A Day of Creativity and Community: My Visit to the AFE School in Senegal

Written by a fellow volunteer at AFE

Yesterday, I had the privilege of experiencing a special day at one of the schools founded by AFE. Located in the heart of the community, the school radiates energy and creativity.

Upon reaching the top floor, I was welcomed into the classrooms dedicated to teaching embroidery. This meditative craft allows students to develop their creative skills and offers them oppurtunities to pursue a skilled and valuable trade here in Senegal. The students proudly showcased their works, all of which showed tremendous skill, but that was just the start of a unique experience.

Cooking class: A Masterclass in Team Spirit

During my tour, I was invited to observe a class where students were making crêpes – an offer I couldn’t resist!

It was warming to see everyone taking turns and enjoying the process. Teamwork, which was at the heart of everything, echoes the spirit of the association, and indeed the wider community of Pikine. Here, everyone lives and breathes community, and people are always ready to lend a helping hand, and are eager to improve Pikine for future generations.

The atmosphere was lively and full of laughter; even the school’s director joined in to be part of the moment. Different pans and spatulas were tested as everyone got a chance to try their hand. The joy of working together was infectious, and the aroma of freshly made crêpes filled the room.

While the crêpes were being made, another group worked on preparing mini pizzas. Once again, teamwork was key – every task was approached with care and enthusiasm. Learning these cooking skills means that students can not only cook delicous food for family and friends – they can also develop their knowledge in home grown produce, offering the possibility to start their own food businesses or work in other areas of the food sector in the future.

An Unforgettable Experience

This visit has given me a deep insight into the work of AFE and the importance of community. The students here are not just learning practical skills like sewing, cooking, or baking; they are also embracing values like teamwork, creativity, and mutual support. It was inspiring to see how everyone contributed and enjoyed the process.

This day reminded me of the incredible impact AFE’s work has on young lives – providing not just knowledge, but also a sense of purpose, confidence, and the tools to shape their future.