We discovered Benin thanks to Hirondelle de l'avenir. This trip was a real individual adventure undertaken collectively, as we experienced incredible moments together. Every day we had wonderful encounters. We set out to give our support through various activities, but we received so much more in return! So much happiness, warm welcomes, and smiles!

Since I was little, I was told: your African origins come from Benin, Togo, Niger... And as I grew up, I promised myself that one day I would go there and come back with a bag full of Beninese soil. Mission accomplished! Thanks to Hirondelles, my trip allowed me to have a big-screen experience, but also to come and support the children and communities with arms full of love to share. Our group was excited to meet them and discover their country. My best memory? The welcome songs, the little hands clapping together, and their eyes full of life. I walked with my feet in the earth and breathed deeply the air near the point of no return. I had some wonderful encounters. Sophie has shown me that it's possible for over 15 years. She supports children and women today thanks to her interventions.

I am delighted and very grateful to have been able to take part in the March 2024 edition of the solidarity and participatory trip to Benin with the Hirondelle de l'Avenir association. Before the trip, everything went smoothly, thanks to the various explanations provided by the association's president and her team, and communication was always straightforward. During the trip, everything was perfect, even if there were sometimes small changes—that's Benin for you—and thanks to the group, who were able to adapt to all situations. It was the trip of a lifetime, a collective journey, and also a journey of self-discovery. I have just one word: thank you. Thank you for these wonderful encounters with the children, the staff of the orphanages and schools, and also with the Hirondelle de l'avenir group. These encounters will remain etched in our memories forever.

I've been back for four days now, but my heart is still in Benin. The experience of this trip was extraordinary, whether culturally, spiritually, in terms of sharing, giving of oneself, and the love received in return.