In mid-April, I set out with three colleagues on one of our regular training missions, this time heading to Miandrivazo, in southwestern Madagascar. I didn’t expect this trip to leave such a lasting mark on me — but by the end, I understood exactly why we do this work.
A Journey Into the Heart of Madagascar
The drive out from Tana took us through landscapes that kept shifting, hour after hour: wild, generous nature, a rich culture, and people whose warmth reached me from our very first exchange. Just being there felt like a privilege, and I knew from that first day that this mission would stay with me for a long time. But nothing prepared me for what I would experience once the training began.
During our sessions, I listened as participants shared their own experiences, and with every testimony, one thing became clearer to me: this first aid training is vital, and everyone should have the chance to learn it.
Asly once witnessed someone severely injured and didn’t know how to stop the bleeding. The person didn’t survive — a memory he still carries with him. Mirana once faced someone unconscious without knowing how to react, but what marked her most was the day her own toddler started choking and she had no idea how to help. And then there was Leonard, a young man who dreams of becoming a doctor — tasting, even briefly, what it means to help someone in distress may be exactly what he needed to fuel that calling.
One thing became clearer to me: this first aid training is vital, and everyone should have the chance to learn it.
Three different stories, one same lesson: knowing what to do in that critical moment can change everything. That realization carries me through to the end of every training, leaving me with deep gratitude for the privilege of helping save lives in Miandrivazo, and across Madagascar.
Running Beyond Borders
Helping and saving lives is a commitment that reaches beyond Madagascar’s borders. For several years now, I’ve taken part in the Wings for Life World Run, which raises funds for spinal cord injury research. My registration fee goes directly toward that research, and thanks to our generous sponsors, every kilometer I ran also helped fund our work here in Madagascar.
This year was special: one of our runners showed remarkable strength, completing 29 km. As for me, I may not be the strongest or fastest runner, but my determination hasn’t wavered through this, my third participation — it’s always a pleasure and a privilege to run for those who, for so many reasons, cannot. Every step I took was carried by a deep desire to reach those in need, and joy was everywhere, especially among the families who ran alongside us. So I’m putting out the call now: if you can walk or run, come strengthen our team in May 2027.
Conclusion: A Vision That Keeps Carrying Me Forward
I am deeply grateful to Aina Soa, and especially to its founder, Nicole, for the chance to carry and live out this vision — training first aid trainers. It’s simply priceless. Working at AiNA soa feels like exactly where I belong, because I truly love helping others. Sometimes I ask myself: where do I even start? What can I really offer? Here’s what I’d say: start with what you have. Even a smile can give someone the strength to keep moving forward. It’s never too late. Let’s help each other.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone working behind the scenes who keeps AiNA soa moving forward and reaching ever further.
Mamitiana, Cleaning & Assistant Instructor