"I'll start by saying that São Tomé and Príncipe is a special country and that being a volunteer at the Child and Youth Foundation is a transforming experience. If you don't read anything else from here on I want you to at least retain this information! I would be proud of the simple decision to have embraced a challenge of this scale and to have the courage to do something outside the "conventional route". But looking back on this journey I am tremendously happy with what I have been able to do for these people and for this country. It is never enough... I wish I could have given as much as they gave me!  It was an extraordinary journey of learning and a complete change in the way I see the world. The important thing is clearly the people and São Tomé taught me that better than anywhere else. To be happy and genuine with so little, with difficulties in access to basic care such as water and light and with huge deficits in education, health and hygiene. During the period I lived in São Tomé I spent two months with the Fundação da Criança e da Juventude, performing several tasks in the association. From building a website, managing partnerships and sponsorships to school support for the kids and renovation work. The foundation plays a preponderant role in the lives of many children who find a home and conditions there that they would not have had otherwise. I believe in education as a pillar for development and that is where FCJ works primarily. I shudder to think of the moments of happiness and smiles of the children (and mine too). The best thing in life is to give without expecting anything in return. Only then can we be surprised by the human essence, by the kindness and honesty that people transmit with purely genuine gestures of love and care.  The world is full of opportunities and good people to meet. We must not be afraid of the unknown. The important thing is to do what the heart tells you.... In the end it will all be worth it!" José