty can be.

"It's hard to explain the impact that Shawnigan teams have had on these communities," says Ms. Agate. "It's also gratifying for all of us to see that impact for ourselves," she adds. "It really underscores the value of hand-ups rather than hand-outs."

The 14 members of EDGE Zimbabwe 2018 were first named in October, 2017 and spent the winter fundraising for the trip. Find more about their adventures, including photos and firsthand accounts from the students themselves, by visiting the SLS EDGE tours blog.