Over the past 10 years, there has been huge growth in the number of travel programs for Jewish young adults, focusing on everything from culture and tradition to tourism. Out of a personal desire to seek new challenges, I discovered The Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), and their young adult initiative, JDC Entwine who works to connect young Jews to the global Jewish community and foster a sense of global responsibility through their programs.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from my trip to Rwanda. It was difficult to see past the long list of shots I needed to get, and the upcoming 24 hours of travel to get to the country. I looked forward to seeing my sister, Lauren, who has been serving as a Global Jewish Service Corps Fellow with Agahozo Shalom Youth Village (ASYV), but wasn’t sure what to expect.

It was Thursday July 20th –the drum like sound of my alarm went off and the sun was shining through the hotel curtains. It was time to get ready and begin day four of the trip. I completed my morning routine and headed downstairs for breakfast with my roommate. Breakfast included homemade omelets, fresh fruits and veggies, and a plethora of other savory and sweet delights. After breakfast, our whole group hopped on the bus and headed to the Jewish Community Center in Tbilisi.