“'The Encouragement House has taught me that we can all be happy as long as you focus on what you do have. The students displayed this great value daily as they were grateful for what they did have, which I found really inspiring...'”

Georgie, Geelong2024

“'This has changed me and made me realise how lucky I am and has opened my eyes alot. I will definitely look at my problems from a different point of view now.'”

Zara, Geelong2024

“'Connecting with the students at Encouragement House impacted me and also put things into perspective.... It was honestly one of the best things I've done in my life, thankyou.'”

Campbell, Geelong2024

“'When we were at Encouragement House I quickly learnt I was privileged and learnt the hardship people have been through, although they were the most grateful, kind people I have ever met. So the most important thing I experienced was my mindset on life and how I need to start being kinder and more grateful for things.'”

Eve, Geelong2024

“Personally, the change in my perspective towards culture, voluntourism and unity of society has been greatly influenced by this trip. East Timor has been extremely significant to my understanding of sustainable development and re-establishing a developing country. This trip allowed me to be critical of issues affecting such countries and apply my knowledge practically. I have changed the way I perceive voluntary trips, the representation of culture and I can appreciate as well as help solve globally-concerning problems.”

Varsha Krithivasan, 17 years oldUN Youth Australia 2017

“I’ve learned that traveling to pretty places and sightseeing is a pretty meaningless experience. I would rather physically and emotionally get involved in the community. The important thing I learnt is about living in the authentic world.”

Max, 16 years oldDestination Dreaming 2017

“This project has taught me the power of connecting with communities, and I have acquired the confidence to head back to my own community with an open heart, willingness and desire to connect with others.”

Queensland University of Technology student

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