Arusha, Tanzania 

Arusha is a city in Tanzania, a country in Africa. After achieving my big dream of owning a house, I felt I deserved a special gift for myself. I found an organization that specializes in volunteering travels and booked a trip to Arusha, Tanzania.

At first, my family was reluctant, but after checking the organization’s reputation and talking to the directors, they felt reassured. The directors were women, and 95% of the volunteers were girls, so it seemed safe.

I reached Arusha for my two-week trip, and it was a very beautiful experience. I even went on a safari.

On our first day, we had an orientation. They explained that we look different from the local people, which could make us easy targets for theft. They advised us never to go anywhere alone and to always stay in groups. Although Arusha is generally safe, petty theft is a common issue. They warned us that someone might try to steal our phones or belongings.

After the orientation, they told us to rest. I was exhausted from my flight—it had been a long journey. I fell asleep, and when I woke up, the house was empty except for a few cooks. Everyone else had gone to Simba House for registration with their IDs.

I felt confused and asked the ladies (who were called “mamas”) what I should do. They encouraged me to go to Simba House by myself. I felt nervous since, during the orientation, they had clearly told us not to go anywhere alone. The mamas assured me that it wasn’t very far—just a 5-minute walk. They gave me clear directions, and Mama Nema added, “If you feel lost, just ask anyone where Simba House is. People will help you since they know volunteers often go there.

I have a mindset of “better safe than sorry,” so when I left Twiga House for Simba House, I carried a large stone with me. It was about the size of a small football—easy to carry in one hand but still substantial.

While on my way, I ran into the directors. They were also heading to Simba House and asked me, “Chetna, are you going to Simba House for registration?” I said yes. They responded, “Okay, it’s just a 2-minute walk.” Since it was so close, even though they were in a car and I was walking, they didn’t offer me a ride.

I reached Simba House and dropped the stone by the door before entering. In the office, N and A, the directors, were waiting for me. They took a copy of my passport and gave me a form to fill out for registration.

As I was leaving the room, they asked, “Chetna, did you have a stone in your hand?” I replied, “Yes.” They looked astonished and asked, “Why?”

I explained, “You told us it’s not safe, so I thought it would be a good idea to carry a weapon for protection.” Hearing this, they jumped out of their seats. Nelly asked, “Chetna, were you planning to stone someone?”

I laughed and replied, “Of course not—only if someone tried to mug me.” They burst out laughing and exclaimed, “Oh my God, this girl is crazy and brave!”

I was unbothered but amused at my own quirky self.

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