In July 2018, I traveled with one of National Geographic's Student Expeditions to Tanzania. The people of Tanzania say "Karibu" or "Welcome" before even knowing your name.
Our student group was paired with selected students from Mwera's school system. Jonas, pictured later, was my guide and now a close friend.
During my 16 days in Tanzania, I observed the strong western influence. While globalization and modernization are said to improve the quality of daily life, they also dilute tradition. Commercial brands begin to overtake local productions. Natural materials are slowly replaced by plastics. Tanzania fights to hold on to their culture while also adopting modern technology and ideals.