Oliver’s Raleigh Story: A Journey from Tanzania to the Falkland Islands

Oliver joined a Raleigh Expedition to Tanzania in 2016 after graduating from university. Rather than diving straight into a career, he was seeking adventure and an opportunity to make a difference in communities around the world, which led him to Raleigh International.  

What Oliver could not have predicted was just how profoundly the experience would shape his personal and professional journey. His time in Tanzania not only offered him the chance to support vital projects but also equipped him with the confidence, skills, and connections that would prove invaluable in his future career as a Media Professional in the Falkland Islands. 

This is Oliver’s story!

On Joining a Raleigh Expedition 

“I had just finished my first degree in Geology and Earth Sciences. Rather than go straight into work, I wanted to travel a bit and help people. The opportunity to go to Tanzania came up, and it was incredible. Not only did I get to visit Tanzania, but I was also part of a water, sanitation, and hygiene project. It was an eye-opener for me because you take washing hands for granted. Teaching kids and community members how to wash their hands on World Toilet Day was a huge eye-opener.” 

Making an Impact on Local Communities  

“We were tasked with building toilets for the school, which was a big project. We also painted a mural with the school kids. Another part of the work was educating the community on topics like how to wash hands.  

We organized awareness days, like sporting events, which were a big part of the project. Additionally, there was a focus on women’s empowerment. We had women’s groups, which was really good, providing women in the community a safe space to talk to each other and address issues. That was great to see.”

Read: What to Expect on a Raleigh Expedition in Borneo 2025

Most Memorable Moment 

“One fun memory was when we played a football game against the local team. It was incredible. I scored a penalty, and everyone was cheering. It was surreal. All the kids were giving me high fives as I ran along. I felt like a proper football star! That was definitely an incredible moment, even though I’m not a football star, and it’s probably the closest I’ll ever get to feeling like one.” 

Another big moment was when we finished the mural at the school. All the kids were really excited, and we had this moment of accomplishment where everyone shook hands and said, “Good job.” We knew we’d helped build something that would hopefully be part of the school for generations.” 

Regaining a Passion for Journalism and Media 

“Part of the community project involved filming, and that’s when I realised, ‘This is what I love to do.’ I knew then that media and journalism were what I wanted to pursue. It gave me the confidence to go after it.” 

I’ve always wanted to combine media with travel. I saw a great opportunity, applied, and got the role as a Broadcast Journalist in the Falkland Islands. One day you’re interviewing the Governor, the next day a business leader, and then a conservationist about flowers. The variety is amazing. 

I’ve been here for four years now, and I love it. I’ve been fortunate to represent the Falklands, even acting as the media person for the Commonwealth Games. There are plenty of opportunities here. We also have the Island Games, where small islands compete, and I even won a silver medal in bowling — something I’d never played until I got here! 

Raleigh helped me a lot. It was one of those moments where I realized, yes, this media aspect is for me. I love telling other people’s stories and sharing their passions. It also opened up my horizons, helping me step out of the bubble and become more open-minded. Raleigh gave me the confidence to move abroad to another remote place, so I’m very grateful.” 

Read: How Raleigh Can Help You Transform Your Career Path

One of the Best Aspects of Raleigh 

“It felt like a massive collaboration, with a big effort from not just us, the Venturers, but from the local community as well. We made some really close friends, and it was great to share ideas and different viewpoints. That moment when someone used the toilet block for the first time, and it was actually functional, was incredible. It sounds simple, but in that moment, you think, ‘Wow, in these three months, we’ve really made a difference.’” 

Read: Disconnect to Reconnect: Focus on What Really Matters with Raleigh 

To a Young Person Considering Going on a Raleigh Expedition 

“I would definitely say – and I know this sounds cliché – just do it. Even if you’re unsure or don’t end up going on an Expedition, just make an inquiry to see if it’s for you. If you let the opportunity pass by, you’ll always wonder how it could have changed your life or career. The fundraising can seem daunting at first, but once you have a story to tell and people to help you out, it gets easier. So, take the first step, make an inquiry, and see if it’s right for you.” 

Read more Raleigh International Alumni Stories.