Thank you for your interest in TENGERUES – Authentic African Wrap Pants
Please take the time to watch our video explaining the purpose of our organization.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3m98Gyz6rSY
We are honoured that you have chosen to support our Cooperative and experience ‘Fashion With Conscience’. TENGERUES are made in Tanzania, East Africa, in a village surrounding Arusha, where an estimated 10% of the tested population is HIV positive.
At the TENGERUES Cooperative, we strive to meet two goals:
1. To provide sustainable and fair income to uneducated women.
2. To fund the tailoring program where female AIDS orphans have access to education and training skills? Women hired as the seamstresses in our cooperative are graduates of an NGO called WAMATA. They were unable to complete education due to the strains of caring for family members affected by HIV/AIDS. During their time at WAMATA, they learned how to sew and basic English literacy skills.
The TENGERUES organization provides these women an opportunity use their skills to earn fair income for their families. We at the TENGERUES Cooperative believe in doing our part to help reach the Millennium Development Goals- particularly Goal #2 - Universal Primary Education, - that by the year 2015, children everywhere, boys and girls alike will be able to complete a full course of primary schooling.
A portion from the proceeds from this sale will help fund the tailoring school that will service adolescence whose parents are affected with HIV/AIDS.
Product Samples: The beautiful fabric used to make TENGERUES is called Kitenge and produced and manufactured in Tanzania. Kitenge is 100% cotton, and fade resistant. There are hundreds of colours and designs to choose from..
Care:
TENGERUES should be washed separately in cold water and dried at a low temperature. Ironing is recommended.
Committment to Our Planet:
To help reduce our carbon footprint, the TENGERUES Cooperative has chosen to use only recyclable materials for marketing, packaging and promotion. Please help us on our mission to keep our Earth clean and healthy for future generations.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
TENGERUES- The Cooperative
Fashion With Conscience
A model wearing TENGERUES
The idea to bring life to TENGERUES- African Wrap Pants, has not been forgotten. Over the past year I have been working hard to make contacts, learn the basics of sewing, small business creation, marketing and freight forwarding. All in all, this year has been a definite learning curve.
I have decided that Tengerues Wrap Pants will take on the form of a cooperative out of the Tengeru Market. I hope to work closely with Alex and Silvano to hire a team of graduates from WAMATA (all teenaged AIDS orphans), to produce the pants. This process will begin once we have a bulk order. Part of the funds generated from the sale of the pants will go towards a community project we will establish to support primary education within the village. It should be noted that 10% of the citizens of the village of Tengeru have tested positive for HIV.
Pease e-mail me directly annie.bondy@sympatico.ca with ideas, suggestions or interest.
The idea for Tengeru Wrap Pants came from a pair of Asian wrap pants we bought in Tanzania in the summer of '06. The tailors there were able to replicate them using authentic Tanzanian fabric called Kitenge. They are wonderfully flattering to all figures, shapes and sizes. They are comfortable and can either be dressed up, or worn casually. The picture below shows Silvano, the head tailor of TENGERUES, hard at work in the Tengeru Market. You may read more about him in the blog entries below. I have also included a picture of how the fabrics (kitenges) are sold in the market.
Samples from the 'TENGERUES ' wrap pants collection~
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Youth AIDS Conference November 30th, 2006
Hello Everyone,
I had the honour of speaking at the Youth AIDS Conference November 30th at the Caboto Club. It was a wonderful experience being able to speak in front of over 250 students from the Public School Board. In my fifteen minute presentation, I spoke of the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Tanzania, and asked that everyone become aware and involved. My entire presentation is below, and soon, I will be posting the video and slide presentation of my pictures.
Thanks for staying with me.
Youth AIDS Conference
Good morning everyone or as they say in the African language of Swahili - Habari Zaasabuhi. I would like to begin with a special thanks to Dana Boyd, who has invited me here today to share with you the wonderful experience I had this past summer during a volunteer trip to Tanzania, East Africa. I also owe a special thank you to Julia Weissar who put together the powerpoint presentation of my pictures that we just watched, Thank you both ladies, very much.
This past August, I volunteered through an organization called Cross Cultural Solutions with the purpose of providing HIV/AIDS education and prevention strategies to members of a community that has been completely ravished by this epidemic. It is my hope that today by sharing with you some of the pictures, stories and struggles of the beautiful people I had the honour of working with, you will see the importance of stepping up and doing your part both locally and globally to help in the fight against a disease that has claimed so many lives. The need in Africa for education and prevention is overwhelming, but we have to remember that here in Windsor/Essex (our own community), HIV is also a reality, and as the title of our conference implies... it is up to us (Generation Y) to dare to be strong and commit to being a part of changing our world... one step at a time.
Back to Africa... let me begin be telling you that everything in Africa is different. Life moves at a much slower pace. They even have a saying in Swahili for this called Pole Pole , and we were warned well in advance that life there really does run in slow motion. There are no luxuries, electricity is rarely available at all during daylight hours without the use of a generator, water is unsanitary and undrinkable, food is scarce, and worse of all, the spread of HIV is out of control. I learned early on, that there are many contributors to the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS : lack of education, and the horrible rumours that circulate on how you can cure yourself, tribal rituals which affect 50% of the population encourage unsanitary mass circumcision and natural child births where HIV is passed from mother to baby. Worse of all though, is the negative stigma that comes with a positive HIV test result. You see, people are too afraid to be tested in fear that they will be deserted by their friends and family, and left alone to die. This is a very common occurrence in the community and is the reason so many continue to spread the virus without even knowing they are infected.
The picture you see here speaks to this concern. During my first few days in Tanzania, our volunteer group was asked to play a soccer match against the positive test club. As their name implies all the men you see wearing blue are HIV positive. They asked us to play against them with the hope that if their community could see North American (Mzungus) feeling safe enough to engage in sport with them, then maybe their community members and relatives would decide not to treat them as outcasts. We played our hearts out, lost miserably but were overjoyed at the outcome. With tears in our eyes, we watched as community members descended from the stands after the game to shake the hands of the men they had once disowned. The team thanked us through a translator. We were all very overwhelmed. We owed them the thank you for teaching us the lesson of acceptance. This is one example of how a small act can make a world of difference.
The next part of my story takes us to the focus of my work in Tanzania - a non-profit organization called WAMATA located in the heart of Arusha where we were staying. The purpose of this organization was to reach out to the most vulnerable and at risk members of the community affected by HIV. My focus here was teaching English to 20 girls between the ages of 14-21, all orphans of AIDS. The girls would walk to WAMATA everyday. This might not seem like much of a big deal, except that their walk typically took between 1 to 2 hours, they came to school on an empty stomachs, and left behind anywhere from 3-6 siblings for which they were the only guardian. English was only taught if a volunteer was available, but the girls saw it as their ticket to a better life. Because they had to care for their dying parents the girls had to drop out of public education and relied on places like WAMATA solely, since once you drop out of public education in Tanzania, there is not ticket back in. My classroom was a very small room lit only by sunlight. We had no resources to work with and the idea of a photocopier- typically a teacher's most important tool, was out of the question. I had a very small chalk board, and 3 pieces of chalk. The girls had no desks, and sat on small backless benches and wrote on their laps. I realized how much they valued supplies when they showed me their pencils (no bigger than your pinky finger) wrapped preciously in a small piece of cloth, tucked away in their pockets for safekeeping - to think a pencil was that important to them... The girls spent the morning learning English and the afternoon learning to sew. I learned that the girls only ate one meal a day which was provided by WAMATA and consisted of a cup of porridge and a piece of white bread. Let me repeat- that was their only meal in a day because the rest of the food however scarce when to their siblings. This was a very had concept for me to swallow, and it amazed me that they still had such bright smiles. It was in their eyes though that I saw pain and exhaustion, and wondered how the world could be so unfair.
As you can imagine in a very short time, I became very close to these girls and decided that the least they deserved was a comfortable desk to sit at. With the help of the head tailor - Silvano, we began the coffee fundraiser. The girls worked all afternoon to sew cloth coffee bags. We had a screen stamp made with the AIDS awareness symbol, and filled the small bags with Tanzanian coffee. In less than 3 weeks, we were able to sell over 200 bags and in turn were able to purchase a sturdy desk for each girl. The best part though, is that this project proved to be sustainable, and the volunteers after me have continued this initiative and have helped raise much needed funds for the organization. When the girls received their new desks, they were overjoyed, and picked me up and twirled me around the room. I explained to them after, that the project was a success because of their hard work and that they were TRUE heroes. The head tailor - Silvano thanked me endlessly and told me that I would one day be repaid for all of my hard work. I thought to myself that just seeing the joy in my girls' eyes was more payment than I could have ever hoped for. This was a true success story, but unfortunately, not all of my experiences in Africa were as heart-warming.
One of the projects of WAMATA is to make home visits to members of the community who have become too sick to leave home. Volunteers would bring them basic necessities like sugar, oil and bread to help them make it through their final days. The woman and older man you see in this picture are dying. An opportunistic infection has taken over their bodies, and their immune system is too weak to fight it off. AIDS has ultimately won the battle. With a guide and a translator, we walked for 2 hours to meet these people who lived in remote areas, in homes that were completely run down. It was in meeting them that I learned a very valuable lesson that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. They invited me into their homes, told me their stories, but in their eyes, I could see profound fear. Imagine how humbling it was when they opened the loaf of bread I brought them to offer me a piece. I found that simply amazing. These people knew they were dying, yet still found a way to smile. It was in these moments that I realized that back in Canada we hear only about the statistics of AIDS, people become numbers, and that it becomes easy to change the channel, and turn the page. What seems to be missed though is that every one of those numbers, has a story, a loving heart, a family who they are so scared to leave behind. They are all someone’s mother, father, brother, sister son or daughter. Their story however is about to end, and there is nothing they can do now but wait. In this moment I vowed to bring their stories with me back to my own community, to encourage my own friends, family and community members to stay involved, informed and active in the fight against HIV/AIDS. You see here in North America, we have the knowledge and tools to protect ourselves, but we mustn’t be afraid to talk about HIV, and most importantly, we mustn’t forget the many people who aren’t as fortunate.
I have been very lucky to have made my dreams of visiting Africa become reality. Back at home, my work continues. With the help of my students at Western Secondary we have begun a pen pal project with the girls at WAMATA. Twenty students most of whom are in the audience today have written a letter including pictures and stories of their own lives. It is our hope that these letters will remind the girls that they are in our in our thoughts. Although communication has been very difficult, I am trying to bring the coffee project to Canada, so that I can help them fundraise here at home, and I continue to keep up a blog - an online journal- I maintained during the trip. Locally, at Western we participate in the annual AIDS awareness day through CANFAR where we supply our student body and sell candy-grams with a small pamphlet explaining how HIV is spread and prevented. There are so many opportunities to become involved, and a true reward in knowing that your commitment may help to save lives.
As you look at the picture above and read the quote that is shared by all Tanzanians - "We Share Our Poverty" and as you look into the eyes of the children of Arusha, take your own step either small or large, locally or globally, to make HIV a nightmare of the past. Let’s work together for a brighter future for our world.. One step at a time.
We are generation Y and together we can take the small steps that really can change our world.
I would like to leave you now with one final message that begins with a quote from Anne Frank...
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. ~Anne Frank
You are all ambassadors of our future… Let’s work together as Generation Y to stop the spread of AIDS. Please keep yourself informed… Care about those you may never meet. Talk about HIV. Protect yourself. Don’t be afraid to get tested, and become one of the small steps that changes our world.
Thank You~ for your time and attention both from myself and my friends in Arusha - We really do appreciate this opportunity.
Hello Everyone,
I had the honour of speaking at the Youth AIDS Conference November 30th at the Caboto Club. It was a wonderful experience being able to speak in front of over 250 students from the Public School Board. In my fifteen minute presentation, I spoke of the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Tanzania, and asked that everyone become aware and involved. My entire presentation is below, and soon, I will be posting the video and slide presentation of my pictures.
Thanks for staying with me.
Youth AIDS Conference
Good morning everyone or as they say in the African language of Swahili - Habari Zaasabuhi. I would like to begin with a special thanks to Dana Boyd, who has invited me here today to share with you the wonderful experience I had this past summer during a volunteer trip to Tanzania, East Africa. I also owe a special thank you to Julia Weissar who put together the powerpoint presentation of my pictures that we just watched, Thank you both ladies, very much.
This past August, I volunteered through an organization called Cross Cultural Solutions with the purpose of providing HIV/AIDS education and prevention strategies to members of a community that has been completely ravished by this epidemic. It is my hope that today by sharing with you some of the pictures, stories and struggles of the beautiful people I had the honour of working with, you will see the importance of stepping up and doing your part both locally and globally to help in the fight against a disease that has claimed so many lives. The need in Africa for education and prevention is overwhelming, but we have to remember that here in Windsor/Essex (our own community), HIV is also a reality, and as the title of our conference implies... it is up to us (Generation Y) to dare to be strong and commit to being a part of changing our world... one step at a time.
Back to Africa... let me begin be telling you that everything in Africa is different. Life moves at a much slower pace. They even have a saying in Swahili for this called Pole Pole , and we were warned well in advance that life there really does run in slow motion. There are no luxuries, electricity is rarely available at all during daylight hours without the use of a generator, water is unsanitary and undrinkable, food is scarce, and worse of all, the spread of HIV is out of control. I learned early on, that there are many contributors to the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS : lack of education, and the horrible rumours that circulate on how you can cure yourself, tribal rituals which affect 50% of the population encourage unsanitary mass circumcision and natural child births where HIV is passed from mother to baby. Worse of all though, is the negative stigma that comes with a positive HIV test result. You see, people are too afraid to be tested in fear that they will be deserted by their friends and family, and left alone to die. This is a very common occurrence in the community and is the reason so many continue to spread the virus without even knowing they are infected.
The picture you see here speaks to this concern. During my first few days in Tanzania, our volunteer group was asked to play a soccer match against the positive test club. As their name implies all the men you see wearing blue are HIV positive. They asked us to play against them with the hope that if their community could see North American (Mzungus) feeling safe enough to engage in sport with them, then maybe their community members and relatives would decide not to treat them as outcasts. We played our hearts out, lost miserably but were overjoyed at the outcome. With tears in our eyes, we watched as community members descended from the stands after the game to shake the hands of the men they had once disowned. The team thanked us through a translator. We were all very overwhelmed. We owed them the thank you for teaching us the lesson of acceptance. This is one example of how a small act can make a world of difference.
The next part of my story takes us to the focus of my work in Tanzania - a non-profit organization called WAMATA located in the heart of Arusha where we were staying. The purpose of this organization was to reach out to the most vulnerable and at risk members of the community affected by HIV. My focus here was teaching English to 20 girls between the ages of 14-21, all orphans of AIDS. The girls would walk to WAMATA everyday. This might not seem like much of a big deal, except that their walk typically took between 1 to 2 hours, they came to school on an empty stomachs, and left behind anywhere from 3-6 siblings for which they were the only guardian. English was only taught if a volunteer was available, but the girls saw it as their ticket to a better life. Because they had to care for their dying parents the girls had to drop out of public education and relied on places like WAMATA solely, since once you drop out of public education in Tanzania, there is not ticket back in. My classroom was a very small room lit only by sunlight. We had no resources to work with and the idea of a photocopier- typically a teacher's most important tool, was out of the question. I had a very small chalk board, and 3 pieces of chalk. The girls had no desks, and sat on small backless benches and wrote on their laps. I realized how much they valued supplies when they showed me their pencils (no bigger than your pinky finger) wrapped preciously in a small piece of cloth, tucked away in their pockets for safekeeping - to think a pencil was that important to them... The girls spent the morning learning English and the afternoon learning to sew. I learned that the girls only ate one meal a day which was provided by WAMATA and consisted of a cup of porridge and a piece of white bread. Let me repeat- that was their only meal in a day because the rest of the food however scarce when to their siblings. This was a very had concept for me to swallow, and it amazed me that they still had such bright smiles. It was in their eyes though that I saw pain and exhaustion, and wondered how the world could be so unfair.
As you can imagine in a very short time, I became very close to these girls and decided that the least they deserved was a comfortable desk to sit at. With the help of the head tailor - Silvano, we began the coffee fundraiser. The girls worked all afternoon to sew cloth coffee bags. We had a screen stamp made with the AIDS awareness symbol, and filled the small bags with Tanzanian coffee. In less than 3 weeks, we were able to sell over 200 bags and in turn were able to purchase a sturdy desk for each girl. The best part though, is that this project proved to be sustainable, and the volunteers after me have continued this initiative and have helped raise much needed funds for the organization. When the girls received their new desks, they were overjoyed, and picked me up and twirled me around the room. I explained to them after, that the project was a success because of their hard work and that they were TRUE heroes. The head tailor - Silvano thanked me endlessly and told me that I would one day be repaid for all of my hard work. I thought to myself that just seeing the joy in my girls' eyes was more payment than I could have ever hoped for. This was a true success story, but unfortunately, not all of my experiences in Africa were as heart-warming.
One of the projects of WAMATA is to make home visits to members of the community who have become too sick to leave home. Volunteers would bring them basic necessities like sugar, oil and bread to help them make it through their final days. The woman and older man you see in this picture are dying. An opportunistic infection has taken over their bodies, and their immune system is too weak to fight it off. AIDS has ultimately won the battle. With a guide and a translator, we walked for 2 hours to meet these people who lived in remote areas, in homes that were completely run down. It was in meeting them that I learned a very valuable lesson that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. They invited me into their homes, told me their stories, but in their eyes, I could see profound fear. Imagine how humbling it was when they opened the loaf of bread I brought them to offer me a piece. I found that simply amazing. These people knew they were dying, yet still found a way to smile. It was in these moments that I realized that back in Canada we hear only about the statistics of AIDS, people become numbers, and that it becomes easy to change the channel, and turn the page. What seems to be missed though is that every one of those numbers, has a story, a loving heart, a family who they are so scared to leave behind. They are all someone’s mother, father, brother, sister son or daughter. Their story however is about to end, and there is nothing they can do now but wait. In this moment I vowed to bring their stories with me back to my own community, to encourage my own friends, family and community members to stay involved, informed and active in the fight against HIV/AIDS. You see here in North America, we have the knowledge and tools to protect ourselves, but we mustn’t be afraid to talk about HIV, and most importantly, we mustn’t forget the many people who aren’t as fortunate.
I have been very lucky to have made my dreams of visiting Africa become reality. Back at home, my work continues. With the help of my students at Western Secondary we have begun a pen pal project with the girls at WAMATA. Twenty students most of whom are in the audience today have written a letter including pictures and stories of their own lives. It is our hope that these letters will remind the girls that they are in our in our thoughts. Although communication has been very difficult, I am trying to bring the coffee project to Canada, so that I can help them fundraise here at home, and I continue to keep up a blog - an online journal- I maintained during the trip. Locally, at Western we participate in the annual AIDS awareness day through CANFAR where we supply our student body and sell candy-grams with a small pamphlet explaining how HIV is spread and prevented. There are so many opportunities to become involved, and a true reward in knowing that your commitment may help to save lives.
As you look at the picture above and read the quote that is shared by all Tanzanians - "We Share Our Poverty" and as you look into the eyes of the children of Arusha, take your own step either small or large, locally or globally, to make HIV a nightmare of the past. Let’s work together for a brighter future for our world.. One step at a time.
We are generation Y and together we can take the small steps that really can change our world.
I would like to leave you now with one final message that begins with a quote from Anne Frank...
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. ~Anne Frank
You are all ambassadors of our future… Let’s work together as Generation Y to stop the spread of AIDS. Please keep yourself informed… Care about those you may never meet. Talk about HIV. Protect yourself. Don’t be afraid to get tested, and become one of the small steps that changes our world.
Thank You~ for your time and attention both from myself and my friends in Arusha - We really do appreciate this opportunity.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Dreams are the seeds of change. Nothing ever grows without a seed, and nothing ever changes without a dream.
Debby Boone
I received the following e-mail yesterday from Lisa - the CCS volunteer who volunteered for 3 weeks at WAMATA. As you can imagine I am overjoyed, and really want to thank her for following through on the coffee project and keeping me updated on the progress of my Tanzanian friends. My dreams continue to come true. I can't believe how much I miss Africa, and the genuine goodness of her people. I really do look forward to returning in the near future.
Hi Annie,
Sorry for the late email. I just returned home and am not enjoying it (I
want to go back!!)
John, the treasurer, sent me an email and I replied asking him to talk to
Silvano about the coffee bags. I'll let you know when I hear back from him.
I did ask Ellie and Silvano about the English classes. Ellie was exstatic.
She's loving it and is extremely thankful. And Silvano, his english
improved just in my short time there. He is also very thankful and misses
you a lot.
Silvano and I also sold some coffee. That was such a great idea! There
should definitely be enough money for all the desks and hopefully some books
for the girls (or whatever else they might need).
Hope you are well,
Lisa
Debby Boone
I received the following e-mail yesterday from Lisa - the CCS volunteer who volunteered for 3 weeks at WAMATA. As you can imagine I am overjoyed, and really want to thank her for following through on the coffee project and keeping me updated on the progress of my Tanzanian friends. My dreams continue to come true. I can't believe how much I miss Africa, and the genuine goodness of her people. I really do look forward to returning in the near future.
Hi Annie,
Sorry for the late email. I just returned home and am not enjoying it (I
want to go back!!)
John, the treasurer, sent me an email and I replied asking him to talk to
Silvano about the coffee bags. I'll let you know when I hear back from him.
I did ask Ellie and Silvano about the English classes. Ellie was exstatic.
She's loving it and is extremely thankful. And Silvano, his english
improved just in my short time there. He is also very thankful and misses
you a lot.
Silvano and I also sold some coffee. That was such a great idea! There
should definitely be enough money for all the desks and hopefully some books
for the girls (or whatever else they might need).
Hope you are well,
Lisa
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible.
Anonymous
Hello All,
I am so grateful to those of you who continue to stay with me on this journey... and it does continue. I have recently made contact with WAMATA. Emmanuel is elated that we will be continuing the coffee fundraiser from
Locally, there have been some developments as well. I had the opportunity to bring a group of students to hear Dr. Jane Goodall (one of my idols) speak last week during her Youth Conference that was held in Windsor. After hearing her speak the night before, I was very eager for my students to have the chance to hear her speak so calmly and yet come across so convicted in her message. Dr. Goodall opened the conference with a chimpanzee call that she learned while studying the behaviour of these animals in
This week, I will accompany another group of students to
I have recently received all of our safari pictures. My next entry will explain the beautiful wildlife we saw in Tanzania during our safari to the Ngorogoro Crater and
I will keep you posted on any upcoming fundraiser to support WAMATA and the orphaned girls.
Signing out,
Annie
Saturday, September 23, 2006
"Will you remember me? Will you remember me? Oh yes, yes I will remember you".
(Exerpt from a song that my girls sang on my last day of placement.)
It has been 3 weeks since my return from Tanzania, and there hasn't been a single day that I haven't thought about my girls and Silvano. Readjusting to my familiar surroundings has had its pros and cons. Having such a wonderful support system has made things much easier, but there have been many sleepless nights spent wondering how I ended up to be so fortunate. It's amazing to think that in only 18 short hours things can change so much, yet still the lives of those in Tanzania go on - without me. It's strange because I remember back to when I was young, and thought that when I went to sleep, time stood still, when I was sick from school - there was no school that day, and if I was hiding and couldn't see my "chaser", then they definitely couldn't see me. It's difficult growing up, and realizing that yes, life does go on.
I have been in contact with Emmanuel from WAMATA. Unfortunately, the government has cut power in Arusha yet again. Now everyday during daylight, power is shut off, and to access any form of electricity, a generator must be used... Unfortunately most of the citizens have no access to this type of expensive accommodation.
I have placed an order to Silvano for WRAP pants, that I will be selling back home. With communications being so poor, this venture is in the trial stages. If it is a success, the money will go towards helping Silvano start his own tailoring shop. The start-up cost is $1000US, but with this initiative, Silvano and his employees, "my girls", will become self-sufficient.
Many people have asked me if I have changed through this experience. The short answer is yes, as it is impossible to experience such a different world and not be changed. During the first few showers I had back home - believe it or not- I turned off the water as I washed. I couldn't believe the amount of water I was wasting. I haven't quite adopted their slogan - "If it's yellow let it mellow, and if it's brown, flush it down", but who knows... maybe in time!! I find myself almost becoming annoying as I continually remind myself aloud how incredibly lucky I am. I must say it and think it a hundred times a day. I hope this is something that I will never stop doing.
Back at Western Secondary things are going really well. Western is a wonderful place, and working with the students really does fulfill me. It's funny though, everytime a student complains about something trivial, all I have to do is show them a picture of my girls back in Tengeru, and explain that everyday they walk 2hrs to school without food for a brief English lesson... The complaints are usually halted pretty quickly and replaced with inquiries.
Since my return, I have had many requests to speak about my trip. I am honoured. The Windsor AIDS Awareness Committee is hosting a youth conference Nov. 30th and has asked to show a powerpoint presentation of my volunteer experience and have me as a guest speaker. My union has asked me to do a piece in the provincial newspaper. Jack Barnes, who hosts "Drummatiks" out of London Ontario, has been keeping his group informed of my work in Tengeru, and together they have raised money that will be sent to my girls. They will be having a raffle of a painting of African elephants, created by one of the group members. The proceeds from the raffle will also go to the Tengeru endeavour. I hope to visit them in London within the next few months. I have been asked by many of my own colleagues to be a guest speaker in their classrooms. I welcome any offer, because as many of you know, I love talking about Africa, and the wonderful experience I had this past August.
Alex (from CCS) has been e-mailing me. He is doing very well, and leaves today for university. I am so proud of him, and all that he has done to get this far. After our return, he sent me a story about his life. The fact that he has overcome so many obstacles to get to where he is today is very inspiring. He will be a lifelong friend, and hopefully one day come to Canada for a visit.
That is all for now. I will keep you posted as new events pop up. Thank you for reading.
Signing off~
Annie B.
(Exerpt from a song that my girls sang on my last day of placement.)
It has been 3 weeks since my return from Tanzania, and there hasn't been a single day that I haven't thought about my girls and Silvano. Readjusting to my familiar surroundings has had its pros and cons. Having such a wonderful support system has made things much easier, but there have been many sleepless nights spent wondering how I ended up to be so fortunate. It's amazing to think that in only 18 short hours things can change so much, yet still the lives of those in Tanzania go on - without me. It's strange because I remember back to when I was young, and thought that when I went to sleep, time stood still, when I was sick from school - there was no school that day, and if I was hiding and couldn't see my "chaser", then they definitely couldn't see me. It's difficult growing up, and realizing that yes, life does go on.
I have been in contact with Emmanuel from WAMATA. Unfortunately, the government has cut power in Arusha yet again. Now everyday during daylight, power is shut off, and to access any form of electricity, a generator must be used... Unfortunately most of the citizens have no access to this type of expensive accommodation.
I have placed an order to Silvano for WRAP pants, that I will be selling back home. With communications being so poor, this venture is in the trial stages. If it is a success, the money will go towards helping Silvano start his own tailoring shop. The start-up cost is $1000US, but with this initiative, Silvano and his employees, "my girls", will become self-sufficient.
Many people have asked me if I have changed through this experience. The short answer is yes, as it is impossible to experience such a different world and not be changed. During the first few showers I had back home - believe it or not- I turned off the water as I washed. I couldn't believe the amount of water I was wasting. I haven't quite adopted their slogan - "If it's yellow let it mellow, and if it's brown, flush it down", but who knows... maybe in time!! I find myself almost becoming annoying as I continually remind myself aloud how incredibly lucky I am. I must say it and think it a hundred times a day. I hope this is something that I will never stop doing.
Back at Western Secondary things are going really well. Western is a wonderful place, and working with the students really does fulfill me. It's funny though, everytime a student complains about something trivial, all I have to do is show them a picture of my girls back in Tengeru, and explain that everyday they walk 2hrs to school without food for a brief English lesson... The complaints are usually halted pretty quickly and replaced with inquiries.
Since my return, I have had many requests to speak about my trip. I am honoured. The Windsor AIDS Awareness Committee is hosting a youth conference Nov. 30th and has asked to show a powerpoint presentation of my volunteer experience and have me as a guest speaker. My union has asked me to do a piece in the provincial newspaper. Jack Barnes, who hosts "Drummatiks" out of London Ontario, has been keeping his group informed of my work in Tengeru, and together they have raised money that will be sent to my girls. They will be having a raffle of a painting of African elephants, created by one of the group members. The proceeds from the raffle will also go to the Tengeru endeavour. I hope to visit them in London within the next few months. I have been asked by many of my own colleagues to be a guest speaker in their classrooms. I welcome any offer, because as many of you know, I love talking about Africa, and the wonderful experience I had this past August.
Alex (from CCS) has been e-mailing me. He is doing very well, and leaves today for university. I am so proud of him, and all that he has done to get this far. After our return, he sent me a story about his life. The fact that he has overcome so many obstacles to get to where he is today is very inspiring. He will be a lifelong friend, and hopefully one day come to Canada for a visit.
That is all for now. I will keep you posted as new events pop up. Thank you for reading.
Signing off~
Annie B.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
Ghandi
This will be my last official post from Tanzania. I apologize for not having written in the past few days. I have been trying to tie up all loose ends, and spend time saying proper goodbyes to the wonderful people who have touched my life here in Tanzania.
As I reflect back to a month ago, I remember the anxiety I felt on my way... a true fear of the unknown. As the weeks passed, and time went on, this anxiety was replaced with many new, invigorating, strong emotions. Although I left Canada only a month ago, the many wonderful experiences, hardships and joys have made the trip feel much much longer, in a very positive way. Canada now feels like a lifetime away.
I have done my absolute best to capture in words my experiences, the people who have touched my life, and the many emotions I have encountered along the way, however I don't think I will ever be able to fully express how blessed my time has been. The life lessons have been incredible. The kindness, generosity, friendliness and love I have been shown by the people of Tengeru, who have so little, have left an eternal imprint to be stored forever in my heart. Tanzania has definitely changed my life, and left me forever inspired for whatever should come next. I don't believe my work here is finished... and really look forward to the next chapter. I also am so thankful to have learned so much about teaching. The last days with my girls were very difficult. We exchanged many tears, and it was so difficult to see the pain in their eyes, knowing we may never see each other again. These girls have taught me the meaning of loss, pain, perseverance, strength and joy. During our last few minutes, I asked the director to translate a message to the girls. I told them that to me... they exemplified honour, and that their parents although passed on, would be so very proud of them. I told them that they have each been dealt a very difficult card in life, and the fact that they continue to press on, continue to have hope, continue to smile... is absolutely amazing. I encouraged them to continue to be brave, reminded them that they are all so very special and that they will never, ever be forgotten. With tears in my eyes and love in my heart, I took each girl's face into my hands and silently said a little prayer, that she would be watched over and protected. I know the prayer was reciprocated. I hope so much that one day we will cross paths again - and thankfully the pen pal project will allow me to hold on a little longer.
Sylvano took me to see a beautiful waterfall. It was his way of thanking me for the many changes he believes I have given him. When I took him to the bank to try to set him up with a bank account, we were denied. In this area, you have to earn at least $200 per month. It pained me to learn that he made only $10. I have worked intensively with Silvano towards starting his own tailoring shop, and we have come up with an idea which I hope to share with you very soon. He told me that God would repay me for all the things I am doing... I told him that "God" already has.
I wish everyone at least once in their lives could experience at least a fraction of the joy the past month has brought to me. There is no measure to this joy, no real explanation. I think though, that it can only be experienced through the act of giving and service to others who need it most.
Many of you have written to ask if my blog will continue upon my return. I have absolutely loved this online journal, and would love to continue. There will be a follow-up journal on the progress of various projects that have been initiated over the past month. There will be follow-ups as well on the people I have met. I have passed along the blog to all of my new friends and contacts in Tanzania, and they too look forward to updates. Although the posts will be more sporadic, I look forward to keeping the blog alive - so let's just say the blog will be left with a To Be Continued... project tanzania part II:)
I can't thank you enough for reading, and really experiencing this journey with me. We have laughed together, and your supportive comments have helped me cope along the way when times have gotten tough. I continue to be amazed at how blessed I am - surrounded by such an amazing family and group of friends. I hope to have made you proud, and have done my best to let as many people here as possible know that they have the support of a wonderful group of people back in North America.
Goodbye for now... I leave at 9pm Tanzanian time and should be home around 2pm Sunday. Can't wait to talk and see you all very soon.
With gratitude and love,
Annie B.
~forever inspired~
PS Here are some pictures of my finals here in Tengeru
A picture of my girls picking out their fabrics.
A picture of Silvano and his
family
We surprised Alex before he left for University.
Kara bought him an English/Swahili dictionary,
and I gave him my backpack filled with supplies.
Ghandi
This will be my last official post from Tanzania. I apologize for not having written in the past few days. I have been trying to tie up all loose ends, and spend time saying proper goodbyes to the wonderful people who have touched my life here in Tanzania.
As I reflect back to a month ago, I remember the anxiety I felt on my way... a true fear of the unknown. As the weeks passed, and time went on, this anxiety was replaced with many new, invigorating, strong emotions. Although I left Canada only a month ago, the many wonderful experiences, hardships and joys have made the trip feel much much longer, in a very positive way. Canada now feels like a lifetime away.
I have done my absolute best to capture in words my experiences, the people who have touched my life, and the many emotions I have encountered along the way, however I don't think I will ever be able to fully express how blessed my time has been. The life lessons have been incredible. The kindness, generosity, friendliness and love I have been shown by the people of Tengeru, who have so little, have left an eternal imprint to be stored forever in my heart. Tanzania has definitely changed my life, and left me forever inspired for whatever should come next. I don't believe my work here is finished... and really look forward to the next chapter. I also am so thankful to have learned so much about teaching. The last days with my girls were very difficult. We exchanged many tears, and it was so difficult to see the pain in their eyes, knowing we may never see each other again. These girls have taught me the meaning of loss, pain, perseverance, strength and joy. During our last few minutes, I asked the director to translate a message to the girls. I told them that to me... they exemplified honour, and that their parents although passed on, would be so very proud of them. I told them that they have each been dealt a very difficult card in life, and the fact that they continue to press on, continue to have hope, continue to smile... is absolutely amazing. I encouraged them to continue to be brave, reminded them that they are all so very special and that they will never, ever be forgotten. With tears in my eyes and love in my heart, I took each girl's face into my hands and silently said a little prayer, that she would be watched over and protected. I know the prayer was reciprocated. I hope so much that one day we will cross paths again - and thankfully the pen pal project will allow me to hold on a little longer.
Sylvano took me to see a beautiful waterfall. It was his way of thanking me for the many changes he believes I have given him. When I took him to the bank to try to set him up with a bank account, we were denied. In this area, you have to earn at least $200 per month. It pained me to learn that he made only $10. I have worked intensively with Silvano towards starting his own tailoring shop, and we have come up with an idea which I hope to share with you very soon. He told me that God would repay me for all the things I am doing... I told him that "God" already has.
I wish everyone at least once in their lives could experience at least a fraction of the joy the past month has brought to me. There is no measure to this joy, no real explanation. I think though, that it can only be experienced through the act of giving and service to others who need it most.
Many of you have written to ask if my blog will continue upon my return. I have absolutely loved this online journal, and would love to continue. There will be a follow-up journal on the progress of various projects that have been initiated over the past month. There will be follow-ups as well on the people I have met. I have passed along the blog to all of my new friends and contacts in Tanzania, and they too look forward to updates. Although the posts will be more sporadic, I look forward to keeping the blog alive - so let's just say the blog will be left with a To Be Continued... project tanzania part II:)
I can't thank you enough for reading, and really experiencing this journey with me. We have laughed together, and your supportive comments have helped me cope along the way when times have gotten tough. I continue to be amazed at how blessed I am - surrounded by such an amazing family and group of friends. I hope to have made you proud, and have done my best to let as many people here as possible know that they have the support of a wonderful group of people back in North America.
Goodbye for now... I leave at 9pm Tanzanian time and should be home around 2pm Sunday. Can't wait to talk and see you all very soon.
With gratitude and love,
Annie B.
~forever inspired~
PS Here are some pictures of my finals here in Tengeru
A picture of my girls picking out their fabrics.A picture of Silvano and his
familyWe surprised Alex before he left for University.
Kara bought him an English/Swahili dictionary,
and I gave him my backpack filled with supplies.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.-William Faulkner
Only 2 full days left until my journey comes to an end. I sure am going to miss this place. In the last few days, we have enjoyed many new experiences. From the 3.5 hour church service that literally took my breath away, learning how to make Batique art, shopping for souvenirs at the Maasai market, washing my clothes in a bucket, seeing one of the girls' new desks, and best of all taking the girls shopping for their Kitenge (fabrics), this past week has been full of adventure. There are now only 5 CCS members left at the compound, so it is very quiet, and has allowed for reflection time that I am quite thankful for. Later today, Silvano is taking Kara, Lesley and myself on a hike to see a local waterfall. We are then going for Ethiopian food... can't wait! Tomorrow, I am bringing Elly to the English school to enroll her in the same class as Silvano (thanks Mom!!), and hopefully going to visit the school that Thompson (our security guard) built for the children in his community. Thanks to Fran, I have enough rulers to give to all the students.
Again, I have to thank all of you for living this adventure with me. The support you sent though your comments, phone calls and e-mails has kept me strong and healthy. I am so very fortunate in so many ways.
Here are descriptions of some of the experiences mentioned above.
Mount Meru - in the distance. Every morning Kara and I walk through a corn field on our way to placements
. This is one of the views.
No washing machines here in Arusha!!
These are the thirty 3-4 year old students at Baba Juma (father Juma's) day care. Baba Juma asks that parents pay $3.00 per month, but when they don't have the means, he never turns away a hungry child.
Don't worry... I'm not getting any crazy ideas... but these twins sure were cute!
Unloading all those condoms... thanks CANFAR!!!
The desks are in!!!
Only 2 full days left until my journey comes to an end. I sure am going to miss this place. In the last few days, we have enjoyed many new experiences. From the 3.5 hour church service that literally took my breath away, learning how to make Batique art, shopping for souvenirs at the Maasai market, washing my clothes in a bucket, seeing one of the girls' new desks, and best of all taking the girls shopping for their Kitenge (fabrics), this past week has been full of adventure. There are now only 5 CCS members left at the compound, so it is very quiet, and has allowed for reflection time that I am quite thankful for. Later today, Silvano is taking Kara, Lesley and myself on a hike to see a local waterfall. We are then going for Ethiopian food... can't wait! Tomorrow, I am bringing Elly to the English school to enroll her in the same class as Silvano (thanks Mom!!), and hopefully going to visit the school that Thompson (our security guard) built for the children in his community. Thanks to Fran, I have enough rulers to give to all the students.
Again, I have to thank all of you for living this adventure with me. The support you sent though your comments, phone calls and e-mails has kept me strong and healthy. I am so very fortunate in so many ways.
Here are descriptions of some of the experiences mentioned above.
Mount Meru - in the distance. Every morning Kara and I walk through a corn field on our way to placements
. This is one of the views.
No washing machines here in Arusha!!
These are the thirty 3-4 year old students at Baba Juma (father Juma's) day care. Baba Juma asks that parents pay $3.00 per month, but when they don't have the means, he never turns away a hungry child.
Don't worry... I'm not getting any crazy ideas... but these twins sure were cute!
Unloading all those condoms... thanks CANFAR!!!
The desks are in!!!
Monday, August 28, 2006
In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.
Mother Teresa
What a great day. One of the assignments I gave the girls last week was to write a story about their lives. I asked them to write in Swahili, and told them that I would translate each story into English. I had a hidden motive for this project. First and most importantly, it would allow me to learn more about these wonderful girls whom I have been teaching for the past 3 weeks. Secondly, after translating the stories into English, I will share them with my students at Western Secondary in the Pen Pal project.
Alex and I worked this weekend and finished all of the translation. As you can imagine, the stories all touched my heart. The common thread among all of them was their noted appreciation for the English class. After reading the stories, it was affirmed once again how much they are struggling at home and how little they have. Most of them have at least 4 siblings and hope to use their tailoring vocation to provide for their families. I have been thinking for awhile now, about how I could repay these girls for the joy they have given me during my time here in Africa. I wanted to come up with something that would bring forth their inner beauty.
Today, with the help of the director who acted as a translator, I told the girls that Wednesday, we would be going on a fieldtrip. I explained that as a group we would be going to the market where each of them could pick out their favourite kitenge (clothing fabric). After the fabric has been chosen, Silvano will take their measurements and create an outfit of their choice.
I wish I could capture in words the excitement that filled the room. They began to sing, dance around, and then they lifted me up and twirled me around the room. Although I won't be in Africa when the outfits are finished, Gervais promised that he would e-mail me a picture.
Another great update... I went today to the English school with Silvano. We were greeted by a man outside the school, and after asking him for direction, he explained that his name was "teacher Dan" a 29 year old Tanzanian who had studied abroad. He had co-founded the school and was planning to come to Canada next year to finish university in political science. He told me that he would personally teach Silvano English every night for 8 months. He even brought us to his home (which by the way was absolutely amazing) and explained that even if Silvano is late at work, he could come directly to Dan's house and have his lesson there. His enthusiasm was radiant as he explained the curriculum he would follow as well as the audio and VHS tapes he would provide Silvano for his studies at home. To boot, he told me that since Silvano would be taking classes for 8 months, he would teach him computer skills as well as provide him with resources free of charge to use with the tailoring students. Teacher Dan also told me that he would keep in touch via e-mail on a weekly basis to keep me informed of Silvano's progress... Can it get any better??
Someone or something is definitley looking over this situation, and for that I am ever so thankful. Silvano and I were pretty much skipping with excitement on our way out. I hope that this is the beginning of a beautiful partnership.
Mother Teresa
What a great day. One of the assignments I gave the girls last week was to write a story about their lives. I asked them to write in Swahili, and told them that I would translate each story into English. I had a hidden motive for this project. First and most importantly, it would allow me to learn more about these wonderful girls whom I have been teaching for the past 3 weeks. Secondly, after translating the stories into English, I will share them with my students at Western Secondary in the Pen Pal project.
Alex and I worked this weekend and finished all of the translation. As you can imagine, the stories all touched my heart. The common thread among all of them was their noted appreciation for the English class. After reading the stories, it was affirmed once again how much they are struggling at home and how little they have. Most of them have at least 4 siblings and hope to use their tailoring vocation to provide for their families. I have been thinking for awhile now, about how I could repay these girls for the joy they have given me during my time here in Africa. I wanted to come up with something that would bring forth their inner beauty.
Today, with the help of the director who acted as a translator, I told the girls that Wednesday, we would be going on a fieldtrip. I explained that as a group we would be going to the market where each of them could pick out their favourite kitenge (clothing fabric). After the fabric has been chosen, Silvano will take their measurements and create an outfit of their choice.
I wish I could capture in words the excitement that filled the room. They began to sing, dance around, and then they lifted me up and twirled me around the room. Although I won't be in Africa when the outfits are finished, Gervais promised that he would e-mail me a picture.
Another great update... I went today to the English school with Silvano. We were greeted by a man outside the school, and after asking him for direction, he explained that his name was "teacher Dan" a 29 year old Tanzanian who had studied abroad. He had co-founded the school and was planning to come to Canada next year to finish university in political science. He told me that he would personally teach Silvano English every night for 8 months. He even brought us to his home (which by the way was absolutely amazing) and explained that even if Silvano is late at work, he could come directly to Dan's house and have his lesson there. His enthusiasm was radiant as he explained the curriculum he would follow as well as the audio and VHS tapes he would provide Silvano for his studies at home. To boot, he told me that since Silvano would be taking classes for 8 months, he would teach him computer skills as well as provide him with resources free of charge to use with the tailoring students. Teacher Dan also told me that he would keep in touch via e-mail on a weekly basis to keep me informed of Silvano's progress... Can it get any better??
Someone or something is definitley looking over this situation, and for that I am ever so thankful. Silvano and I were pretty much skipping with excitement on our way out. I hope that this is the beginning of a beautiful partnership.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
I think I've found my "miracle".
I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. La
ura Ingalls Wildering
As my time winds down here in Tengeru, I had hoped to use this morning to visit one of the projects initiated by WAMATA called the Orphan Sponsorship Program. Every Sat. between 40-60 young orphans (all sponsored by WAMATA), meet to play games and discuss HIV/AIDS prevention.
I woke up early and after saying goodbye to many fellow CCS members, headed to WAMATA to meet Gervais (the director), who was going to accompany me. Upon arrival at WAMATA, I was surprised to find Silvano, the tailor hard at work on the coffee bags. I have to tell you that really, I had no idea just how much work went into each individual bag - I will explain this process later, but none the less, Silvano was at his sewing maching working away to ensure the orders of the CCS volunteers would be prepared in time.
Unfortunately, there was an executive meeting planned for this morning, so Gervais told me he would be unable to translate. I decided to go anyway. After taking the dala dala again with Gervais (this time only 7 passengers), we arrived to find no children... I was very disappointed, and Gervais explained that because it was raining and very cold, they had probably decided to stay at home. Together we walked back to WAMATA.
Since Kara and the rest of the girls went into Moshi today to do some sight-seeing, I decided it might be a good idea to stay and help Silvano with the bags. I have to mention that Silvano is making absolutely no money on this project. Everything is going towards the purchase of the desks... this makes his efforts all the more selfless.
Each coffee bag must first be hand sewn, then we apply the stamp (this was my job today). The stamp we had made to my surprise was not a traditional North American stamp that you use with an ink pad. Instead it is a screen stamp whereby you apply ink with a small piece of
plastic. Since we are using 2 colours of ink... this makes the process a whole lot harder. Today, it took me 2 hours to stamp 40 coffee bags. To be honest, I couldn't help but imagine how simple this process would be back home... but eventually began to enjoy the work, realizing that this was my chance to actually experience firsthand the type of work that the Tanzanian people are accustomed to. After the stamps are put on the bags, Silvano then has to attach a pull string, that he insisted be stitched into the bag. It's funny because after the 2 hours I actually felt a weird attachment to the little bags, and appreciated the fact that they were each unique - with their own minor imperfections. To think - Silvano had already made 100 bags, without ever complaining of the work that was involved. He did it on his own time, without pay - all to support the desk project. In that moment, I decided that Silvano was probably the hardest worker I had ever encountered.
While we were working, Silvano spoke to me in broken English about his country. He told me that unfortunately his father did not have the means to have him learn English, and that since he was supporting his children, he was unable to pay the $10.00 per month to attend the English school in Arusha. This is when I decided that in sponsoring Silvano's English courses, which would last 8 months, I would not only have an opportunity to repay him for his hard work, but I would be investing in a future teacher for the tailoring students. Up until this time, I had been so worried about the education program. Since the program can only continue if there is a volunteer willing to teach English, I was very concerned about its future. I asked Silvano if he could become the teacher for the girls, should he have the chance to learn English. Since he works with them everyday teaching them tailoring, and obviously has a vested interested in their wellbeing, he told me that he would love to become their English teacher.
With more tears in my eyes, I asked Silvano if he would accompany me into town next week to visit the English school. I told him, if he agreed, I would be his sponsor. I asked in return for his word that he would use what he learns to teach the girls - who are equally eager to learn. I don't like getting emotional in these blogs, but I want you to know that the feeling I experienced in that moment, seeing the joy and excitement in his eyes, was something I would say is not explainable in words. If miracles do exist... I would definitely say that this was mine.
I am so thankful for this experience.
I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. La
ura Ingalls WilderingAs my time winds down here in Tengeru, I had hoped to use this morning to visit one of the projects initiated by WAMATA called the Orphan Sponsorship Program. Every Sat. between 40-60 young orphans (all sponsored by WAMATA), meet to play games and discuss HIV/AIDS prevention.
I woke up early and after saying goodbye to many fellow CCS members, headed to WAMATA to meet Gervais (the director), who was going to accompany me. Upon arrival at WAMATA, I was surprised to find Silvano, the tailor hard at work on the coffee bags. I have to tell you that really, I had no idea just how much work went into each individual bag - I will explain this process later, but none the less, Silvano was at his sewing maching working away to ensure the orders of the CCS volunteers would be prepared in time.
Unfortunately, there was an executive meeting planned for this morning, so Gervais told me he would be unable to translate. I decided to go anyway. After taking the dala dala again with Gervais (this time only 7 passengers), we arrived to find no children... I was very disappointed, and Gervais explained that because it was raining and very cold, they had probably decided to stay at home. Together we walked back to WAMATA.
Since Kara and the rest of the girls went into Moshi today to do some sight-seeing, I decided it might be a good idea to stay and help Silvano with the bags. I have to mention that Silvano is making absolutely no money on this project. Everything is going towards the purchase of the desks... this makes his efforts all the more selfless.
Each coffee bag must first be hand sewn, then we apply the stamp (this was my job today). The stamp we had made to my surprise was not a traditional North American stamp that you use with an ink pad. Instead it is a screen stamp whereby you apply ink with a small piece of
plastic. Since we are using 2 colours of ink... this makes the process a whole lot harder. Today, it took me 2 hours to stamp 40 coffee bags. To be honest, I couldn't help but imagine how simple this process would be back home... but eventually began to enjoy the work, realizing that this was my chance to actually experience firsthand the type of work that the Tanzanian people are accustomed to. After the stamps are put on the bags, Silvano then has to attach a pull string, that he insisted be stitched into the bag. It's funny because after the 2 hours I actually felt a weird attachment to the little bags, and appreciated the fact that they were each unique - with their own minor imperfections. To think - Silvano had already made 100 bags, without ever complaining of the work that was involved. He did it on his own time, without pay - all to support the desk project. In that moment, I decided that Silvano was probably the hardest worker I had ever encountered.While we were working, Silvano spoke to me in broken English about his country. He told me that unfortunately his father did not have the means to have him learn English, and that since he was supporting his children, he was unable to pay the $10.00 per month to attend the English school in Arusha. This is when I decided that in sponsoring Silvano's English courses, which would last 8 months, I would not only have an opportunity to repay him for his hard work, but I would be investing in a future teacher for the tailoring students. Up until this time, I had been so worried about the education program. Since the program can only continue if there is a volunteer willing to teach English, I was very concerned about its future. I asked Silvano if he could become the teacher for the girls, should he have the chance to learn English. Since he works with them everyday teaching them tailoring, and obviously has a vested interested in their wellbeing, he told me that he would love to become their English teacher.
With more tears in my eyes, I asked Silvano if he would accompany me into town next week to visit the English school. I told him, if he agreed, I would be his sponsor. I asked in return for his word that he would use what he learns to teach the girls - who are equally eager to learn. I don't like getting emotional in these blogs, but I want you to know that the feeling I experienced in that moment, seeing the joy and excitement in his eyes, was something I would say is not explainable in words. If miracles do exist... I would definitely say that this was mine.
I am so thankful for this experience.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Memories of Zanzibar~
I haven't yet had a chance to write about our wonderful trip to Zanzibar this past weekend. Although it was very relaxing, it was also quite informative - and a true learning experience.
Our group left very early - 6:00am for the Kilimanjaro airport.
I really don't think many of you would believe me if I told you about the airport - but even in this small place, we had to pack any liquid-type product in cargo.
At the airport, we were greeted by Omar - our guide for the weekend. He took us to our 3 star hotel. Let's just say it had a tremendous amount of "character." Kara and I were apparently the lucky ones, because we ended up with one of the nicest rooms, and even mosquito nets on our beds. This might seem ridiculous in North America, but in Africa, having a mosquito net means an extra sense of security from whatever creatures may be hoping to cuddle up with you that night.
I might begin by explaining that Zanzibar is a small island off the east coast of Tanzania
across the Indian Ocean. The island is known for it's beautiful beaches, amazing aquatic life, and expecially history of slavery.
During our first tour, Omar explained a bit about the history of Zanzibar, and we saw the Soltan's former castle where he kept 99 women. Everyday he would visit the castle and have the women jump naked from the balcony into a pond below. He would choose the one he liked the best for further "activities" that day. Later he would return to his wife at another castle called the House of Wonders. Omar also brought us on a spice tour. Zanzibar is also known for growing many spices, and it was very interesting to learn the medicinal uses of the spices we so commonly use at home. I had no idea so much work went into their cultivation.
The next day, we went for a boat ride. Many members of our group swam with the dolphins, but I have to admit being too afraid of being hit by the many make-shift boats in the process.
Later that night, we went to an amazaing restaurant on the beach, and devoured a seafood buffet. After dinner, we all learned to dance - African style- from the locals around a fire, to the beat of homemade drums. Here is a picture of us preparing for our seafood feast.
The final day, we did a tour of the former slave market and learned of the great work of Dr. Livingston. - Dr. Livingston I presume...- On his search for the source of the Nile, Dr. Livingston bargained with government officials and played a major role in the closing of the slave market. Unfortunately, one month before the market was closed, he died of malaria. A memorial church was erected in his memory. Here is a picture of Omar explaining how as many as 75 slaves were kept in a basement cell so small that I felt sick even being there with only 14 people. The history was so very interesting, but to think that people were treated so barbarically, is almost uncomprehendable.
As we prepared for return, it was not hard to see that the airport in Zanzibar was even more primitive than the one in Arusha. There were pretty much no security checks and our plane was 1.5 hours late apparently due to some technical difficulties... I think I must have asked a million questions to ensure it would be safe- only hoping for the best. Thanks to Mike and Jen, the game CatchPhrase saved the day, and held us over in the airport during our long worrisome wait.
There were so many more memories and pictures of Zanzibar, that I will save until I come home. This is definitely a place worth visiting... but it's funny, after the weekend I was very ready to return home - to CCS.
A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer; it sings because it has a song.
-Maya Angelou
Greetings From Tengeru,
Just a quick e-mail today. Things here are wonderful. I washed my clothes last night in a bucket... what an interesting process that was!
The majority of my group is getting ready to head back to North America, so the feeling around CCS is a little gloomy, but I think we all know that we will keep in touch - and maybe even be part of future projects together??
A man came into my class today to measure for the desks. I wish I could have captured the girls' faces when they were told they would be given a personal desk and that they were a big part in making this happen through their sewing of the coffee bags. I truly believe that they felt empowered, and hope that this is a feeling that will continue to grow and expand within them for the rest of their precious lives.
Talk to everyone soon... and Adeeb, the wildlife photos are on their way... unfortunately no Cheetah!!
-Maya Angelou
Greetings From Tengeru,
Just a quick e-mail today. Things here are wonderful. I washed my clothes last night in a bucket... what an interesting process that was!
The majority of my group is getting ready to head back to North America, so the feeling around CCS is a little gloomy, but I think we all know that we will keep in touch - and maybe even be part of future projects together??
A man came into my class today to measure for the desks. I wish I could have captured the girls' faces when they were told they would be given a personal desk and that they were a big part in making this happen through their sewing of the coffee bags. I truly believe that they felt empowered, and hope that this is a feeling that will continue to grow and expand within them for the rest of their precious lives.
Talk to everyone soon... and Adeeb, the wildlife photos are on their way... unfortunately no Cheetah!!
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
In a gentile way, you can shake the world.
Ghandi
Hi All,
Not too many updates for today, except one experience that happened to Kara and I last night that I want to share with you so that you are better able to understand the good nature of some the Tanzanian people I now call my friends. Alex, a young man (17 years) I first met when I arrived, has been helping me diligently to translate Swahili to English every night as I prepare my lessons for the next day. Alex is working at CCS as he has been accepted into University, but still needs to generate funds for his schooling. I also posted a picture of him a few blogs back. Last night, during out translating session, Alex asked me if my favourite animal was a zebra. A little confused by the question, I answered yes. He proceeded to get up, and go to a closet near where we were working. He came back with a beautiful statue/sculpure of a zebra and one of a giraffe. He told me that he had purchased the zebra for me and the giraffe for Kara. I was shocked... this young boy, who works so hard everyday at CCS and helps me everynight had bought me a gift that I am sure was way out of his price range. With major tears in my eyes, I accepted. I am looking forward to an idea, that will come to me, on how I will be able to help Alex as he prepares for university.
I thought of an idea today that I hope will bring my students at Western and my students at WAMATA together. For a long time now, the members of the student council at WSS have asked me to set up a penpal project. Before I leave I will take a picture of all of the orphans I am teaching. Back at Western, I will ask all students interested to select a girl that will become their pen pal. I have arranged with the director to have him translate their letters into English as part of the education program. I really hope that this project is successful as it will also allow me to keep track of my girls at WAMATA.
Thank you for your continued comments, and yes Pam, this is going to be a very very difficult place to leave. With every passing day, my love for Arusha and its people grows stronger and stronger.
Ghandi
Hi All,
Not too many updates for today, except one experience that happened to Kara and I last night that I want to share with you so that you are better able to understand the good nature of some the Tanzanian people I now call my friends. Alex, a young man (17 years) I first met when I arrived, has been helping me diligently to translate Swahili to English every night as I prepare my lessons for the next day. Alex is working at CCS as he has been accepted into University, but still needs to generate funds for his schooling. I also posted a picture of him a few blogs back. Last night, during out translating session, Alex asked me if my favourite animal was a zebra. A little confused by the question, I answered yes. He proceeded to get up, and go to a closet near where we were working. He came back with a beautiful statue/sculpure of a zebra and one of a giraffe. He told me that he had purchased the zebra for me and the giraffe for Kara. I was shocked... this young boy, who works so hard everyday at CCS and helps me everynight had bought me a gift that I am sure was way out of his price range. With major tears in my eyes, I accepted. I am looking forward to an idea, that will come to me, on how I will be able to help Alex as he prepares for university.
I thought of an idea today that I hope will bring my students at Western and my students at WAMATA together. For a long time now, the members of the student council at WSS have asked me to set up a penpal project. Before I leave I will take a picture of all of the orphans I am teaching. Back at Western, I will ask all students interested to select a girl that will become their pen pal. I have arranged with the director to have him translate their letters into English as part of the education program. I really hope that this project is successful as it will also allow me to keep track of my girls at WAMATA.
Thank you for your continued comments, and yes Pam, this is going to be a very very difficult place to leave. With every passing day, my love for Arusha and its people grows stronger and stronger.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
I Survived The DALA DALA
This is my second entry today, but since there are "important" government people here in Tengeru, the power will not be shut off today... Interesting.
So I have officially survived the dala dala. For those of you who may not be familiar with this term, a dala dala is a mini bus that acts as a taxi in Tanzania. Typically in North America, this mini bus would fit 8 people comfortably - maybe even nine, but in Tanzania this would be unheard of. I want to be clear that I had no intention of ever ever taking this means of transportation, as it really did send chills down my spine, but today, I did it. Silvano - the tailor asked me to accompany him into town to create a WAMATA stamp for the coffee bags. He told me we would be taking the dala dala. It started out with 23 people and as we proceeded at each stop, more and more got on... in the end 27 bodies were squished like sardines into this vehicle. The most interesting part was the Sean Paul music playing over the loud speaker. I was amazed... a little freaked out... but proud that I can now say that I have survived this crazy experience... in all honesty though, I don't think I'll ever do it again:)
Thanks for staying with me!! I wanted to add a picture of some of the small children who run up to me every single day screaming "MZUNGU" (white person). They run up to me, grab my hand and walk with me until
I reach my destination. As you can see in the picture, I have fallen in love with every single one of them!
One more thing... sorry for being so scattered, but I also wanted to post a picture of our experience last night. We visited Pete O'Neil's compound. He was a former Black Panther who claims he was exiled from the US due to faulty allegations.
He is a very interesting man, and independently of his past, is now doing a lot to help the people in his village. He has even begun installing solar panels in over 100 houses to provide power.
This is my second entry today, but since there are "important" government people here in Tengeru, the power will not be shut off today... Interesting.
So I have officially survived the dala dala. For those of you who may not be familiar with this term, a dala dala is a mini bus that acts as a taxi in Tanzania. Typically in North America, this mini bus would fit 8 people comfortably - maybe even nine, but in Tanzania this would be unheard of. I want to be clear that I had no intention of ever ever taking this means of transportation, as it really did send chills down my spine, but today, I did it. Silvano - the tailor asked me to accompany him into town to create a WAMATA stamp for the coffee bags. He told me we would be taking the dala dala. It started out with 23 people and as we proceeded at each stop, more and more got on... in the end 27 bodies were squished like sardines into this vehicle. The most interesting part was the Sean Paul music playing over the loud speaker. I was amazed... a little freaked out... but proud that I can now say that I have survived this crazy experience... in all honesty though, I don't think I'll ever do it again:)
Thanks for staying with me!! I wanted to add a picture of some of the small children who run up to me every single day screaming "MZUNGU" (white person). They run up to me, grab my hand and walk with me until
I reach my destination. As you can see in the picture, I have fallen in love with every single one of them!One more thing... sorry for being so scattered, but I also wanted to post a picture of our experience last night. We visited Pete O'Neil's compound. He was a former Black Panther who claims he was exiled from the US due to faulty allegations.
He is a very interesting man, and independently of his past, is now doing a lot to help the people in his village. He has even begun installing solar panels in over 100 houses to provide power.I also wanted to let you all know that I will not be taking orders for coffee, but will be bringing some back to sell at Ten Thousand Villages, and should it be successful... hopefully have WAMATA coffee as one of the products they will sell. My girls are very happy, very beautiful, and slowly we are learning a lot from each other.
Nana - I wore your old pant/skirt to work today... everyone loved it...
Pam - everyone is asking about the angel - it continues to keep me safe and keep you with me.
Jamie and Jen - I can't thank you enough for the toothbrushes and toothpaste. I have brought them on many home visits, and the people are so very thankful.
Brad - I am giving away many of the Canadian flags... the children and adults love them, and tell me that they will serve as reminders of my smile...
Marianne - your goodies and plastic bags are coming in very very handy!
Fran - the rulers and pens have been given to 2 local non-profit schools
Thank you all!!
There are no shortcuts to any place worth going.
Beverly Sills
The Politics of Tanzania
As a member of Cross Cultural Solutions, every night, we have a lesson on a different aspect of Tanzania. A few nights ago, the topic was politics. Since Zik was our teacher, of course it was very interesting and informative. I would like to share some of what I have learned with you. Hopefully you will be as hopeful as I am about the progress of this government, and although it does have a very long way to go, it is much further along than I had ever expected.
Most Tanzanians love the local government, it is a multi-party democratic party "in theory". There are some members of parliament from opposition parties. After their independence in 1964, long range plans were developed for Tanzania to combat the 4 main enemies declared by the president. I will explain these "enemies".
1. Ignorance - in 1964, only 13% of the population of Tanzania were literate. It was then decided that primary schools would be built in each village and primary education would be free of charge to children from the age of 7 until secondary school. Government grants would be given to those who chose to continue on to secondary school should they have the grades to be accepted. What I found from experience was that this is a very tricky thing because most children who are very poor like the girls of WAMATA, never make the grade. Since they are orphans, or have parents dying of AIDS, they missed primary school frequently and were subsequently "kicked out" of the education system. Once you are out, you are never allowed back into public schooling and must find an organization like WAMATA if you want to continue on.
They also built the first university in Dar Es Salaam - the capital
2. Disease- leprosy, TB, Small Pox are now a thing of the past. Inoculations were provided for all of them. Mosquitoes are now a major concern. The government has been working with citizens to change the architecture of houses to incorporate more make-shift windows so that mosquitoes can be seen.
Maternity check-ups are provided for all women.
Every family who brings in a picture and receives a certificate can receive free health care... this one I really do question!
3. Poverty- anyone 7 years and younger must attend school. It was also a dream that by the year 2000, everyone in Tanzania would have clean drinking water... this has not yet happened, but is in the works. At one point in time Tanzanians sold their children for money... so really they have come a long way.
4. Corruption- as a result of those in charge who misuse their power.
There are now organizations like the one Kara is working at that help provide loans to Tanzanians who want to get off their feet. All Tanzanians who work still have to have their own businesses just to stay afloat - this is due to corruption and is still a MAJOR problem.
As I was laying in my mosquito net last night, I was thinking about all I have learned and experienced to date in this beautiful country. Things are so very different. They have no infrastructure, garbage is burned every Wednesday, and people throw their trash right on the ground... everything smells a little different... everything is very very slow... everything for these people is difficult... everything... but still they move forward - still they work tirelessly every single day, no matter how insignificant their job may be, they do it with pride. For that I commend them, and really have begun to appreciate and respect these differences.
Beverly Sills
The Politics of Tanzania
As a member of Cross Cultural Solutions, every night, we have a lesson on a different aspect of Tanzania. A few nights ago, the topic was politics. Since Zik was our teacher, of course it was very interesting and informative. I would like to share some of what I have learned with you. Hopefully you will be as hopeful as I am about the progress of this government, and although it does have a very long way to go, it is much further along than I had ever expected.
Most Tanzanians love the local government, it is a multi-party democratic party "in theory". There are some members of parliament from opposition parties. After their independence in 1964, long range plans were developed for Tanzania to combat the 4 main enemies declared by the president. I will explain these "enemies".
1. Ignorance - in 1964, only 13% of the population of Tanzania were literate. It was then decided that primary schools would be built in each village and primary education would be free of charge to children from the age of 7 until secondary school. Government grants would be given to those who chose to continue on to secondary school should they have the grades to be accepted. What I found from experience was that this is a very tricky thing because most children who are very poor like the girls of WAMATA, never make the grade. Since they are orphans, or have parents dying of AIDS, they missed primary school frequently and were subsequently "kicked out" of the education system. Once you are out, you are never allowed back into public schooling and must find an organization like WAMATA if you want to continue on.
They also built the first university in Dar Es Salaam - the capital
2. Disease- leprosy, TB, Small Pox are now a thing of the past. Inoculations were provided for all of them. Mosquitoes are now a major concern. The government has been working with citizens to change the architecture of houses to incorporate more make-shift windows so that mosquitoes can be seen.
Maternity check-ups are provided for all women.
Every family who brings in a picture and receives a certificate can receive free health care... this one I really do question!
3. Poverty- anyone 7 years and younger must attend school. It was also a dream that by the year 2000, everyone in Tanzania would have clean drinking water... this has not yet happened, but is in the works. At one point in time Tanzanians sold their children for money... so really they have come a long way.
4. Corruption- as a result of those in charge who misuse their power.
There are now organizations like the one Kara is working at that help provide loans to Tanzanians who want to get off their feet. All Tanzanians who work still have to have their own businesses just to stay afloat - this is due to corruption and is still a MAJOR problem.
As I was laying in my mosquito net last night, I was thinking about all I have learned and experienced to date in this beautiful country. Things are so very different. They have no infrastructure, garbage is burned every Wednesday, and people throw their trash right on the ground... everything smells a little different... everything is very very slow... everything for these people is difficult... everything... but still they move forward - still they work tirelessly every single day, no matter how insignificant their job may be, they do it with pride. For that I commend them, and really have begun to appreciate and respect these differences.
Monday, August 21, 2006
And I think to myself... what a wonderful world!!
Hello Everyone,
I have returned from a wonderful weekend in Zanzibar. Before I begin telling you about this marvelous island, I ask that you please see my last post, as I hope that pictures have been added to help you better visualize what I am experiencing.
Things at WAMATA are great. I had a meeting with Emanual (the director) today, and we decided that all proceeds made from the coffee will go towards bettering the education for the girls. The first addition will be to purchase each girl a desk!! This will happen before I go, so I will definitely post a picture. I can't wait to see their faces. Instead of writing on their legs, they will actually have a hard surface. Also I am hoping to work with one of the volunteers who is bilingual in Swahili/English to outline a curriculum with which he can continue when I am gone. I am so excited about how well things are going here. Spirits are up, very high, and I have written Ten Thousand Villages to see if when I return to Canada, we will be able to sell WAMATA coffee at the stores... if it's a go, this will be very very good for the organization.
I had an interesting thing happen to me on Friday, that might help you understand how desperate people are here for help. Gervais, one of the directors, called me into his office to ask if I could help him with a problem. I was introduced to Gertrude, a woman who had contracted HIV and was quite weak. She was asking for money to go to school, it would cost $15.00 per month. It was a wonderful opportunity. Although I declined the offer to help fund her schooling, I had a great talk with her about coming together as a group of women who are all dealing with HIV/AIDS, and coming up with a creative idea by which they could generate income. I told her that while it may be easy for me to pay for her next 3 months of schooling, this would not be sustainable, and in November, she would have to find another sponsor. I encouraged her to empower herself and use her talents to fund her schooling. I was quite surprised at her reaction. She thanked me, and with tears in her eyes, agreed. We set up a meeting this past Saturday with the director, to have the women of WAMATA who are HIV/AIDS positive come together to pool their talents and come up with a sustainable idea. They are planning on meeting very soon with a local small loan company to begin generating income. I am so proud of these women, and can't wait to see the outcome.
Thanks again for travelling with me, for your comments and ongoing support.
Love you all,
Annie B.
PS I will tell you all about Zanzibar in the next entry, as I have 3 minutes and counting until things shut down.
Hello Everyone,
I have returned from a wonderful weekend in Zanzibar. Before I begin telling you about this marvelous island, I ask that you please see my last post, as I hope that pictures have been added to help you better visualize what I am experiencing.
Things at WAMATA are great. I had a meeting with Emanual (the director) today, and we decided that all proceeds made from the coffee will go towards bettering the education for the girls. The first addition will be to purchase each girl a desk!! This will happen before I go, so I will definitely post a picture. I can't wait to see their faces. Instead of writing on their legs, they will actually have a hard surface. Also I am hoping to work with one of the volunteers who is bilingual in Swahili/English to outline a curriculum with which he can continue when I am gone. I am so excited about how well things are going here. Spirits are up, very high, and I have written Ten Thousand Villages to see if when I return to Canada, we will be able to sell WAMATA coffee at the stores... if it's a go, this will be very very good for the organization.
I had an interesting thing happen to me on Friday, that might help you understand how desperate people are here for help. Gervais, one of the directors, called me into his office to ask if I could help him with a problem. I was introduced to Gertrude, a woman who had contracted HIV and was quite weak. She was asking for money to go to school, it would cost $15.00 per month. It was a wonderful opportunity. Although I declined the offer to help fund her schooling, I had a great talk with her about coming together as a group of women who are all dealing with HIV/AIDS, and coming up with a creative idea by which they could generate income. I told her that while it may be easy for me to pay for her next 3 months of schooling, this would not be sustainable, and in November, she would have to find another sponsor. I encouraged her to empower herself and use her talents to fund her schooling. I was quite surprised at her reaction. She thanked me, and with tears in her eyes, agreed. We set up a meeting this past Saturday with the director, to have the women of WAMATA who are HIV/AIDS positive come together to pool their talents and come up with a sustainable idea. They are planning on meeting very soon with a local small loan company to begin generating income. I am so proud of these women, and can't wait to see the outcome.
Thanks again for travelling with me, for your comments and ongoing support.
Love you all,
Annie B.
PS I will tell you all about Zanzibar in the next entry, as I have 3 minutes and counting until things shut down.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Hope is like a road in the country; there wasn't ever a road, but when many people walk on it, the road comes into existence.
Hello Everyone,
It is 5:45 pm here in Tengeru. Things have been going really well, and CCS keeps us quite busy with Swahili lessons and many other educational sessions every night. We just came back from the Rwandan Tribunals. They were in "closed court" today, but we were invited to watch a movie and return Monday. The set-up for the tribunals is amazing (for Arusha). I was very surprised to see hand dryers and real toilets there as well.
Yesterday, we had a full day in Moshi, a town at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. We began by trecking down a very steep mountain to the Nzoro waterfall. At times, I must admit being quite nervous, as one wrong step could have led to serious trouble... good thing we had those walking sticks:) The hike was well worthwhile, and the waterfall was incredibly beautiful.
It was so funny to see my entire group do the treck together. Pamela thought she might have to be the first person ever airlifted out. She made it though... and we were all very proud of her.
Later, one of our instructors/program leaders Zik took us through a traditional Chagga house. Zik is an amazing man for whom I have developed a lot of respect. He has really brought a lot to this experience with his explanations on Tanzanian politics, Swahili lessons and all of his answers to my many questions about why things are the way they are here in Arusha. Zik also reminds me a lot of my Papa, so I always seem to feel secure in his presence.
Ok back to the Chagga house. It looks a lot like a furry teepee from the outside, and we came to find out that this was actually a house that is currently inhabited - amazing that in the 21st century people are still living in these types of houses. Zik explained that although the house was quite small, every room had a very specific function. Women and men live in separate houses after the age of 7. There is a fire pit right in the house for cooking even though the walls are made of wood. Cattle sleep in the house at night. I was very impressed at how functional every small space was in the small house, and hope to adapt that same philosophy to 1110 Michigan Ave:)
It was also interesting to learn that women breast feed all children until the age of 4. Zik himself had grown up in one of these houses, and in the Chagga tribe, it is essential for boys to become self sufficient by the age of 10. I was also amazed to learn that Zik's grandmother lived until the age of 130... what are we doing wrong back home??
He brought us outside to a small clearing amid the trees. This was where all ceremonial traditions were held. Zik explained that when someone in the tribe was experiencing bad luck, they would call on the spirits and then pull a leaf out of the tree to determine who was the cause of the problem. Later they would sacrifice a goat, cut up the organs to ensure that the appropriate organs were given to either their mother, father, or other family member - everyone received a specific organ. After this procedure, they would tie up the leaf and ask for forgiveness.... AMAZING... I was so happy to learn about how Zik had been raised and it was obvious that he was very happy to share his tales with us.
On the way home from Moshi - about an hour drive, I was surprised to see some of my girls (students) walking home. What surprised me most was that they were still walking at 7:00 when school was let out at 5:00. I just assumed that they were going to a friend's house... at least that is what I hoped. Today, the director told me that in fact they were walking home from school, and that some of the girls live at least a 1 1/2 hour walk away. That means that they walk in total 3 hours to and from school every single day. I again was left with tears in my eyes, as I am more "fueled" than ever to do the most I can to plant the seed for sustainable education for these girls. I began today by purchasing writing books, pens and pencils for the 20 girls I teach. Thanks to all of your donations and OSSTF, I hope also to do a lot more. Our coffee bags have been made and I have a schedued meeting with the director Monday to discuss the sustainability of this initiative. I will let you know then if it will be possible to order coffee from Canada. If so I can assure you that the quality will be amazing.
Thank you for your continued support, and I feel that I am walking among many angels here in Tanzania.
I am tutoring this young lady, Elly, in the evenings. She works for CCS.
Until next time...
Hello Everyone,
It is 5:45 pm here in Tengeru. Things have been going really well, and CCS keeps us quite busy with Swahili lessons and many other educational sessions every night. We just came back from the Rwandan Tribunals. They were in "closed court" today, but we were invited to watch a movie and return Monday. The set-up for the tribunals is amazing (for Arusha). I was very surprised to see hand dryers and real toilets there as well.
Yesterday, we had a full day in Moshi, a town at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. We began by trecking down a very steep mountain to the Nzoro waterfall. At times, I must admit being quite nervous, as one wrong step could have led to serious trouble... good thing we had those walking sticks:) The hike was well worthwhile, and the waterfall was incredibly beautiful.
It was so funny to see my entire group do the treck together. Pamela thought she might have to be the first person ever airlifted out. She made it though... and we were all very proud of her.
Later, one of our instructors/program leaders Zik took us through a traditional Chagga house. Zik is an amazing man for whom I have developed a lot of respect. He has really brought a lot to this experience with his explanations on Tanzanian politics, Swahili lessons and all of his answers to my many questions about why things are the way they are here in Arusha. Zik also reminds me a lot of my Papa, so I always seem to feel secure in his presence.
Ok back to the Chagga house. It looks a lot like a furry teepee from the outside, and we came to find out that this was actually a house that is currently inhabited - amazing that in the 21st century people are still living in these types of houses. Zik explained that although the house was quite small, every room had a very specific function. Women and men live in separate houses after the age of 7. There is a fire pit right in the house for cooking even though the walls are made of wood. Cattle sleep in the house at night. I was very impressed at how functional every small space was in the small house, and hope to adapt that same philosophy to 1110 Michigan Ave:)
It was also interesting to learn that women breast feed all children until the age of 4. Zik himself had grown up in one of these houses, and in the Chagga tribe, it is essential for boys to become self sufficient by the age of 10. I was also amazed to learn that Zik's grandmother lived until the age of 130... what are we doing wrong back home??He brought us outside to a small clearing amid the trees. This was where all ceremonial traditions were held. Zik explained that when someone in the tribe was experiencing bad luck, they would call on the spirits and then pull a leaf out of the tree to determine who was the cause of the problem. Later they would sacrifice a goat, cut up the organs to ensure that the appropriate organs were given to either their mother, father, or other family member - everyone received a specific organ. After this procedure, they would tie up the leaf and ask for forgiveness.... AMAZING... I was so happy to learn about how Zik had been raised and it was obvious that he was very happy to share his tales with us.
On the way home from Moshi - about an hour drive, I was surprised to see some of my girls (students) walking home. What surprised me most was that they were still walking at 7:00 when school was let out at 5:00. I just assumed that they were going to a friend's house... at least that is what I hoped. Today, the director told me that in fact they were walking home from school, and that some of the girls live at least a 1 1/2 hour walk away. That means that they walk in total 3 hours to and from school every single day. I again was left with tears in my eyes, as I am more "fueled" than ever to do the most I can to plant the seed for sustainable education for these girls. I began today by purchasing writing books, pens and pencils for the 20 girls I teach. Thanks to all of your donations and OSSTF, I hope also to do a lot more. Our coffee bags have been made and I have a schedued meeting with the director Monday to discuss the sustainability of this initiative. I will let you know then if it will be possible to order coffee from Canada. If so I can assure you that the quality will be amazing.
Thank you for your continued support, and I feel that I am walking among many angels here in Tanzania.
I am tutoring this young lady, Elly, in the evenings. She works for CCS.
Until next time...
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Hello Everyone,
Today is Tuesday Aug. 15th.
Teaching is going so incredibly well. I have begun working with a translator, a young boy named Alex.(see picture#1) I have been using many hand-drawn pictures and sentences in both Kswahili and English to get the girls to understand. So far we already have 100 coffee bags ordered, so everyone at WAMATA is thrilled. I will ask Silvano (the tailor) about placing orders from Canada and get back to you if you are interested... I'm not sure he will be able to do it in time, but it sure would be nice:)
I experienced my first home visit today. I went with 2 young men for a 2.5 hour hike through the mountains to 2 very poor homes where the mothers are both dying of AIDS. The families are so poor that they are unable to get into town, so volunteers from WAMATA go out to visit them (see picture#2.)
At the first house the woman had been taken to the hospital, so I only spoke with her father. You can see him in the picture. I thought he was very old, but found out through translation that he was only 42 years old. They both asked me how they could help to prolong the lives of those living with HIV/AIDS... that was a difficult question considering it was very obvious they didn't have much time left. We did have a discussion about health, nutrition and sanitary habits. I also encouraged them to keep a scrapbook for their children so that they could be remembered and leave behind advice they want their children to follow. (see picture #3 ~ my second home visit)
I want all of you to know that I talked to both families about how many people back in Canada are sending their love, and I told them that although you couldn't be here in body, you were definitely with them in spirit. I captured their smiles in the pictures included.
Thank you so much for your support... it is going a very long way.
Until next time,
Annie... ~Living Simply~
Monday, August 14, 2006
Conditions are never right. People who delay action until all factors are favorable are the kind who do nothing.
William Feather
Hello Everyone,
Once again I have to thank you for your comments. It is so wonderful to hear that you are following this journey, and your empathy reminds me of what an amazing family and group of friends I have.
We returned from safari yesterday. I don't think I've ever been so dirty. Actually, my hair had so much dust that it stood up on its own. The experience in itself was amazing. It was really great to get away for awhile. We visited the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. We took a 4x4 that had a pop off roof, so as you can imagine, seeing the animals was both exciting and frightening (at times). We camped both nights, and even ate under the stars. The most interesting part was the armed guard that circulated our camp... We saw elephants, giraffes, lions, many types of monkeys, gazelles etc. etc. It's funny though, how excited I was to come "home" to have a bucket shower. I think I'm getting used to this :)
I have made some wonderful friends in the short time that I've been here. We have bonded quickly as a result of the situation we're experiencing together - I think my girls at Western will understand. One volunteer's name is Pam - a retired principal from Pennsylvania. She is absolutely hilarious. Everynight before bed, Pam puts her hair in rollers and gets in her silk PJs. Suprisingly enough Kara and I convinced her to come with us on safari along with 7 others. She was such a trooper, and although she rolled her hair every night, and kept her Tiffany bracelet on the entire time... she brought a great sense of comic relief to our safari.
During placement today, I taught the girls tailoring vocab. They really liked the pictures that went along with the words. I was working with the 2nd group of girls who are as equally eager to learn as the first group. Although the technology at WAMATA is very very old, I am going to try to create a website. I will work on an HIV/AIDS pamphlet, and we already have orders coming in for the coffee project. The conditions for using any Microsoft Office program are so different, but I'm going to make it happen. I talked with Emanual (one of the program leaders) today, in detail about using the revenue from our fundraising to purchase a desk and school supplies for the girls.
Tomorrow I am going on my first home visit. We will be walking 3km to the home of a woman and her 2 daughters who have HIV/AIDS. I was asked to bring sugar, and flour for bread as a gift.
This afternoon after lunch we have a lesson on the Tanzanian Education System, which should be very interesting.
At night I have been working with Elly - a house keeper at CCS- on her English. I will post a picture of her tomorrow as she holds a special place in my heart.
Time is almost up... so I will write again soon.
"Our Bucket Shower"
"Our Beds"
"Our Room"
PS Congratulations Sam and Rob on your wedding. I'm sure it was absolutely beautiful, and I wish I could have been there. Can't wait to see the pictures :)
William Feather
Hello Everyone,
Once again I have to thank you for your comments. It is so wonderful to hear that you are following this journey, and your empathy reminds me of what an amazing family and group of friends I have.
We returned from safari yesterday. I don't think I've ever been so dirty. Actually, my hair had so much dust that it stood up on its own. The experience in itself was amazing. It was really great to get away for awhile. We visited the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. We took a 4x4 that had a pop off roof, so as you can imagine, seeing the animals was both exciting and frightening (at times). We camped both nights, and even ate under the stars. The most interesting part was the armed guard that circulated our camp... We saw elephants, giraffes, lions, many types of monkeys, gazelles etc. etc. It's funny though, how excited I was to come "home" to have a bucket shower. I think I'm getting used to this :)
I have made some wonderful friends in the short time that I've been here. We have bonded quickly as a result of the situation we're experiencing together - I think my girls at Western will understand. One volunteer's name is Pam - a retired principal from Pennsylvania. She is absolutely hilarious. Everynight before bed, Pam puts her hair in rollers and gets in her silk PJs. Suprisingly enough Kara and I convinced her to come with us on safari along with 7 others. She was such a trooper, and although she rolled her hair every night, and kept her Tiffany bracelet on the entire time... she brought a great sense of comic relief to our safari.
During placement today, I taught the girls tailoring vocab. They really liked the pictures that went along with the words. I was working with the 2nd group of girls who are as equally eager to learn as the first group. Although the technology at WAMATA is very very old, I am going to try to create a website. I will work on an HIV/AIDS pamphlet, and we already have orders coming in for the coffee project. The conditions for using any Microsoft Office program are so different, but I'm going to make it happen. I talked with Emanual (one of the program leaders) today, in detail about using the revenue from our fundraising to purchase a desk and school supplies for the girls.
Tomorrow I am going on my first home visit. We will be walking 3km to the home of a woman and her 2 daughters who have HIV/AIDS. I was asked to bring sugar, and flour for bread as a gift.
This afternoon after lunch we have a lesson on the Tanzanian Education System, which should be very interesting.
At night I have been working with Elly - a house keeper at CCS- on her English. I will post a picture of her tomorrow as she holds a special place in my heart.
Time is almost up... so I will write again soon.
"Our Bucket Shower"
"Our Beds"
"Our Room"PS Congratulations Sam and Rob on your wedding. I'm sure it was absolutely beautiful, and I wish I could have been there. Can't wait to see the pictures :)
Friday, August 11, 2006
To be blind is bad, but worse is to have eyes and not see.
Helen Keller
Although all power is out in Tengeru, the Internet cafe has a generator, so I have access!! I just finished typing a blog, but unfortunately, the computer shut down when I was about to post... so here I go again. As I am writing I have many many children looking over my shoulder, amazed at my typing speed.
I wanted to tell you all about an experience I had yesterday. We were brought as a group for a tour of St. Lucia which is an orphanage/hospice house that has been built by a former volunteer. What a learning experience. We were introduced to the numerous women living there who are in the transition phase between HIV/AIDS. The walls of St. Lucia also house 14 orphans - also all HIV positive. Upon entering the room of infants, they all reached up to be held. This is an experience that will stay with me forever. With only 2 staff members taking care of all the women and orphans, there simply isn't enough time to give the children the love and attention they need. The most difficult to see was what I thought was an infant girl, who turned out to be 4 years of age. Due to extreme malnutrition, she is not growing as she should. I thought she was a baby, and couldn't understand why she was talking so well. How sad this was.
Zik - our program leader told about the reasons why HIV is so prelevant in this community. Apparently due to tribal tradition, childbirth is done naturally, and although the details are quite graphic, I'll just say that childbirth and circumcisions are not sanitary. The disease spreads rapidly as 50% of the population still use these primitive ways.
Before leaving, one of the women staying at St. Lucia told us her story about how she tested positive for HIV and was abandoned by her husband. He took her children as well. She was now staying at St. Lucia (where she woke up one morning after passing out due to illness). Unfortunately, although the one small hospital and many NGOs are doing everything they can to do HIV education and prevention, the disease continues to spread, and the negative stigma that accompanies a positive test result lives on. Progress is being made, but at a very slow rate. Usually at the later stages of HIV, during the transition to AIDS (below 200 white blood cells count), ARVs are free to all hospital patients, should they be available. Money is a major obstacle. Usually tuberculosis is the most common opportunistic disease that ends up taking over their bodies.
This was a very difficult experience, but I am so glad to have been exposed to this reality. I don't have any pictures to post. I just couldn't bring myselft to take them. Pictures of St. Lucia are burned in my memory forever.
Thanks again everyone for your e-mails. Jackie - the coffee here puts Timmy's to shame:)
Helen Keller
Although all power is out in Tengeru, the Internet cafe has a generator, so I have access!! I just finished typing a blog, but unfortunately, the computer shut down when I was about to post... so here I go again. As I am writing I have many many children looking over my shoulder, amazed at my typing speed.
I wanted to tell you all about an experience I had yesterday. We were brought as a group for a tour of St. Lucia which is an orphanage/hospice house that has been built by a former volunteer. What a learning experience. We were introduced to the numerous women living there who are in the transition phase between HIV/AIDS. The walls of St. Lucia also house 14 orphans - also all HIV positive. Upon entering the room of infants, they all reached up to be held. This is an experience that will stay with me forever. With only 2 staff members taking care of all the women and orphans, there simply isn't enough time to give the children the love and attention they need. The most difficult to see was what I thought was an infant girl, who turned out to be 4 years of age. Due to extreme malnutrition, she is not growing as she should. I thought she was a baby, and couldn't understand why she was talking so well. How sad this was.
Zik - our program leader told about the reasons why HIV is so prelevant in this community. Apparently due to tribal tradition, childbirth is done naturally, and although the details are quite graphic, I'll just say that childbirth and circumcisions are not sanitary. The disease spreads rapidly as 50% of the population still use these primitive ways.
Before leaving, one of the women staying at St. Lucia told us her story about how she tested positive for HIV and was abandoned by her husband. He took her children as well. She was now staying at St. Lucia (where she woke up one morning after passing out due to illness). Unfortunately, although the one small hospital and many NGOs are doing everything they can to do HIV education and prevention, the disease continues to spread, and the negative stigma that accompanies a positive test result lives on. Progress is being made, but at a very slow rate. Usually at the later stages of HIV, during the transition to AIDS (below 200 white blood cells count), ARVs are free to all hospital patients, should they be available. Money is a major obstacle. Usually tuberculosis is the most common opportunistic disease that ends up taking over their bodies.
This was a very difficult experience, but I am so glad to have been exposed to this reality. I don't have any pictures to post. I just couldn't bring myselft to take them. Pictures of St. Lucia are burned in my memory forever.
Thanks again everyone for your e-mails. Jackie - the coffee here puts Timmy's to shame:)
Thursday, August 10, 2006
A Great Day At WAMATA
"The greatest good you can do for another is not just share your riches, but reveal to him his own"
Benjamin Disraeli
Today at WAMATA was very productive. I met with the girls early on in the morning, and we began review from the day before. I introduced spelling words that we will write out every day. I hope with some structure, things will come along well. The best part of the day was when I took the girls' pictures with a Polaroid camera, and had them do All About Me posters. I can't tell you how thrilled they were to see themselves, and it was a great learning experience. As well, they wrote things describing themselves in English. We talked about likes and dislikes, our families, ages and places of origin. It is interesting that in my class of 10 today, 2 girls are named Happiness, 2 are named Eliza and 2 are named Angel.
I introduced the idea today to the leader of WAMATA about having the girls learn to sew cloth coffee bags with Tanzanian coffee and the WAMATA logo. We will target tourists who usually purchase coffee as gifts. They loved the idea and the girls began sewing the bags during their sewing lesson. The way the program works, is that if a volunteer is available to teach English, the girls receive lessons, if not, they continue sewing all day. This will be their only choice for vocation in the future. Tomorrow I will be teaching them sewing terminology. I wish I would have learned to sew now from Grandma Bondy!!
I also talked to the program leader about considering changing the structure of the learning environment. The girls come for one week and then another group comes the next week. One week on one week off. This makes it very difficult for them to retain information. Within minutes of introducing the idea of the groups coming every other day, it was accepted and will be implemented beginning Monday. They are very receptive and appreciative of new ideas.
My tough time today came when watching the girls at "tea time". They are each given a cup of tea and 2 slices of white bread. I was told later that this is most likely their only meal all day, and on the days that they are unable to come to WAMATA... they typically don't eat anything, another reason why the every other day program might be a better choice for the girls.
Thanks again for your comments, and I'll be in touch soon.
"The greatest good you can do for another is not just share your riches, but reveal to him his own"
Benjamin Disraeli
Today at WAMATA was very productive. I met with the girls early on in the morning, and we began review from the day before. I introduced spelling words that we will write out every day. I hope with some structure, things will come along well. The best part of the day was when I took the girls' pictures with a Polaroid camera, and had them do All About Me posters. I can't tell you how thrilled they were to see themselves, and it was a great learning experience. As well, they wrote things describing themselves in English. We talked about likes and dislikes, our families, ages and places of origin. It is interesting that in my class of 10 today, 2 girls are named Happiness, 2 are named Eliza and 2 are named Angel.
I introduced the idea today to the leader of WAMATA about having the girls learn to sew cloth coffee bags with Tanzanian coffee and the WAMATA logo. We will target tourists who usually purchase coffee as gifts. They loved the idea and the girls began sewing the bags during their sewing lesson. The way the program works, is that if a volunteer is available to teach English, the girls receive lessons, if not, they continue sewing all day. This will be their only choice for vocation in the future. Tomorrow I will be teaching them sewing terminology. I wish I would have learned to sew now from Grandma Bondy!!
I also talked to the program leader about considering changing the structure of the learning environment. The girls come for one week and then another group comes the next week. One week on one week off. This makes it very difficult for them to retain information. Within minutes of introducing the idea of the groups coming every other day, it was accepted and will be implemented beginning Monday. They are very receptive and appreciative of new ideas.
My tough time today came when watching the girls at "tea time". They are each given a cup of tea and 2 slices of white bread. I was told later that this is most likely their only meal all day, and on the days that they are unable to come to WAMATA... they typically don't eat anything, another reason why the every other day program might be a better choice for the girls.
Thanks again for your comments, and I'll be in touch soon.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
"Everyone's A Star That Deserves The Right To Shine"
Marilyn Monroe
Hello Everyone,
Today was my first experience at WAMATA. I have to keep this short because I only have 10 minutes of Internet time. In Tengeru, all power is down Tues and Fri, and the other days it is very slow.
WAMATA is located in a very very poor area, the poorest I've seen yet. I will be teaching 20 girls between the ages 14-20 all of whom are AIDS orphans. They are soo wonderful, and I hope that I will be able to post their pictures soon, but last time I tried it took over 30 min, and then the computer shut down. I will be working with Gervais (the program leader) to initiate a fundraiser to create handmade coffee bags to sell to tourists. Since the organization has no money, and no supplies, money is badly needed. I hope to help them generate at least some while I am here. Their classroom is one small room, that has no electricity and only one small blackboard. The girls bring in torn booklets and pens which they value beyone belief. They all sit on 2 wooden benches... really I can't do it justice in e-mail, expecially their eagerness to learn.
Everything else is very good. We played a soccer game yesterday against a team of players who all have HIV. We played in the hopes of reducing the negative stigma that the local community puts on these people. We hoped that if they saw us playing with them, they would not treat them like outcasts (a typical response).
Thanks so much for your comments. I can't tell you how much messages from home are appreciated. If there is any way of posting pictures... I will find it...
I'll be in touch very soon,
Annie - or now - Teacher Annie
Marilyn Monroe
Hello Everyone,
Today was my first experience at WAMATA. I have to keep this short because I only have 10 minutes of Internet time. In Tengeru, all power is down Tues and Fri, and the other days it is very slow.
WAMATA is located in a very very poor area, the poorest I've seen yet. I will be teaching 20 girls between the ages 14-20 all of whom are AIDS orphans. They are soo wonderful, and I hope that I will be able to post their pictures soon, but last time I tried it took over 30 min, and then the computer shut down. I will be working with Gervais (the program leader) to initiate a fundraiser to create handmade coffee bags to sell to tourists. Since the organization has no money, and no supplies, money is badly needed. I hope to help them generate at least some while I am here. Their classroom is one small room, that has no electricity and only one small blackboard. The girls bring in torn booklets and pens which they value beyone belief. They all sit on 2 wooden benches... really I can't do it justice in e-mail, expecially their eagerness to learn.
Everything else is very good. We played a soccer game yesterday against a team of players who all have HIV. We played in the hopes of reducing the negative stigma that the local community puts on these people. We hoped that if they saw us playing with them, they would not treat them like outcasts (a typical response).
Thanks so much for your comments. I can't tell you how much messages from home are appreciated. If there is any way of posting pictures... I will find it...
I'll be in touch very soon,
Annie - or now - Teacher Annie
Monday, August 07, 2006
We Share Our Poverty
Today is the 2nd full day that we've been in Tengeru. Yesterday we had the opportunity to visit the Massai Market, where Ten Thousand Villages will be happy to know they sell very similar beautiful crafts and pieces of art. It is a wonderful opportunity to be in the minority, although difficult at times. The Tanzanian culture is so very welcoming and the people are eager to learn about our backgrounds.
We were given a task today to go into the village in pairs and ask the citizens for information. I happened to end up at the only teacher's college in Tanzania called Patandi Teacher's College for Students with Disabilities... how ironic.
I cannot begin to describe the level of poverty we are seeing. During our orientation today, we were told that 60% of the families of Tengeru live on $2.00 a day, and the other 40% less than that. The living conditions are so different. Although I read and read about what I would be encountering... it just becomes so real when you are here. It sure does put my Tim Horton's routine into perspective.
The people are amazingly happy. Their sense of sharing is overwhelming. We learned this morning that the philosophy here is that all is shared, even poverty. I had a vendor give me a pair of earings yesterday in the hopes that I will come back to buy things from him. I will definitely be back... what a smart business man.
Placements start Wednesday, so I will be in touch.
Thank you again for your comments. A little message from home really does go a long way:)
Today is the 2nd full day that we've been in Tengeru. Yesterday we had the opportunity to visit the Massai Market, where Ten Thousand Villages will be happy to know they sell very similar beautiful crafts and pieces of art. It is a wonderful opportunity to be in the minority, although difficult at times. The Tanzanian culture is so very welcoming and the people are eager to learn about our backgrounds.
We were given a task today to go into the village in pairs and ask the citizens for information. I happened to end up at the only teacher's college in Tanzania called Patandi Teacher's College for Students with Disabilities... how ironic.
I cannot begin to describe the level of poverty we are seeing. During our orientation today, we were told that 60% of the families of Tengeru live on $2.00 a day, and the other 40% less than that. The living conditions are so different. Although I read and read about what I would be encountering... it just becomes so real when you are here. It sure does put my Tim Horton's routine into perspective.
The people are amazingly happy. Their sense of sharing is overwhelming. We learned this morning that the philosophy here is that all is shared, even poverty. I had a vendor give me a pair of earings yesterday in the hopes that I will come back to buy things from him. I will definitely be back... what a smart business man.
Placements start Wednesday, so I will be in touch.
Thank you again for your comments. A little message from home really does go a long way:)
Sunday, August 06, 2006
We Have Arrived
After a very smooth 18 hour flight with a 2.5 hour layover in Amsterdam, Kara and I arrived at the Kilmanjaro Airport where we met 13 other CCS members. The airport was very different to say the least, but passing through customs was easier than expected and thankfully there were 3 men from CCS waiting to help us with our luggage. Since each one of my bags weighed 65 lbs, I was especially thankful.
The drive to the house was interesting. We piled into the van and began our hour drive. The cars drive on the left side and the winding road was an optical illusion which made it look like the oncoming trucks were going to hit us. The only main road is about the width of one of our side streets, and it runs all the way from Cairo to Cape Town (North to South Africa).
The homebase is great. My roomates (Kara, Gabby, and Michelle) are great and the food is wonderful. So far we have walked a little around the town, but have mostly just spent time talking with the other volunteers. I am soo looking forward to this placement, and being able to share it with such wonderful people. The people have been so welcoming and all of the children have been running up to us. One even gave me a "pounds" ( touching fists).
Tomorrow we have orientation, then Tuesday is a holiday called Nane Nane (Farmer's Day). Our placements begin Wednesday, and from what I hear, I'm going to have to be very assertive to make things happen. For those of you who know me... this shouldn't be a problem.
I'll write again soon. Thanks for reading.
Kwaheri (goodbye for now)
I have pictures, but can't post them now... I found a way to do it later though:)
Thursday, August 03, 2006
One More Sleep
Our flight leaves tomorrow at 7:10pm. It will take us 18 hours to arrive at Kilimanjaro airport.
I can't believe all the luggage I am taking. Unlike most of the trips I have taken in the past, the majority of the luggage space is being occupied by resources that I plan to leave with the organization.
I received a wonderful donation from CANFAR http://www.canfar.ca/. My request for educational supplies was answered very quickly as they shipped 500 condoms and educational brochures 2 days later. I hope to use these brochures as templates for volunteers to create an HIV/AIDS prevention brochure specific to Arusha. I will be bringing along many other supplies I have purchased thanks to the donation of so many friends and family members. I also have to extend a special thank you to my union, the "Ontario Seconday School Teacher's Federation" (OSSTF). The International Assistance Committee was extremely generous, and thanks to their donation, I have been able to purchase many educational supplies that will benefit the volunteers at WAMATA who are trying to learn English as well as the orphans.
I finished packing today, and hope to spend some time getting a website started for WAMATA.
Everyone has been asking me if I'm getting nervous, and to be honest, I don't feel nervous at all right now. I hope it's because I've done so much to prepare, and because I'm so excited to begin.
Here is a picture of the staff members I will be living with for the next month.
Thank you so much for taking the time to travel along with me. Next stop... Arusha, Tanzania.
I finished packing today, and hope to spend some time getting a website started for WAMATA.
Everyone has been asking me if I'm getting nervous, and to be honest, I don't feel nervous at all right now. I hope it's because I've done so much to prepare, and because I'm so excited to begin.
Here is a picture of the staff members I will be living with for the next month.
Thank you so much for taking the time to travel along with me. Next stop... Arusha, Tanzania.
From left to right they are:
(Back row) Mama Betty- program officer, Japhet- chief cook, John-program officer, Gilbert-program officer, Elly - housekeeper, Zik - Logistician/Driver, Mama Esther-Country Director.
(Front row) Fortunata - Cook/housekeeper, Thomson- Security Guard, Kristen (program leader), Nickolas - Security Guard
Friday, July 28, 2006
I Couldn't Have Asked For Something More Perfect...
One Month Placement at the WAMATA Organization
~Working Together in the Fight Against AIDS~
A few days ago, I received a letter from Kristen (my program leader) explaining the focus of the project I will be working on in Tengeru. While reading through the placement possibilities that I have included below, I had tears in my eyes, as this work is exactly what I had been hoping for. I couldn't have asked for something more perfect. Over the past 2 days I have collected many resources and have begun to put a WAMATA binder together.
Here is the e-mail I received outlining my placement description:
Volunteer Work Placement
Country: Arusha, Tanzania
Volunteer Name(s):
Name of Partner Organization: WAMATA
Website: http://www.wamata.org/
General Information about the Partner Organization: WAMATA, an acronym for “walio katika mapambano na AIDS Tanzania” works with those in the struggle against HIV/AIDS. It is a national NGO registered in 1989 with 8 branches nation-wide. Arusha offices are in Tengeru Village, 100 meters from the main Arusha-Moshi road, and a short walk from the CCS Home-Base.
WAMATA is one of the leading NGOs dealing with HIV/AIDS in Tanzania. They employ a multi-faceted strategy to reach those affected directly, and then incorporate local efforts in the overall fight against HIV/AIDS in Tanzania.
The objectives of WAMATA are:
· To create HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention through education and outreach
· To improve the quality of life of households that include HIV/AIDS orphans
· To promote the spirit of volunteerism among the community
· To promote partnerships among HIV/AIDS-related organizations
· To provide proper and correct education and information on reproductive
health and sexuality
WAMATA is primarily funded by the Canadian International Development Agency’s Southern African AIDS Trust (SAT) and the Danish Association of Youth Clubs. The WAMATA national organization does not provide funds to the branch offices. SAT funding is largest, but is temporary ended November 2004. So ongoing fundraising and sustainability is an issue.
WAMATA Arusha has 3 staff members: 2 men and 1 woman. There are 36 paid members, many of whom are volunteers active in the organization. The 26 most active members range in age from late teens to about 50 years old. Many of these members are community counselors and they are active in the WAMATA drama group that performs at churches, schools, and other community forums with the goal of raising awareness about HIV/AIDS issues, the problems of stigmatization, and the cultural factors that are contributing to the rapid spread of AIDS in Tanzania.
WAMATA has registered 210 AIDS orphans (84 females and 126 males) in the greater Arusha area. They provide emotional support and education to their households, encourage AIDS testing, and provide food, clothing, and school tuition as they are able and as needed.
WAMATA provides HIV/AIDS testing, and offers vocation training courses to the young adults is serves. These courses include English, tailoring, and other skill building courses. WAMATA has 2 rooms in which English classes and other activities can be held. One has several benches; the other is empty. There is nothing else in the rooms. Masking tape and flip chart paper has been successfully used and the students copy the information into exercise books.
The skill levels of WAMATA members are very varied. Many can read English quite well but comprehension and vocabulary levels are quite low. A few have excellent skills and can build their vocabulary and expand their comprehension of more complex concepts.
English proficiency of the project coordinator and Thai volunteers range from 1-3 on a scale of 1 to 5, 1= none at all and 5 = proficient.
WAMATA staff members are Mary, Emanuel and Gervas. Josephine is a volunteer that comes everyday. She cleans, serves coffee and learns English. John is the treasurer. He is also a volunteer but comes in when he is not teaching to work on the books. Emanuel and Gervas’ English is both very good so if you have questions or need translation, try one of them.
Duties:
· Teach English to the WAMATA members.
· Provide support to AIDS orphans and their households
· Make outreach home visits to orphans and families in the community.
· Assist WAMATA to increase its resources and effectiveness in the community.
Previous volunteers have worked with local restaurants and hotels to arrange for the group to give performances and earn money through donations and tips.
· Volunteers could also assist with fund-raising, proposal writing, research, help with web-site, teaching the group income-generating activities, assist with drama performances, etc.
Ongoing Projects: (see details in additional attachment)
1. Learning Computers: Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher and Outlook Calendar
2. Creating a Website
3. Pictures: They love pictures to have to put in proposals for fundraising, etc.
4. Orphan Sponsorship: One of the former volunteers, Shelli Fried, is working
on an orphan sponsorship for WAMATA Arusha.
5. Interviewing/Photographing Orphans: They need help with asking questions about
the orphans and taking pictures. You may have to be proactive and tell them
if you want to work on this project.
6. Going on home visits and peer education: On Monday and Wednesday afternoons,
WAMATA volunteers go on peer education trips. Home visits occur every
Tuesday and Thursday afternoon with Mary who is in charge of Home-Based Care
7. Nutrition and AIDS Education: We have been devoting a couple of lessons a
week to AIDS and Nutrition discussions.
8. English Lessons: Everyday from 9:30-11:30 we have English lessons.
9. Grant writing: WAMATA is also looking for help in writing grants and proposals
to ask foundations and companies for support.
10. Brochures: WAMATA wants to create brochures with WAMATA’s address and
logo on them about condoms and AIDS Care and prevention.
11. Creation of logo, letterhead, and business cards
12. Filing system and weekly meetings, calendars
13. Books for older English students
14. Volunteer folder: We also started a volunteer folder that includes a sheet
on each WAMATA volunteer and we hope to include pictures as well so that new
CCS volunteers can know more about the WAMATA volunteers.
15. Incoming Generating Activities: A new area we have not had much time to
explore is income generating activities both for WAMATA and for the clients
they serve.
16. Home Schooling Initiative
Here is a sample outline of one volunteer’s schedule. As you can see there are so many ways to contribute to WAMATA, your days will likely be uniquely different.
“Mondays and Wednesdays I helped out with HIV/AIDS patient home- care, bringing food to the patients and visiting with them. Then on, Tuesdays and Thursdays I traveled with the peer education group to do the HIV/AIDS awareness through song, dance, and drama. Since I can't speak fluent Swahili I danced around with my whistle to try and attract an audience (and believe me seeing a white girl dance around like a crazy person attracts A LOT of people hahahaha :)
Then Fridays were always different, one Friday I helped give an HIV/AIDS seminar to a group of elders in Kikatiti wheras another time I visited with a couple of the local traditional doctors and another time I went around with Gervas (WAMATA director) to other local NGO's to build some more partnerships.”
Useful Supplies:
Please note – It is not required that you bring these supplies to your placement. Just know that many of the placements are not equipped with a large supply of resources. These supplies have been used or suggested by past volunteers, and have proven useful in doing work at this placement. Supplies are for use at your placement, but are not to be left there.
Helpful supplies can be purchased in-country or brought from home:
teaching materials such as flip chart pads, marker pens, pens, masking tape, stapler, staples. (Flip chart pads, and tape are inexpensive in Tanzania.) WAMATA has been providing lined blank “exercise books” for each student. Any English teachers’ curriculum guides that you could bring would also be helpful. You may also bring any other resource that you might find useful for your work.
Work attire:
Please plan to dress according to the recommendations found in your Volunteer Handbook. Women – long skirts and modest tops. Men – trousers and button down, or casual tops. Comfortable good walking shoes like canvas or tennis shoes are fine.
Desired Attributes:
· Flexibility
· Desire to empower others
· Willingness to be creative
· Interest in education (English, HIV/AIDS, reproductive health)
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