Maaike Ruiterkamp

Since December 2013 CooP-Africa has a new volunteer: Maaike Ruiterkamp. Maaike introduces herself:

Jambo! I’m Maaike Ruiterkamp, a new and enthusiastic volunteer for CooP-Africa. I recently graduated as a health scientist, but in addition I also have a passion for Africa and development cooperation. In April 2012 I made my first trip to Kenya and that was not my last. I stayed in Kisumu several times to volunteer and study. During these trips, I also learned about the work of CooP-Africa.

Why CooP-Africa? My experiences in Africa made me realize that all development work is well intentioned, the people behind it are committed with passion and commitment to their fellow man. Still, I realized that some projects have a deeper, more lasting effect than others. So I was especially excited by organizations promoting African individuals to utilise their own capacities in stead of holding up their hands. CooP-Africa is one of those organizations that help people getting started on own capacities and stimulating entrepreneurship and self-reliance. When I got the opportunity to volunteer for CooP-Africa I didn’t hesitate for a moment. An organization that does such good work, I would like to help.

I hope that together we can raise a lot of money in 2014, and increase our brand awareness in order to continue to carry out and expand the good work of CooP-Africa, because a bicycle realy does make a difference.