Thank you for submitting your Mission Trip Application! See below for Mission Trip FAQ's.
If you don't see the information you need below, please feel free to contact us at info@managersonamission.org
Application FAQsWhat if I am not sure the dates will work for me?
Still apply! Submitting your application does not mean you are 100% committed to the trip. MOAM understands other opportunities could arise after you apply, and does not require a final commitment until after we extend invites to those selected. What if I might be offered and internship or job this summer?
Still apply! Submitting your application does not mean you are 100% committed to the trip. MOAM understands other opportunities could arise after you apply, and does not require a final commitment until after we extend invites to those selected. What if I my parents are not too sure about me going?
First off - till apply. You can always say no if selected. Second - relax, it's very common. MOAM greatly respects their concerns here. Rafiki and MOAM take the safety of missionaries very seriously. Each group travels together from arrival to departure while in Africa. The Villages are very safe with clean, safe drinking water and food. Rafiki Overseas Staff (ROS) accompany our MOAM group any time we leave the Rafiki Village. "The safest place to be is in the center of God's will". Rafiki is not a high-profile target for thieves or terrorists by any means. There are danger like terrorist attacks at the Brussels airport, etc. There is not much one can do about that - the same thing could happen in Boston or San Bernardino. Again, we completely understand the concerns. It is very common for parents of short term missionaries to prefer to connect on the phone with MOAM, or Rafiki's Home Office to talk through questions and concerns so please do not hesitate to contact us. Some of the best post trip testimonials have come from the parents after their son or daughter completes the trip. Basic Information FAQsWhat is the weather like?
It depends on what time of year you go and to which region you go. You should be able to look up the country you are traveling to and see the weather for that particular time of year. What I should I wear?
There are guidelines provided by Rafiki and if you follow those, you should generally be fine. They will be given out during the training session. In general, males wear t-shirts/collared shirts and long pants. Females should wear shirts with sleeves and skirts past the knee. However, ladies should bring some athletic gear/sweats. (May be allowed depending upon the village) Helpful Items?
Helpful items to bring that you probably wouldn’t think of… - Shower shoes - Blanket - Watch - Water bottle - Card games for the evenings Where will I stay?
Each Rafiki village has a guest house where you will stay. You will have a bedroom/bathroom for every 2 people and a kitchen/living room area. There is a washer/dryer also. Will towels and sheets be provided?
Yes. Both are provided in the guest house. What will I eat?
You will have breakfast on your own in the guest house. Lunch and dinner will be shared with the Rafiki kids and their mamas. During school days, you will sit with a group of children at their lunchtime. During GAMES and all dinners, you will rotate sitting with different cottage families. The food consists of the staples of the country. Expect some sort of maize (type of corn) porridge, beans, some beef, and green vegetables. Village Information FAQsWhat is an ROS?
ROS are Rafiki Overseas Staff that live in each village. Are there any cultural concerns I should know about?
Generally, the people in the cities/villages do not like to be photographed. The kids at Rafiki usually do not mind and will probably even be excited about it. When in public, taking photos with objects as the main focus and people in the background is the best approach. Also, per request of the Rafiki staff, do not let the children use your camera/phones as it provides an opportunity for an awkward situation if something should be damaged. People in the cities are generally friendly and will speak to you or smile. When in the markets, it is usually the norm to bargain. However, keep in mind that the goal is not to take advantage and get things for an unfair price. It is a good idea to have an ROS/Staff member help you with this in the beginning. When eating outside of the village, if there is any question about the safety of the food, consult an ROS. They should be aware of any special concerns. Is the village safe?
The village is fenced in and gated. There are guards 24 hours a day monitoring the incoming/outgoing of people. They also walk the fence perimeters at night to ensure the safety of the village. What should I expect from the people in the Rafiki village?
The kids are incredibly polite and well behaved compared to what you may be used to. They will treat you with the utmost respect and will address you as Auntie_____ or Uncle ________. When you address the mamas, you can call them Madame ______ or Mama _______. (They will usually let you know if they have a preference) The mamas want to be included as well, so be sure to include them in the games/sports. You would be surprised at how much they enjoy it! How should I act around the kids?
You should remember that many of the kids will have high expectations for you. They will watch your every move and hear your every word. Be mindful that you are a role model for them and representing MOAM. Being a strong spiritual leader that is fun to be around is a good balance. What should I do if the kids are misbehaving properly during a sports session?
ROS staff would be the person to discipline the child if there is a persistent problem. However, if it is just something minor, a warning or a time out from the sport/game is the best approach. The ROS appreciate it when you do not let the kids get by with inappropriate behavior because the goal is to teach them respect and discipline. What does a typical day look like at Rafiki?
Each day begins early, usually with a devotion. Throughout the day, you will help with GAMES and other various tasks as requested by ROS. Dinner is early by American standards and soon after dinner, everyone settles in. This is the time in which you will be able to bond with the other missionaries. |
Language FAQsDo I need to be proficient in a language to be eligible for selection?
You do not need to be proficient in any additional languages in order to be eligible for selection. Is there a language barrier?
The kids and staff all speak English. However, sometimes you may have to ask them to repeat things as their accent makes it difficult to understand. On the other hand, they may ask you to repeat things as well for the same reason. It is best to speak slowly and avoid slang terms so that they can understand. The kids will ask you tons of questions because they are very interested in you and your life at home. Keep in mind, they will remember almost everything you tell them, even if you don’t remember telling them! Trip Information FAQsDo I have to buy a plane ticket?
No. MOAM works with Rafiki to purchase plane tickets for everyone. Will I have to fly alone?
You may have to fly alone from your home airport to an international airport, but MOAM is almost always able to arrange for groups to fly together for their final flight to Africa. How long is the flight?
The length of the flight depends on the destination. Most will be between 12-18 hours for the longest one. How hard is it to adjust to the time difference?
It is difficult but definitely doable. Former MOAM Missionaries have recommending going ahead with whatever is going on when you arrive. For instance, if it is evening, go ahead to bed and rise in the morning even if it is difficult. If you arrive at lunchtime, go ahead with the day until it is time for bed. Taking a nap or going to bed in the middle of the day may seem like a great idea when you are exhausted from traveling, but it may not pay off in the long run. The airlines are also helpful in adjustment because they operate on the time zone of the destination. Will towels and sheets be provided?
Yes. Both are provided in the guest house. Can I talk with someone who has gone before?
Of course! MOAMs recent mini missionaries would be happy to connect, share their experiences, and answer any questions you may have! Please just email MOAM at info@managersonamission.org to make arrangements. Other FAQsWill I need converters/adapters for electronic
items? You will need adapters for electronics because the outlets are shaped differently. Converters are only needed for items that do not adjust to differences in power. Cell phones, laptops, tablets, etc. usually do, but check before you leave to be sure. If they do not, you will need a converter as well. Items such as hair dryers, curling irons, cameras, etc. will more than likely need a converter as well. What is the history of MOAM, what is its mission?
Visit http://www.managersonamission.org/about-us.html for more information. What is the history of Rafiki, what is its mission?
Visit http://www.rafikifoundation.org/AboutUs/history.aspx for more information. How much money should I bring?
The only money you will need on this trip is to cover any airport meals, snacks, souvenirs or any other items you would like to purchase. All meals are covered by MOAM while in Africa. Can I leave the kids clothes?
If you are interested in leaving clothes for the children upon your departure, check with the ROS and they will direct you in how to do so. What immunizations are we required to have?
The only immunizations required are those designated by Rafiki, but typically include Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and an adult polio booster if you have not had one. These will vary depending on country, and be communicated as soon as selections are made. Can you bring the kids gifts?
You can certainly donate items, but it is best to work with Rafiki and MOAM to arrange distribution of the items. |