Nancy Mukubesa

In addition, I had the privilege to work in a molecular biological and microbiological laboratory named Biolytx AG with ISO 17025 accreditation, a close stakeholder for Zweifel where samples are sent for external analysis. At this lab I was exposed to microbial analysis of organisms such as salmonella and legionella, DNA extraction and real-time PCR, allergen (soy, lactose, milk, gluten) detection methods (ELISA).

My Swiss Host Family

What could I have done without my kind, caring and supportive Blumenthal host family? The warm hugs and asking to carry my suitcase at the airport to the car, seeing my name on the wall and chocolates in my well organised room made me feel at home and safe. The fact that there are children, made it easier for me to immediately integrate into the family. My host siblings were very kind and funny, taught me German basics. Dinner table was the playground for cultural exchange and sharing how everyone spend their day, so I hardly missed breakfast and dinner.  My favourite sentences in the morning were “Guten Morgen, Wie geht es dir, hast du gut geschlafen? Ja, ich habe gut geschlafen”. English translation “good morning, did you sleep well, yes, I slept well.”  My host parents (Marco and Karin) were always there for me, it was just a matter of asking. They treated me like their own child, from showing and recommending places to visit, doing my laundry, cooking, to advising. When I helped with chores, my host mom would say “no, Nancy you don’t have to work”, then I told her, “please let me finish what I started”. The first two weeks, it rained so much, so I use to go to work with my host dad. The third week, he showed me how to take the train and bus to work.

Surprisingly, I liked most of the food at home, especially the cheese dishes. When they were invited to other families for dinner, they took me along to meet new people. I will always remember my unlimited storyteller host sister (Madeleine), my football coach (Gabriel), life advisor and laughing partner (Manuel, the family’s oldest son). Not forgetting one of my favourite Swiss dishes Fondue, which I ate many times and salad sauce made by my host dad. Overall, I had the best experience in Switzerland, all thanks to my host family. The Blumenthal family, thank you so much for your unique kindness, and I am positive that it will come back to you in unexpected ways.

Highlights and Challenges in Switzerland

My biggest highlight was at the Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt, where I saw and touched the snow for the first time. Doing lab tests alone and getting desired results were the most beautiful moments, as this boosted my confidence and skills. Not forgetting exploring the beautiful Switzerland during weekends with other students. The only challenge I had, was during the first days when I had many documents to translate.

My Future Plans

I am looking forward to graduate next year, while also searching for employment, whereby I would like work for 10 months or more. Then I will apply for a scholarship to study a master’s degree in Global Health Science and Epidemiology in the UK.

Personal Message

Faith, hard work, perseverance and persistent prayer is the key to live our dreams. If you can dream it, claim it through hard work and using the available resources to the maximum capacity. I am grateful to B360 Education Partnerships team for recognising my hard work and entrusting me with this life-changing opportunity. May God bless you in all capacities to keep on changing the lives of Southern African young people.