Natalie Denmead left her Wingham home 18 months ago to start a new life in East Africa.
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Back home recently for a few weeks the ex TAFE NSW teacher was able to tell the story of her remarkable efforts to start a new venture on the island of Zanzibar, Tanzania.
While home she was hoping to drum up support for her venture – Kuza Cave Culture Centre – by way of donations and volunteers to help not only support the Swahali people Natalie now calls neighbours, but also to continue to grow a small public school nearby.
Natalie describes Zanzibar as a “very beautiful tropical island.”
After selling her Wingham home Natalie plunged all her money into a bush property on the island, being inititally drawn to one particular feature on the land – a sacred cave with a crystal clear swimming pool made from the underground water table.
As stated on the Kuza Cave website, swimming in the healing mineral waters is an unforgettable experience.
The cave is rich in history and steeped in superstition.
“But it has become more than just the cave,” Natalie said.
Natalie saw the need for a Swahili culture centre that would offer tourists an authentic local experience. One which would benefit the Swahili people by giving them an outlet to share their arts and culture with a growing tourist trade without being exploited.
Life in Zanzibar is simple and naturally beautiful but full of challenges.
Corruption and greed are rife and Natalie has had many set backs in the past 18 months trying to get her venture off the ground.
“I’ve put a lot of effort into this,” she said.
“I’m so determined I’m not going to give up.”
She is currently trying to get NGO status for the culture centre, which at the moment employs five local staff.
Proceeds of the centre have already helped support the building of two new classrooms at a small public school on Zanzibar.
While home in Wingham Natalie also approached local businesses to rally support for a breakfast program at the school.
She said her trip back home had been restorative and she enjoyed the simple luxuries we take for granted in Australia.
Like electricity, salami, ham and cheese.
To volunteer or donate visit www.kuzacave.com