About a week ago, us ZamZags had the amazing opportunity to visit Chipego’s farm and help him transplant his cabbage and rape sprouts. Chipego, a man who attended classes last year and this year, has transformed the land outside his home into a beautifully fenced farm with multiple different types of veggies. Witnessing the growth of his crops we were transplanting was a powerful reminder of the potential for growth. This experience set the tone for the rest of my time in Zambezi, and showed the importance of growth and transformation in all aspects of life.
Coming on this trip, all of us had room to grow. Whether that be in conversational skills, living with others in a group setting, learning how to teach adults, living in an unfamiliar place, or so much more every single one of us had room for growth. In one of our classes leading up to this experience around February one of the questions Jeff asked as an icebreaker to the class is, “What is an area of yourself that you would like to work on while in Zambezi?” in the months leading up to this experience, I remember this question and constantly tried to think of a way to grow while in Zambezi. It wasn’t that I had a lack of idea ideas for where I wanted to grow, it was more that I had so many ideas for where I wanted to see myself grow that it was overwhelming.
Since in Zambezi, I have seen growth in all types of ways, from the growth of Chipego’s cabbage and rape sprouts, to the growth of every single member of the 2025 Zags in Zambezi. When thinking about this, I decided to ask everybody where they feel that they have seen growth in themselves throughout the trip. Although everybody had a different answer, one prevalent theme in the responses was that everybody feels that they have grown in their relationship-building skills, as well as becoming comfortable in the uncomfortable.
For those who have been reading the blog since the beginning, you may remember the “Gumby” analogy I shared. Well on trip such as this one it is so important to remain “Gumby” as that is when the true growth happens. Being flexible and open to new experiences allows us to adapt and learn from every situation we come across. This mindset has been extremely important in this journey, and has allowed us to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come our way.
Starting with the community, our English class group has seen remarkable growth in reading, writing, and speaking skills. Through experiences and projects planned by zags, members of the adult English class have become more confident in our ability to communicate in English. One of the highlights in my group was when one of my students, Richard, grew from not even knowing his letter sounds at the start of the class, to being able to write and read his life story. The audio recording below is Richard’s final recording of his life story, which both he and I were extremely proud of.
One of the most significant areas of growth for our group has been in feeling comfortable talking with locals. Initially, the language and cultural differences made it challenging to connect. However, through consistent interaction and a willingness to learn, we have built meaningful relationships with the Zambezi community. These connections have enriched our experience and provided valuable insights into their way of life. The ability to communicate and form bonds with locals has been a transformative experience and has given us a sense of belonging and understanding.
leadership discussion in Dipalata
Our journey of growth has also been seen through individual growth stories that reflect the diverse ways in which we have all evolved. Although I don’t have enough space to acknowledge the growth of all of the Zags, here are a few: Alea, along with several other group members, had never taught in a classroom setting to adults. Through this trip, they have grown into amazing teachers, adapting to the needs of their students and finding creative ways to teach them. Natalie acknowledges that she has become more comfortable with the unknown and with being vulnerable, which has allowed her to embrace new experiences and learn from them. Sloane says that she has learned that it’s okay to ask questions, even if they seem “dumb.” This mindset has helped her expand her knowledge while working in the hospital and exploring a new place.
Becca’s experience at the hospital, witnessing the impact of malaria on a young girl and her mother, put everything into perspective for her. She learned that hurt and joy can coexist. Cate has turned discomfort into something positive, such as her experience at Dipalata, embracing new experiences and finding joy in the unknown. Sean has discovered what “humanizing” someone looks and feels like, understanding that the world is far more beautifully complicated and human than most of us recognize. Mia has grown in her ability to navigate new environments and find comfort in the unfamiliar. Katy has learned when to lean in instead of pushing away or secluding herself, discovering that it’s okay to take time for herself. Sarah has gained the ability to create and hold conversations with adults, opening up new opportunities for her. Lucia has grown in her ability to adapt to new situations and find joy in the process.
As I mentioned, when Jeff asked, “What area of yourself would you like to work on while in Zambezi?” I had many ideas of how I planned to grow on this trip. I personally have discovered the importance of leaning into discomfort and finding growth in challenging situations. Additionally, I have learned how to teach to a class of 55 students when I had only ever taught around 30 at most. Which, trust me, was quite difficult. On a more serious note, this trip has allowed me to grow in a mental way. I have anxiety and a trip where I don’t know the plan, am in an unfamiliar place, and don’t know anyone was quite anxiety-inducing. Events such as traveling from the Lunda to Luvale side of the river caused me quite a bit of anxiety as I have always had a fear of boats (especially small ones). However, I pushed myself to get on the canoe and am happy I did. Additionally, since coming out last year, I had never traveled to a country that has clear anti-LGBTQ+ laws and was very nervous that I would be disliked by both the group and the Zambezi community. But, to my surprise the few Zambians that found out about my relationship while on this trip were curious rather than hateful.
As we reflect on our journey in Zambezi, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunities that have allowed us to grow and learn. We are excited to share our experiences and the lessons we have learned with you everyone at home. Thank you for being a part of our growth from the moment we committed to this trip to the moment we reunite! We can’t wait to see you soon! As Jeff said at our accompaniment dinner last night, we are all “sad to be leaving but happy to be going.”
To my Mama, Dada, and sister, thank you for all the support you have given me while on the trip as well as before leaving. I can’t wait to see you soon!
To my cousin Dakota, I hope you had an amazing graduation! I wish I could have been there! Grandma and your mom would have been so proud of you!
To Perry, I miss you so much and can’t wait to see you soon! I hope you have had so much fun in Chimfunchi and I can’t wait to compare experiences! I love you!
See you soon!
Carly Fassio – Class of 2027
Gonzaga School of Education
Such an amazing experience for all of you! Can’t wait to see you Carly. So glad that the group was able to take this adventure.
Dan “Dada” Fassio
Carly – Thank you for post. Without fail, whenever I read the blog posts I cry. You are all doing an amazing job painting a picture of what life has been like these past several weeks. I feel like I’ve gotten to know you all and am so impressed by your willingness to embrace your fears so that you can expand your world. It’s been truly inspiring to me.
Natalie – I can’t wait to give you a big hug and snuggle – only 2 more days!! I love you!!
Wonderful to hear Richard’s voice and story! Thank you, Carly, for sharing this and for your beautiful reflection! So proud of you all! Wishing you safe travels! Cate, we can’t wait to see your face!
Carly,
Thank you for this post! I remember being tough on myself for not being curious enough or not saying yes to everything, but your words reminded me that I made growth during my trip, whether they were big or small. I’m so glad that all of you have grown in some way and that you’ll take these lessons with you wherever you go. You all have been an inspiration to me and have reminded me of the amazing memories and lessons from Zambezi. Safe travels!
-Ellie Powers, ZamFam ‘24
Wow! What an amazing life changing experience you are all sharing. I appreciate your intentionality with reflecting on Jeff’s question – “what area of yourself would you like to work on while you’re in Zambezi?” Thank you sharing in such a vulnerable and open way and for giving space for your teammates to reflect. I am touched by a thread of learning to be comfortable in the unfamiliar. That’s huge and will serve you all so well. My hope and prayer for you in the days ahead as you journey home is that you will intentionally find space to continue to reflect on all the ways your hearts and minds have been opened.
You are such a brave, courageous group and you’re giving me so much hope for our world’s future as we navigate these dark times.
P.S. I’m 78 and I’m still learning to be comfortable in the uncomfortable … the journey continues. Blessings to each of you – with gratitude for sharing your heartwarming experience. BRAVO!
Safe travels!
Mia’s very proud Grandpa (Choppy)
Oh, Carly, my dear sweet Carly Sunshine, what can I say except that I am filled with love for you and with joy and excitement for this experience in your life. Richard’s story spoken in beautiful English is a testament to what can be accomplished with patience, practice and love from teacher and student. Your anxious feelings of 55 pairs of eyes counting on you for a class, getting into a little canoe that I KNOW must have been terrifying for you, being honest about who you are… all and much more I’m sure have sent you to the edge of your comfort zone. But you and all the ZamFam are understanding that life and learning begins at the edge of your comfort zone. You have been gifts to your new Zambian friends as they have been gifts to you. There will be bittersweet tears and hugs as you leave, but we can’t wait to welcome you home. Safe travel home for all!
Carly’s Grammy
Hi Carly. Thank you for yet another glimpse at life in Zambezi. I loved hearing Richard’s story as well. Learning something new requires a vulnerability that I so admire.
Thank you to the entire Zag family for letting us be a part of your travels and experiences. Thank you for your willingness to so openly share challenges and celebrations along the way. Learning along with you all has been an unexpected blessing.
And now Taylor it’s time to come home! You know I’ll be following that flight path and counting the hours until you’re back. Safe travels sweet girl and I’ll see you soon!!!
These beautiful words of reflection really brought the tears today! I am so incredibly proud of you , Carly and this entire group of uniquely gifted, resilient, adaptive, intelligent, kind, and wise Zags! You all have grown in ways that will continue to unfold in the weeks, months, and years to come. Be gentle with yourselves as you “re-enter” life in the US. Experience has shown me that it will be jarring to come back to your lives of comfort and abundance at home. You will no doubt experience much sadness when you say goodbye to your new friends in Zambezi; a sadness that can only come from the deep relationships you have formed and the great love you have for this experience—-you have much to be grateful for!
Thank you Zags for the difference you have made in the lives of all you have met. Thank you for embracing change and for living outside your comfort zone and working for the benefit of others. You all have such big hearts!
Thank you for posting the video of Richard because it made me feel like I am there with you, like I know him! His perfect English and clear speaking voice are impressive! What an accomplishment for him (and you too Carly).
Catly, I can’t wait hug you in four days! Students, I wish you all safe travels home and sweet memories of a month well-lived!
Carly! It’s been three and a half weeks since your “Gumby” post on May 20th (which was such a great/memorable post — yay for your Grandma’s teachings!). I knew this trip would change you all. What I didn’t realize is how it would also impact those of us following your blog closely. One of the biggest ways (all) of your candid, thoughtful blog posts have grown me is in the way Katy has grown — wondering in a new way of when to “lean in instead of pushing away or secluding.” Becca’s new perspective of how joy and pain can co-exist is major. Learn that young and you’ve got lots of life figured out. Thank you for sharing Richard with us. So impressed with his clarity and pronunciations. English is a really difficult language to learn and teach — didn’t realize this until I taught it abroad in my 20s. Well done, teachers in Zambezi! Sharing in your students’ successes is a joy/sense of accomplishment that will accompany you throughout your worthy education careers. It never gets old.
And Carly, well done YOU for packing up your anxiety with you on this trip (whether you wanted it to go with you or not!) and teaching your anxiety how to *accompany you* in that tiny boat (toothpick tiny!) from the Lunda to Luvale sides. As you return home and move on from this experience, may you draw on that river-crossing example (and so many more from Zambezi) when anxiety tries to keep you from living more fully (as it does try to do). Lastly, Carly … HAPPY … DAMN … PRIDE!!!!!! I celebrate you living in your truth and its fullness. Parades are one thing — traveling to a country with anti-LGBTQ+ laws in your first year of being out is next-level courage (next level!). Such a brave and beautiful way to affirm yourself: your whole, integrated, growing self. (Take THAT, anxiety!) ️ Pride, indeed ️. xo
As this may be the last blog post before you board those bush planes and begin your long travels home, one last thank you to each and every one of you for sharing your experience(s) with us. One last thank you to Jeff, James, and Lucia for their guidance and presence with you all. Because of how you’ve shared, I can viscerally imagine your sad/full-of-gratitude last hugs and goodbyes with Mama Katendi and many you’ve come to know in Zambezi. As you say your kisu-kisu goodbyes, I’m thinking of the mutual-indebtedness you taught us about These will be big feels.
Like Lisa (Taylor’s mom) above, I’ll also be following your flight path home with one twist, Mia: I’m arriving Seattle a few hours before you to welcome you back and accompany you on the last leg of your return home to Oakland. You will be beyond tired and spent, I know. While I’ll sure be looking for Mia (and can not wait!), I hope to witness *each* of you return through those United States Customs doors. To say the least, over this past month, you’ve each turned me (many of us, I suspect) into huge fans of yours … rooting on each of you/your processes as you navigated this purposed, wild, brave journey. We’ve come to love you, Zags. Just as you’ve come to love those you leave behind in Zambezi. I promise it won’t be audible, but …. know as we see each of you former strangers arrive, our ❤️s will be singing so so loudly:
” Gonzaga … Gonzagaaaa … We Are Happy To See You Today.”
Blessed farewells. Safe + smooth travels, You did it, all. You did this. We love you.
11:23 AM in Oakland. 8:23 PM in Zambezi.
xoxo,
Elisa (Mia’s Mama)
1-2-3
Carly this was wonderful and I can really see especially through your writing how this trip has impacted you in lots of different ways. Talking about anxiety takes courage and handling it even more so and I believe that you are growing into a wonderful human being. By staying open to trying new things that make you uncomfortable is an amazing skill to have especially when traveling. I’m so incredibly proud of you and hearing about your experiences tell me that you took all the opportunities you could and to live in the moment. I cannot wait to see you and compare our experiences! See you soon I love you! Also Happy Pride month!❤️