Nestled near the breathtaking Mole National Park in Ghana is the humble yet vibrant Bambenninye Community School. More than just a place of learning, this school stands as a beacon of hope and progress for the local community. The Bambenninye Community Basic School thrives thanks to the dedicated efforts of Savannah Lodge, managed by the Salia brothers.
Savannah Lodge, also known as the Salia Brothers Guest House Annex, is the hub for Bambenninye Community Development Services (Bamdese). This remarkable local non-governmental organization focuses on community and rural development projects in the Northern Region of Ghana. Bamdese works tirelessly to educate and organize communities in Larabanga and nearby areas, building capacity and helping people rise out of poverty. They also run volunteer programs that welcome international volunteers to participate in their impactful projects, fostering a spirit of global collaboration and support.
In 2014, I embarked on a life-changing journey to Ghana, spending four transformative months volunteering at Bambenninye Community Basic School. This experience reshaped my understanding of humanity, solidarity, and so much more. I forged lifelong bonds with the wonderful people I met and fully immersed myself in the country’s rich culture.
Fast forward to February 2022, my return to Larabanga was incredibly special. It was a heartfelt reunion after years of staying in touch and collaborating with the school. This visit was particularly memorable as we also helped the community by renovating and painting Savannah Lodge, ensuring it continues to support and uplift the local area.
One of the most unforgettable parts of this journey was introducing PIXTOLEARN to the children of Bambenninye Community School. Swimming is not just a sport; it’s a vital life skill. For many children in Larabanga, swimming in a pool was a completely new experience. With limited access to swimming facilities, the children had never had the chance to learn or enjoy swimming. This is where PIXTOLEARN came into play.
During my stay, we arranged for a few children from the school to have swimming lessons at the Mole Park Hotel swimming pool. The excitement and curiosity in their eyes were palpable as they approached the pool.
The first day at the Mole Park Hotel swimming pool was filled with nervous giggles and hesitant steps into the water. However, with patience and encouragement, the children began to embrace the water. It was incredible to see their transformation. From tentative paddles to enthusiastic splashes, the children quickly grew more comfortable in the pool.
A memorable moment was watching the kids help each other, their faces lighting up with every small success. The sense of pride and teamwork was amazing to see. It wasn’t just about learning to swim; it was about gaining confidence and having a good time together.
Reflecting on the Experience
As I think back on my time in Larabanga and the days spent with the children of Bambenninye Community School, I feel very grateful. The experience reinforced my belief in the importance of initiatives like PIXTOLEARN SWIMMING. It showed that even in remote parts of the world, we can make a difference by giving children opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun.
Larabanga and the Bambenninye Community School hold a special place in my heart. The warmth of the community and the enthusiasm of the children continue to inspire me. As PIXTOLEARN continues to make waves around the world, I look forward to more enriching experiences, bringing the joy and essential skill of swimming to children everywhere.
A Successful Trial of PIXTOLEARN SWIMMING
The swimming lessons at Mole Park Hotel showed the success of PIXTOLEARN in different environments. It proved that with the right support and resources, children from all backgrounds can benefit from learning to swim. Our time in Larabanga wasn’t just about teaching aquatic skills and water safety; it was about creating joy, resilience, and community spirit.
