Every journey begins with a single step, and for many young people, visiting Project Canaan is a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impression. This past November we celebrated the marriage of Chloe (daughter of Ian and Janine) and Asad on Project Canaan and opened our gates to a wonderful group of young adult world changers who were able to experience first hand the HOPE that lives here. They were able to witness sustainable development in action, fostering a deeper understanding of community, innovation, and hope. As they explored the vibrant landscapes and engaged with each facet of the project, their perspectives were enriched and their voices are now a testament to the impact of this remarkable place. Here is a collection of quotes capturing their awe, inspiration, and newfound understanding from this life-changing visit..
“Hearing about all the work at Project Canaan did not prepare me for seeing how amazing it is firsthand. Not only the size and various services they provide, but the love and care that went into every part. Every person we met had the biggest smiles, from the adorable inquisitive children, to the hardworking staff. I instantly felt like I was at home and their joy was contagious. I couldn’t help but smile along with them! A most humbling experience that opened my eyes to what real unrequited love is. To care for so many people, both inside and outside Project Canaan, and expecting nothing in return is truly remarkable.”
Ekrem Dememi
“This past October, I had the absolute pleasure of visiting Project Canaan for Chloe and Asad’s wedding. This experience was truly enlightening in several ways. Interacting with the children was my favourite part. These kids are so special, they choose to see the positive in life and encourage you to do the same. Every child greeted my friends and I with a smile, a hug, or inquisitive questions filled with genuine curiosity. The children at Project Canaan will inspire you to think differently, act differently and overall, change for the better. Children as young as five years old have the power to leave a long lasting impact that you will carry forever. The staff of Project Canaan are truly incredible. They are welcoming, helpful, positive and compassionate towards everyone. The generosity within Project Canaan is evident, the staff went out of their way to connect with us, educate us, support us and encourage us to live life with purpose. To say this trip was a once in a life time opportunity may be true, but I hope it isn’t. I would love to return to Project Canaan in the future and continue to see this incredible organization evolve.”
Lexi Fitzpatrick
“Over the years of hearing about Project Canaan, I truly did not know what to expect. When I arrived I was stunned at how large of an operation PC really is and how much infrastructure they have built and continue to build ever day. The hospitality and staff allowed for my time at PC to be a home away from home. The smiles that run through PC day in and day out through the children and staff was nothing short of contagious. I will always consider my time at PC a trip of a lifetime!”
Harrison Chlebus
“From the moment I stepped on PC aground I knew this place was special. Taking all these acres of land and turning it into such a special place for so many people. A home for over 400 children in need. A place to work with fair conditions and good pay for locals. A sanctuary for people from around the world to come and learn and share experiences and ideas. Heart for Africa has truly accomplished something very special with Project Canaan, and it is – in every sense of the meaning – making a difference.”
Matt Morgado
“My time at PC was eye opening. I definitely had preconceptions (not bad ones) about what the whole project was and how it worked and it exceeded my expectations. We were so lucky to be invited to the home of all 400+ kids who live there first of all. The sustainability of the entire place is impressive in itself with a chicken farm’s excess going straight to fertilizer for more goodness to be grown. The entire property is absolutely beautiful with the craziest sunsets I’ve ever seen. Being able to join the kids and Janine and Ian for church on Sunday was awesome and the singers in that staff group are insanely talented. The entire organization is well thought out and clearly has a huge group of awesome people behind the scenes running it all. So glad I got to be apart of this experience and I will for sure remember it for lifetimes to come!”
Maya Shaw
“Other than it being my brother’s wedding, visiting PC was one of the most life changing experiences of my life. I’ve never felt so much good energy, love, and hope around me like I did there. I’ve never been great with kids, but the way the little boys and girls on PC reach out to you has been stuck in my head everyday since leaving. I am absolutely going to be coming back and I don’t see a future for myself where I’m not going to be involved with this amazing project moving forward.”
Raaid Tamjeed
We are thrilled that a new generation is catching the vision and will carry the message of hope to their generation, ensuring that the seeds of change continue to grow and flourish.