Stuart, an Englishman who retired at a very young age, moved to Playa del Carmen 11 years ago and since 2012, he’s been a committed volunteer at KKIS.

I moved to Playa del Carmen in 2004 and worked as a volunteer with several charities for many years.

In 2012 a friend introduced me to KKIS as a volunteer for the English Conversation Club. I immediately knew that this was for me because as an early retired person I needed a purpose and a reason to be living here apart from enjoying “La Buena Vida”.

The two high schools where I volunteer at are Cetmar 36 and Cecyte I, and over the years the kids and teachers have been a delight to work with.

The volunteers are all given around 5 students each to talk to. The kids vary in levels of their ability to speak English but the idea is to give the kids the valuable opportunity to practice their English conversation skills.

The kids are always so polite and respectful and most of all so much fun!

Volunteering should be fun and it certainly is. I always feel uplifted and happy after a class and know I have made a difference to the future of Playa del Carmen.

Over the years I have become good friends with the teachers and students and often bump into them when I’m out and about in town.

The other day I was in a shopping mall and a group of students called out “Hello teacher Stuart!”. I was delighted they even remembered me.

Since volunteering with KKIS I have been invited to the school’s graduation at the Hilton hotel and I’ve also been honored to be a judge twice for the annual English Spelling Bee competition.

Being part of the community as a foreigner is so important to me, so I am very thankful to KKIS for allowing this to happen.

I can highly recommend being a volunteer with KKIS in Playa del Carmen.

Join the English Conversation Club!

Spending time with local students is a wonderful experience. If you want to take part in this program, click here or email us at info@kkisproject.org.