Could you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m Eyiwumi Esther Eyitayo, a graduate of Mass Communication from Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo. I’m a writer, a blogger and an inspirational speaker.
Why did you choose to volunteer with HSKi?
I got to know about HSKi in February 2020, when I met Ma Funmi, the ED of HSKi at a program where she shared her story and her journey so far with the organization. I love what I heard that day and I love how passionate and committed she is to what she is. All she said sounded like what I’ve always loved to do. I saw Ma Funmi as a forerunner and I chose to follow her because I’ve learnt to serve those who are ahead in whatever I’ll love to do or become. I volunteered with HSKi in March 2021 and I was there for over a month. It was one of the best experiences of my life.
What was your first cultural shock?
My first cultural shock was entering “Koro Afoju”, the colony of the blind, which is one of the major communities that HSKi oversees. I’ve never seen a community like that all my life and I was shocked at how HSKi found and got to know about such a community.
What was your best moment with the kids/their mothers and The Joseph Tribe-TJT?
My best moments with the kids were the moments we shared in class; their willingness to learn is so soothing. They are fearless when it comes to asking questions about things they don’t know and they are even bold to speak the wrong English and wait for you to correct them.
My best moment with the mothers is the joy on their faces each time they come to school to see their kids and how grateful they are for all HSKi represents to them and their children.
My best moment in TJT was my first day at Borstal. That was my first time at a juvenile remand home. I love what TJT shares with the boys, it’s so obvious the love is mutual. You can just see the connection, and from that day onwards, God knows how I always look forward to Saturdays.
What would you like the world to know about HSKi?
HSKi is a major powerful force among all NGOs all over the world. HSKi is like a tree with many branches, its influence cut across many areas; helping many (volunteers and staff inclusive) walk the right path in this confused world and also leading many to the Dream Giver to get their life purposes. Another thing that is so profound about the organization is that they aren’t just touching the lives of street kids and their mothers but also, of young teens who found themselves in Remand homes because of peer pressure and other reasons. No one who has ever come in contact with the organization has ever been the same. HSKi is an amazing organization everyone would love to identify with and the ED is a power woman whose impact is an inspiration to many of us.
