Melinda Marie Morgan was born and raised in Bay City, Michigan, USA. The 25-year-old attended the University of Michigan for five years and pursued a Degree in Health Science and Healthcare Administration. After graduating from university she interned at a Health Department while working part time and applying to join the Peace Corps.
Shortly after being accepted into the Peace Corps, a government organisation that sends Americans to volunteer around the world, she came to South Africa and was sent to Estcourt and has been here ever since.

Melinda resides in Goodhome, Ntabamhlophe with the Makhathini’s, her host family, whom have renamed her “Ntokozo Makhathini” to blend in. She works at the Meals on Wheels Organisation. Melinda is a Community HIV/Aids Outreach Program volunteer, where her focus is HIV and Aids outreach. As a volunteer Melinda has the freedom to dabble in whatever she likes. She is always willing to help in any way possible.

“Because so many different subjects are linked to HIV/Aids I have the liberty to help with informational workshops all the way to nutrition, prevention and education,” she said. “My primary focus is working with the youth and the projects at Meals on Wheels.” Melinda hopes that the programmes she has been running can continue when she is no longer around. She enjoys giving advice and ideas along with a new perspective and ways of doing things.
“I can’t describe in words how hospitable, friendly and welcoming Estcourt people have been towards me. I feel safe and needed, which at times is hard to find even in my own country. I love the scenery and the endless activities to do nearby here in Estcourt.

I have really taken advantage of my location, from the Weenen Game Reserve to the Drakensberg; this is really a great area. And despite the States being different, Estcourt has become my second home,” said Melinda.
It’s said living in a different country, which practises different cultures, always has a lot to teach. Melinda has found truth in that here in Estcourt. Every place she has visited has taught her things beyond her comprehension, she says. Melinda’s stay in Estcourt over the past year and eight months helped mould her perspective of life. She adds that she has learnt a lot about herself as well.

Melinda will be returning to the States in April 2015, “but we’ll see if I will be able to stay away from here. I am currently in the process of extending for another year to finish my projects and work on sustainability,” said Melinda with high hopes. Melinda describes herself as a very social person, in her spare time she is usually spending time with people dear to her. “I enjoy seeing other American volunteers that are nearby, as well as reading, watching movies and exploring nature through hiking and camping. I also enjoy soaking up this country and culture in any way that I can, by attending cultural events or social events that are unique to South Africa,” added Melinda.

Melinda found it quite difficult to put in words what she actually loves most about what she does. But what she does know is that, it is an amazing feeling knowing she can make a difference in someone’s life. “The gratification I get from the little children, who come running up to me and sharing with me what they were able to achieve with my help,” she recalled. “Although it is really selfish, I love the success stories,” said Melinda after giving it a lot of thought. Among the many things she loves about her “calling” rather than her “job” is the heart-warming smiles from the little children.
“I guarantee these cherished moments mean more to me than anyone else. If I make one person happy or impact them for the better, whether I know it or not, I can consider my life complete,” said the 25-five-year old.
After giggles Melinda successfully passed greetings in Zulu, to her surprise she can, generally understand a lot of what is going on when Zulu is spoken in her presence but happens to be pretty shy to speak the language.

“If any organisation or business is looking for a helping hand when it comes to community development, contact me at Meals on Wheels and I would love to offer anything that I can. Along with that, if any one would like more information regarding Meals on Wheels and our mission contact Meals on Wheels Estcourt on 036 352 5400,” added Melinda.