Flora Henry was an Ansford student who went on a Zambia Exchange in 2011

During lockdown I have had a lot of time to think about how lucky I’ve been to travel. As I reflect on the lack of ability to do so at the moment, I feel more grateful than even to have experienced such diverse and wonderful cultures. And to have been be able to travel so freely and wholly. It was my trip to Zambia with the CMCPT in 2011 that triggered my curiosity to learn more about other cultures. In fact, not just learn about them but live them. My time in Zambia has influenced my life in terms of cultural curiosity; the gain individuals get from cultural exchange programmes is immeasurable. Two years ago my brother spent three months in Zambia during his gap year. It was an experience he says has shaped how he sees the world and his sense of self. Eye opening, liberating, precious memories. Hopefully when the pandemic is over these programmes can continue. For now we must harness the power of social media and technology to maintain these invaluable relationships.