Diversity an experience for volunteer
He has done research on communities before moving to South Africa and says that his experience so far is nothing compared to what he read about the country.
Mert Temel moved from Germany to South Africa to do voluntary work in Kliptown and says he has never seen a community as diverse as Kliptown or a country like South Africa.
Having been in South Africa for two months of his one year visit, Temel has already learnt a lot.
“The multi-cultures, the gap between rich and poor and the history fascinates me,” he said.
He has done research on communities before moving to South Africa and says that his experience so far is nothing compared to what he read about the country.
“We don’t have slums like those in Kliptown but I am glad I’m experiencing this because I came here to make a difference,” Temel said.
He does voluntary work at the Kliptown Youth Programme where the centre offers computer training, a library and other services to the community.
Temel says South Africa has many countries in one. He expected the entire country to be similar to the living conditions of Kliptown but his visit to different areas revealed to him the gap between the rich and poor.
“Sandton, Kliptown, Eldorado Park and Lenasia are all very different.
“I have never seen anything like this,” Temel said.
In his spare time, Temel tries to understand the different lives of South Africans and feels comfortable because people are very welcoming he said.
He is committed to helping make the conditions of living better for residents of Kliptown.
“I did not fly here to be on holiday, I came here to experience the life of the Kliptown community so that I can help them where I can,” Temel said.
