By Jenny To – 1 week volunteer

I have always been keen on taking part in humanitarian projects and came across KSES online. It appeals to me because volunteers get to play a part in the conservation work of semi-wild elephants and learn more about the Karen hill tribe culture while teaching them ours. To me, this is the best of both worlds.

I was absolutely intrigued by the vibes of the village when we first arrived. It was a four-hour drive from Chiang Mai and we were all quite knackered from the journey already, but it was a privilege to be greeted by smiling villagers, village dogs and cats and, of course, the friendly KSES staff. Having lived in a densely populated and heavily polluted city like Hong Kong for so many years, I was longing for some tranquility and fresh air, so this is just the perfect getaway for me. Facilities in this village are basic, but everyone just looks so happy and content with what they have. My favourite part about staying at this village has to be spending time after hikes on the bench just outside our little hut in MooToo’s house.

In the afternoon, one of the women in the village, Nee took us to her corn fields. We helped with fertilising the crops. It was a strenuous hike up the hills, but we enjoyed the cheweys’ (dogs in Pakinyaw) company. I wasn’t entirely used to the humidity, heat and bugs, but this experience has made me appreciate the hard work that all farmers have been doing.

I absolutely enjoyed my stay at KSES and I hope to come back to visit the elephants, the villagers and the staff soon  Da-blu!
.