An unforgettable journey to India

As 14 intrepid travelers boarded the plane in Sydney in November last year, everyone was filled with equals parts nerves and excitement for the journey ahead. For many of the young people involved in the Small Steps, Big Journeys: Oasis to India philanthropic trip, this was their first adventure overseas.

From the delicious food to intense hustle and bustle of everyday life; the cows casually walking on the side of the road and xxx the entire team was enticed by India from day one. As the team caught up over their first dinner in New Dehli, one young person exclaimed, “this is the best day of my life!”

After a few days in Delhi it was time to move on to Chennai to spend time at two orphanages; MITRHA and Prema Vasam.  The group spent a week at both locations assisting with the feeding of the children, helping with homework and painting; as well as, taking the children out on some fun outings into town.

Within hours of being at MITHRA, everybody finally understood and were overwhelmed by the amazing and tireless Sisters who lived and worked at the orphanage. The three days flew by at MITHRA, and everyone was saddened to be leaving. Thankfully spirits were immediately lifted as they were welcomed with a wave of smiling faces at Prema Vasam.

“I cannot believe how amazing the children are here at Prema Vasam, the welcoming ceremony they gave us was really touching, I feel so lucky to spend time here”, one of the young people told staff after spending the first afternoon with the children.

Again their time flew by with day trips to the Zoo,  a Cinema and Prema Vasam’s Boys Home, with each day proving to be as special as the last.

Before heading home the team had a few days rest and fun in Goa – enjoying the beauty of the seaside town and again taking time to immerse themselves in the Indian culture.

As the group headed started their return journey time was taken to reflect upon the trip and the opportunities given to everyone involved. The general feeling of the trip was summed up perfectly by one of the young people, “I cannot wait to return to both of the orphanages. I didn’t realise that they would affect my life in such a positive way – I can now truly appreciate even the smallest things in life.”

Oasis would like to thank the support of all the donors for this trip, primarily Jan Tracy from Unique Journeys.