I've been wanting to write about this for a while now. I've received much support from friends and family through social media lately. I knew my internship was a big deal to me, but I am surprised that people are interested in it as well. And the two reasons I was able to be part of this experience are these two very common names: Mom & Dad.
 |
| Just a few hours away from my final destination... |
 |
| Before receiving their pencils... |
Even though I had cold feet (JUST) before leaving (was trying to be a big girl before that), I cannot find the words to describe how grateful I am that they let me come to Africa on my own (and made sure I have all I need during my stay). I have always wanted to explore the world and this is one step closer to doing so.
I asked for friends and family to bring me supplies before I left. I had these distributed by staff members at AYIDO to OVCs (Orphans and Vulnerable Children). The children were excited to receive the little I had been able to bring with me. And I made sure they knew the material was donated by friends and family back home!
Since my last post, I have attended various international development workshops, a malawian wedding and an intensive Chichewa language training. Oh, and most of these took place steps from beautiful Lake Malawi. Not bad, huh ? I also attended a cultural training that has allowed me to better understand some of the malawian ways and their culture.
 |
| Bigger kids receiving some supplies ! |
 |
| Just cause they're cute. |
Now I need to be honest and say that my placement, until now, has not been what I hoped it would be. Most of the challenges the programme tried to prepare us for in Canada seem to have occurred. As well as the unexpected: the problems are larger than life, but the means to overcome these problems are not as prominent. And yet the issues remain. Resource mobilization in a community where the needs are as basic as proper water and sanitation facilities can be overwhelming at times. Not to mention the everyday challenges an Azungu must face in this society. Regardless, I am loving my experience traveling/living in Blantyre and pretending to be a local (I wish)! And as for work, I am confident I will find ways to offer capacity building strategies within the NGO.
I know, not as adventurous as the usual "I was a few feet away from a rhino" post, but this is what I can share for now. Next stop: Tea Estates and climbing Mount Mulanje (highest mountain in central Africa) !
MERCI Maman
THANK YOU Dad
And ZIKOMO to all my friends and family who contributed to offering these deserving children a little something to make them smile or a bit ;)
Zabwino zonse ! xx
S.
 |
| Thank you everyone. |
