Testimonial

Julian Rodemann: I took part in the weltwärts programme in 2012/13, when I visited South Africa with the German-South African Youth Association (DSJW). I helped pupils at the Botlhale Intermediate School in Letlhakane near Johannesburg with their homework, gave computer lessons and coached the local football team.

Julian Rodemann: To be honest, I expected life in the village to be a lot simpler and more traditional. During the course of the year, I realised that Western culture is omnipresent, even in really remote areas like Letlhakane. The locals look to the country's rich – still predominantly white – population for their influences, from American hip hop to Italian-brand clothing.

Julian Rodemann: I take cold showers now. In Letlhakane we had no running water and washed outside using cold water from the tank. I still wash in cold water to this day.

Julian Rodemann: I have been working for online magazine Journafrica.de for a year now. The magazine doesn't only focus on the country's crises and catastrophes, but rather aims to convey a nuanced image of Africa. We work very closely with a network of local correspondents and African journalists in the field. Our long-term aim is to ensure reporting on Africa that is diverse, nuanced, and reflects the reality there.

Food is an important part of school, but unfortunately it's often the only reason that parents send their children there. The sad reality is that for many children it is the only meal of the day.