Malawi and Zambia

When most people think of travel, they picture sightseeing, beaches, or exploring vibrant cities. But every so often, travel takes on a deeper meaning — one rooted in connection, purpose, and perspective.

I recently had the incredible opportunity to experience this firsthand when I joined my parents on a trip to Malawi, where they were working with the Malawi Children’s Mission to build a home for a family in need. They invited me along, and it became one of the most meaningful journeys of my life.

We stayed at the home of the project organizers, not far from the village where we’d be building. The goal? To construct a small brick home for a family of nine children — from the ground up, in just a week.

With the help of a local contractor and guide, we began the work: setting the foundation lines with string, mixing concrete and clay by hand, and laying bricks one by one. What made it even more special was that the bricks we used were made right there in the village — formed from local clay and sun-dried with care by the community.

Every day, we were surrounded by curious and joyful local children who watched our progress and cheered us on. The village itself sat close to the shores of Lake Malawi, and we often saw fishermen heading out early in the morning and returning at sunset. The generosity of the community was humbling — we were regularly gifted fresh fish and local dishes for lunch, often prepared by the families we were there to support.

The entire experience was incredibly eye-opening. It offered an authentic glimpse into life in rural Malawi — a life filled with challenges, but also with resilience, warmth, and a strong sense of community.

Traveling for a cause like this reminded me that the most impactful journeys aren’t always about where you go, but how you show up — and who you meet along the way.
If you’re ever seeking a travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary — one that combines adventure with heart — I can’t recommend it enough. There's something truly powerful about contributing to a place, even in a small way, and walking away having gained more than you gave.