Meet the Team - Kevin Breen

Initial Thoughts:
I was really looking for a different experience this summer and Project Zambia ticked all the boxes. Being able to combine working with kids and coaching sport, with simply being able to go to Africa was perfect. I didn’t really have a clue what I would be doing, but I wasn’t worried about it and wanted to come with an open mind and get a wake up call from my comfortable life.

Impressions of Lusaka/Zambia:
My impression of Lusaka was very different to what I had imagined. I expected more thatched huts and rural, traditional Africa like you see in the pictures. I think it’s much more developed than I thought, more commercialised. I have loved every minute out here!! Everyone I’ve met has been great and so welcoming. The enthusiasm is just contagious. Someone said we might experience a mixed reaction from the public out here, but I haven’t had any negative experiences at all. I feel like I've been treated like a celebrity, greeted with 'muzungu, muzungu everywhere I go'.

Impressions of the Value of the Project:
I think the project is hugely worthwhile, to Sport In Action, the schools and definitely ourselves. Sometimes you consider the long term impact we’re making out here, and it is hard to judge. I really hope that the HIV lessons I have done will stay with the kids and may help them in the future, but all I know is the kids love to play sport and sing songs, and so as long as I do that and see the kids with a smile on their face I feel I am having a beneficial impact out here. I really do feel we as student gain as much from the experience as we give. The project makes you look at yourself and consider whats important to you. I think I have definately become more confident as the trip has gone on and will definately return to the UK with a different perspective on life. I think the rurals are a critical part of the project – it’s the real core of the project.

Impressions of the Team:
I’ve found living in the house great fun. There is big mix of personalities in the group which is great. In terms of SIA I love their enthusiasm when we go into the office – they really make you feel at home.