Name: Tilly Gower, Midlands
Programme: Lion Rehabilitation Programme
Dates: 9 February - 23 March 2007

How did you feel before you joined the programme? I was really really nervous because I have never traveled alone before, but Real Gap were very informative and put up with me ringing at all hours of the day to double and triple check ridiculous things! What was the accommodation like? Amazing...volunteer rooms were awesome (possibly because my room mate has become a life long friend!) and the rooms on the Victoria Falls trip and at Hwange were all very comfortable. What did you think of the programme? My trip exceeded beyond belief all my expectations, the people, the lions, the atmosphere...everything was just a brand new and awesome world.

An amazing memory was taking a newly formed pride of lions out on their first night encounter together and being there to experience their first kill together under the incredible stars. A funny memory is Jabulani (The main lion handler) making me a grass skirt and wreath of flowers for my 'Barbie and Ken' leaving do! Needless to say I went as Hawaiian Barbie!

How have you benefited from your experience? I am so much more open-minded, and it may sound corny but I am so much happy in my own skin now. I have realised how much easier it is to be happy and how easy it is to meet people and get on with enjoying their company and sharing awesome experiences. What advice could you offer to someone considering this project? DO IT! AS SOON AS POSSIBLE FOR AS LONG AS YOU CAN AFFORD IT!