Cheryl Flight, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning at the Tyndale Christian School Group in South Australia, embarked on a life-changing journey some years ago to Vietnam, Cambodia, and most recently, Uganda as a volunteer. Reflecting on her time abroad, Cheryl shares the profound impact the experience had on her personally and professionally. She encourages others to embrace similar opportunities, highlighting the immense benefits of stepping out of one's comfort zone to make a difference in the lives of others.
'If you have the opportunity to serve abroad, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take it—you’ll find it as enriching as it is meaningful'.
Offering my time to overseas service has been very rewarding, both personally and professionally. I have been blessed to have time in Vietnam, Cambodia and most recently, for a short stint, Uganda. It has broadened my perspective, exposing me to diverse educational systems, cultures, and ways of teaching. Working in environments with limited resources has challenged me to be creative and adaptable, and reminds me that good learning is not resource dependent.
Our first step into this space for an extended period was a Godly prompting that students and teachers need those who are at ‘the top of their game’ to serve, and it really challenged me that the opportunity was not for ‘some time’ but for ‘this time’.
The experience pushed me to grow as a person. Navigating language barriers and cultural differences enhanced my communication skills, and working closely with communities in need deepened my empathy and resilience. It also gave me a profound sense of gratitude and a renewed appreciation for the opportunities I have. Living and serving abroad has enriched my life in countless ways.
Professionally, it helped me develop a global perspective and cultural competence, skills that have proven invaluable in today’s diverse classrooms. I returned with new teaching strategies and a broader understanding of education. The connections I made with educators overseas also opened doors to new collaborations and has broadened my understanding of what excellence in education can look like. There is so much to learn from different approaches.
Spiritually and emotionally, overseas service aligned with my values of compassion and stewardship, giving me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Joshua 24:15 ‘As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord’. For us, God has given us gifts and talents that we desire to put to use for kingdom purposes.
Offering my time overseas is a two-way exchange. While I aim to serve and make an impact, I gain so much in return. It not only shapes the educator I am today but has also deepened my commitment to serving others and inspiring students and staff to think globally.
If you have the opportunity to serve abroad, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take it—you’ll find it as enriching as it is meaningful. You will never know if you never go, and for me it has certainly not been a ‘one and done’ experience. In 2025 Indonesia and Vietnam, along with my lovely Tyndale community, will be my learning and serving spaces.