Packing for two week trip with HAND LUGGAGE only!

I am writing this list in the hopes that you will also find it helpful regardless of your destination unless specialist clothing is required which might be quite bulky. I am lucky enough to be exploring India (yes, India!!!) for two weeks and decided early on that I wanted to pack light, so challenged myself to hand luggage only for the duration of the trip. I know, at first, this sounds quite scary and perhaps, impossible. However, once you get going you will soon become ruthless when packing and hopefully feel rather accomplished, like me. It's the small things...and you get to avoid:

*constantly sitting on your luggage to close
*not having enough room to buy/pack those how-can-i-possibly-live-without items discovered on your travels
*exceeding the maximum hand luggage weight and potential for being fined - you know what some of those airlines are like!
*too many options - sometimes it's a real drag on holiday
*this could well be an exhaustive list...

Having searched the web, I couldn't quite find anything satisfying enough, so here it goes...

Firstly, pack your suitcase/backpack as you normally would and try to roll rather than fold to save space. No time for waste, if you have closed-toe shoes, stuff them with small items such as socks and undies. I would even go as far as to plan your outfit for each day if space is really at a premium. You can still be flexible and switch the days up and it's great for list lovers! Oh and please measure your luggage to ensure it meets your airline's requirements.

1) haircare and skincare - decant into small bottles/containers - 100ml or less in a clear + sealable plastic bag. Sealable being key here or they may make you leave some items behind at security - I can attest to this first-hand! Avoid that awkward moment when it is suggested that you prioritise your hand sanitiser over your conditioner...I mean, really?!

2) headscarf 1 - to protect your curls overnight + even works for looking cute over breakfast when with company!

3) headscarf 2 - express your creativity/cover up for modesty when visiting monuments/be cosy on those AC-filled taxi or bus journeys/use as belt paired with a maxi dress to highlight your waist

4) THE maxi dress

5) beauty maintenance: razor, nail file, flannel/loofah, cotton wool + buds etc

6) swimwear x2 - easy to wash and dries quickly + doubles up as underwear too. I personally like a simple, strapless bikini for taking in the sun as well as a swimsuit - you're guaranteed to look cute even on those bloated days

7) multi-tasking garments: shorts/leggings + kaftan/tunic - love these to complete an outfit/cover-up at the beach

8) underwear: bras x3/4 + socks x3/4 + as many cotton undies as you can fit including thongs for fitted outfits

9) tops x7 (or like me, one for each day). You can always wash as you go, so travel soap is a must which won't eat into your liquids allowance. Failing that, pay to get your laundry done or source a local lavandería (LOVE that word, sounds so much nicer in Spanish, I digress...)

10) pants/skirts x4 - light fabrics - I love cotton, silks + linens...

11) PJs - the smarter the better if you want to get away with them at breakfast/those in-between moments when you need to go to the store etc

12) footwear: trainers (especially if walking a lot), sandals with small heels which can be worn day to night + flats/flipflops. If you're hostelling it additional flipflops for the communal showers

13) airport outfit - just change your top + undies + socks on your flight back

14) your medication + over-the-counter essentials such as painkillers, rehydration salts + antihistamines etc 

15) entertainment: ebook/real book, mobile phone (ditch the extra camera unless essential) + charger. I think audio books + music apps on your phone are great as less things to carry

16) small/medium-sized bag to carry on the plane and to be used throughout the trip - I like to stick to a neutral colour

17) jewellery - less is more for me but whatever works for you. I like to change up my look with earrings and ear cuffs

18) candle - comforting and makes your surroundings smell gorgeous which is lovely especially when sharing a space with others

19) padlock

20) your passport!

Happy travels!

resilience + relaxation

Resilience and relaxation. At first, this may seem a strange combination, impossible even. However, I'm still reaping the benefits from my Sweet Yoga retreat earlier this month and was gifted the space to build on my resilience and relaxation. I say 'gifted' because I truly believe that this experience was an important part of my self-care this year and was a treat for my mind, body and soul. My first time on this retreat was back in 2014, and I feel as though I benefited even more this time around. I was less anxious about the fellow yogis attending - you never know until you get there as I go alone. I trust Justine (who runs the retreat) and more importantly I trust the process. On this occasion, six nights in a picturesque village near Gois in central Portugal, practicing yoga twice a day tailored to our needs, and living in a beautiful villa complete with delicious homemade meals - a vegetarian's dream - well for me at least - and even the meat eaters were satisfied! It was as magical as it sounds! Eating dinner al fresco at night, great conversation and company, and lots of laughter!

Back to my resilience building. One of the activities we engaged in was using a tennis ball to help alleviate tension in our bodies, some points were particularly tender and uncomfortable, but we were encouraged to breathe through the discomfort and even now when packed on the tube like a sardine on my new commute to London, I think about these positive moments tinged with discomfort and it puts me back on track and helps me to keep focused. Admittedly, during my tennis ball practice I had moments of 'what on earth am I doing???' However, it was all worth it! Another action that I am able to practice since the retreat, is feeling grounded through my feet. Simple things like spreading your toes to feel rooted and steady! These are the little things that I have taken away with me and can hold on to. I'm so grateful. Relaxation wise, away from London and work, I was able to chill out, gaze out at the beautiful scenery, simply spend some time with nature, breathe in fresh air, hang out at the local river beach and not have to worry about my next task or email! When I chill, I really chill! It just so happened that I had some major life events to follow and the timing was perfect in terms of having this time to myself. Yes, some 'me' time!

For me yoga is not so much about fitness, but about connecting my emotions with my body and taking the time to meditate, think, and switch off and not feel guilty about it. I also like what it does for my core and posture, and my sense of being. I guess the common thread here is self-awareness. The more I think about it, the more I am convinced that it is important to write about such experiences to remind myself that I should continue to make a commitment to doing things that inspire and nurture me.Whatever 'it' is that works for you, do it!

It's been a while...

...it's time

I have decided to return to blogging and continue to use this space as a creative outlet alongside my visual diary. Only moving forward, I will reflect on various interests, which are not necessarily about Haiti, but express my passion for wellbeing, travel, people and making a difference nonetheless. I've been meaning to write for a while now, but needed this push to self-motivate. Sometimes you need to state your intentions to make them happen or something like that...you know what I mean, right?!  

Colombia

Two years on and I am ready to start writing and sharing again…

I recently got back from an exciting and inspiring trip to Colombia with my mum and feel compelled to let others know about my positive experience despite the negative stereotypes and stories that we are often bombarded with. No, not volunteering or trying to "save the world!" I simply enjoyed the adventure of visiting such an interesting country and engaging with the locals whilst making great efforts to convey my passion for learning Spanish and understanding their culture and history. Look beyond the negative portrayal of Colombia and one will find natural beauty in abundance across a range of terrains and within the people. The altitude is often high and so were our spirits whilst exploring the country. We've only obtained a glimpse of each place that we visited but fell in love with each one for different reasons: Bogotá, Villa de Leyva, San Gil, Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta and Cartagena. And of course, this means we have a great reason to return and delve deeper into the places that we felt particularly connected to as well as visit new areas. Travelling on a group tour was great as most things were arranged for us by the tour leader and luckily our fellow travellers were warm and friendly; we laughed HARD day and night! And don’t think it was a lazy trip, we were active visiting weird and wonderful sites, horse riding and wandering around the different towns. We even tested our endurance during the hike inside Tayrona with the treat of staying by the ocean a great incentive to climb the rocky path in the sweltering heat. However, nothing could have prepared us for two nights sleeping in hammocks under a thatched roof exposed to the elements — an experience that we will never forget! This was certainly adventure style travel. I'm delighted that I was able to share this experience with my mum and we often reflected on what we had seen and learnt during our trip and continue to do so now that we are home. 

What really stood out for us is how alert our senses were over there: the smells, sights, sounds and tastes... We thoroughly enjoyed sampling the tasty Colombian dishes, particularly fresh fish the closer we were to the coast as well as choosing between the plethora of local eateries for the incredibly value-for-money, ‘menu del dia,' providing soups, main meals, desserts and freshly squeezed juices. Oooh I can almost taste the pineapples, papayas and coconuts now :-). Lest I forget the eggs (anyway you like), fresh fruit, juice and coffee served every morning regardless of how humble our dwellings were - whether guest houses or hostels. Boy do we miss those breakfasts now that we are back in London. We ate like queens for sure! 

Moreover, we felt a sense of peace on each stop whether it be in Monserrate overlooking Bogotá; the largest South American plaza of Villa de Leyva; or the unexpected sanctuary of the botanical gardens of Gallineral Park in San Gil despite it being such a bustling and maze-like city. Whilst travelling by bus on various routes and watching the world go by we were WOWed by how vast Colombia is and the greatness and power of nature, and how small we are in comparison. This is extremely humbling. We also felt particularly at ease in Cartagena which is the Caribbean side of the country and we enjoyed a day trip via boat to Playa Blanca - a picture postcard beach - and glimpsed many little islands inhabited by Afro-Colombians en route. Learning about the indigenous cultures and Pre-Columbian history was also an eye opener which deepened our knowledge and opened our hearts and minds to embracing different cultures and ways of life. Furthermore, we remain both fascinated and bewildered by the colonial past and look forward to further opportunities to travel in this way around Latin America in the future. 

I'm still holding a piece of Colombia, which makes me smile…

Vendor in Playa Blanca...Paradise found! 

 Tayrona was well worth the hike!

The Terracotta House...Gaudi meets Dali?! 

Astounding views of Bogotá arriving on Monserrate (mountain) via the funicular

Roadside barbecue. Muy rico!

10 things I miss/love about Haiti

Woahhhhhhhhh! It's been almost 2 years since I was in Haiti, so I thought I'd share a list of things I really miss... In no particular order...of course!

1.Egg sandwiches on the roadside (choice is always limited when you don't eat meat). I reminisce about them bring so tasty and full of flavour. Deee-licious!! The simple things in life...

2. A smile amidst adversity 

3. The nature

4. Stephenson, possibly the cutest kid I've ever met (see below)

5. Hope. It's infectious...

6. Everyone is a walking inspiration 

7. Absence of "woe is me"

8. Visiting Fort Jacques- a reminder of the fight for Haitian independence, an indescribable feeling like I was on top of the world with stunning views of Port au Prince, never seen anything quite like it. Thanks to the hospitality of a local family I was able to visit
9. Learning to love raw tomatoes! I thought this task was insurmountable, but I guess not! 
10. The beautiful friendships that I made...you know who you are

Thinking of you Chris Zahuta...a genuine friend and hard grafter who sadly passed away in Haiti, July 2011, helping to make a difference.

If you remember anything about this post, let it be, don't forget about HAITI.

Haiti's New Dictatorship

Engaging and thought-provoking short article written by Justin Podur that I came across on the Upside Down World website, which is an alternative source of information to the mainstream reporting on activism and politics in the Americas. Well worth a read...Haiti's New Dictatorship concerns international control over the country including Western governments and NGOs and its impact on Haitian's as well as addressing the negative portrayal of Haiti. The article also highlights the often overlooked economic contribution of the Haitian diaspora.

What are your thoughts on the international presence in Haiti?

Haiti Fundraiser - Notting Hill Community Church

It's been a while since I've written a post...The last few months have been crazy busy and I've thought about Haiti many a time and my enriching experiences in other parts of the world as well as in London. I went to a Haiti fundraiser last night, 30 November 2012, at the Notting Hill Community Church with my Ma. Check out their website for more details and about how you might get involved and United Haitians in the UK too. It was our first visit to the church and we were welcomed by all. What a fabulous night! Lots of love and positive energy flowed through the building. The church is raising money to support children's education in Haiti and we were more than happy to be a part of that. It reminded me of my own time in Haiti last year and the importance of working at grassroots level. Every little counts! There efforts help children's lives, their families and the community. A ripple effect. I was sad to hear about the devstation caused by hurricane Sandy, which destroyed many crops in the North. Unfortunately, Haiti and other parts of the Caribbean didn't receive as much attention in mainstream news as other countries. But they will not be forgotten. And lots of people do really care. Yesterday was a perfect example of that.

The beautiful sounds created by the range of performers transported me to the Caribbean, if only for a few moments. Wow! The beat of the drums, and the sounds of the rich voices and percussion merged together beautifully. So striking. It really touched me deeply. Hypnotic. Stirred the soul. A powerful experience and even better that I shared it with my Ma and those around me. Feeling inspired...

I would also like to acknowledge the passing of my loved ones in recent times. R.I.P. Chris, Churchill and Grandad. X

Looking for somwehere to donate or volunteer in Haiti?

Check out my friend, Robinson's, English School in Gonaives - TeacHaiti http://www.teachaitienglishschoolofgonaives.com/

One year later: a reflection on my time in Haiti

Wow! I can't believe it!! One year since I was in Haiti. I remember clearly arriving in the bustling Port-au-Prince airport alone. I had a slight panic tracking down my baggage in the makeshift building, the rain was pelting down, and my driver nowhere to be found. It was chaotic. A culture shock! I felt a mixture of wariness and excitement. Completely out of my comfort zone, but somewhere in the back of my mind I knew that I would be just fine! I'm so touched that despite spending a short amount of time in Haiti, it was such a transformative experience, a rollercoaster of emotions, and it really opened my eyes to other people's realities around the world. Never have I seen such abject poverty. On the other hand, never have I felt so welcome by people brimming with such determination, spirit and strength despite facing so much adversity. I was truly humbled by my experience in Haiti and continue to be today. I believe that everything happens for a reason and I am thankful that I was able to see Haiti firsthand and find out more about this island that always seemed so mysterious; to go beyond the myths and misconceptions and, let's face it, the overwhelmingly negative portrayal. I was overwhelmed by the natural beauty of the island and its people, juxtaposed by the absolute destruction exacerbated by the earthquake in 2010 - dilapidated buildings, flooding, rubble everywhere. Despair filled the air, yet I was moved by people's sense of hope and pride, something that I will always remember and value. It may seem inappropriate to say that I had a wonderful time, but I really did enjoying meeting and engaging with the local people as well as the other international volunteers. My time in Haiti was truly special. What I learnt then and what I still believe now is that as a short term volunteer I have a duty to keep talking about Haiti and sharing my experience with  friends and family, which hopefully they will share with others, like a domino effect.  I am under no impression that I can save the world. However, I also firmly believe that every little counts and that raising awareness is soooo important. This is a key message that I took home from Peru too.

"If you make an observation, you have an obligation" (M.K. Asante Jr)

When I close my eyes, I can smell, feel, hear and touch Haiti. A place like no other, all of my senses were alerted. I hope to visit again in the future with more advanced skills and experience to share and make the most meaningful contribution as possible to people's lives. I often think about Haiti and what the Haitians have to go through day by day. It was such a grounding experience and whenever I want to moan or complain I just think about how privileged I am to live in the UK and in London. Sometimes I take these privileges for granted - a national health service, welfare system, running water, and a safe and solid home. Most importantly, the basics: food, clothes and shelter. Nothing could have prepared me for my first sight of Haiti and I am so glad that I came without expectations because seeing such utter devastation is extremely mind blowing! Knowing that this is many Haitian's daily existence really does upset and frustrate me.

My experiences travelling and volunteering around the world drive and motivate me to do well and not take advantage of what I have in life. Witnessing injustice reminds me how lucky I am and keeps me focused on what really matters, to enjoy the simple things in life and not be consumed by trivial matters. Moreover, my recent experience in Peru has reinforced the importance of working with local people at grassroots level. It's the hard-working everyday people on the ground that truly inspire me.

One year has gone by and I'll never never forget you Haiti. This is my reflection.

Capitol Building, Port-au-Prince. First hour in Haiti

View from All Hands Volunteers base, Leogane

© All photographs belong to moi :)

Working at Casas de la Salud

Every morning, we jump into our moto taxi and are met by our friendly driver Ignacio, but we call him Nacho for short! He takes us to the parish of Acomayo where a branch of our partner organisation, Casas de la Salud (Houses of Health) is based. It is a small oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the streets of Ica and is filled with inspirational and extremely hardworking people. It's the heartbeat of the community and provides a range of health services, ranging from medical to holistic treatments. They also run investigations in various developments fields such as the environment, education and HIV/AIDS. Our focus here will be on early childcare, specifically for under three year olds, comparing institutionalised and non-institutionalised children.  Institutionalised meaning those children who attend a Wawa Wasi (early childcare). We are mid way through our placement and are finishing our first output, which is to design a research project on the development of children under the age of 3. We are interested in finding out the effectiveness of the government funded Wawa Wasi programme in a region called Salas Guadelope, which is a slum settlement. Many of the inhabitants are from Ayacucho and have settled here to work in the agricultural industry. They originally settled here for the prospect of employment to escape the terrorism that was fierce in that region between 1980 and 2000.

We are working closely with Norlley Munoz who is overseeing the project. We started by conducting a literature review to find related studies and existing tools that measure children's psychological and physical development. Next, we selected our materials for the investigation and conducted fieldwork for data collection, visiting children at 2 Wawa Wasis and in their homes. The Wawa Wasi's are preschool centres built by local communities, providing a safe space for children to attend whilst their parents are at work, and where they can be stimulated mentally and receive nutritional meals. It's been quite a challenge coordinating the investigation, but an invaluable experience as it has been incredibly insightful to see just how different people live and to see the disparities in access to health and education.

Everyday we face the challenge of learning Spanish and are always determined to improve our language skills, and the staff at Casas de la Salud are extremely encouraging and helpful.  We even had the opportunity to practice our Spanish when raising awareness of our research project live on tv and radio!

Since being in Ica, we have experienced an earthquake which was reported to be 6.3 on the Richter scale.  This unsettling event opened our eyes to the harsh reality that people are exposed to in developing countries. It was saddening to see the traumatic impact on people's lives, especially as it is a reminder of the devastating earthquake in 2007.  This experience has also demonstrated the strength of the local people and their ability to remain positive in the face of adversity. Ica has such a great sense of community and we are really happy to be part of it.

To find out more about Casas de la Salud, check out their blog at http://casasaludica.blogspot.com/

As you know, I am currently volunteering with the chairty, Progressio as Group Leader and am working with another volunteer called Rachel. This is our first blog about our work at Casas de la Salud (February 2012). All photographs belong to Rachel and I.

Maria Elena, Siempre Viva!

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the 20th anniversary celebration of Maria Elena Moyano in Villa El Salvador. Luckily, my friends who are volunteering in Villa have made a great video montage of the proceedings. Please watch it to find out more about this truly inspiring woman!

Video courtesy of Progressio Empower Peru Volunteers 2012

Saint Martin de Porres

Throughout my time in Peru I have been intrigued by images and figures of a Black saint. Who is he? What was his story? Let´s face it, I´ve never come across a Black saint before! Much to my amazement, I stumbled upon his name at work today - Saint Martin de Porres. Born in Lima in 1579 and canonized in 1962, some 323 years after his death in 1639...I`ll leave it up to you to fill in the gaps!

Wow...you learn something new everyday!

2 years later...

All Hands Volunteers report... http://hands.org/2012/01/13/project-leogane-2-years-later/

6.3 on the Richter scale!

At times, the stories I read in the media about natural disasters seem sensationalised, motivated by sales and profit.  Having volunteered in Haiti last year, I believe that even if this is true, no story can ever capture the anguish and devastating effects of the 2010 earthquake.

Well, in the early hours this morning, I experienced an earthquake, here in Ica.  I sat on my bed as the ground shook violently, it was as though a train had crashed through my window at full speed. It couldn't have been for more than 30 seconds but during that time a lot of things raced through my mind - that's for sure!  Strangely I felt a sense of calm, but it was mostly unnerving and unsettling.  My mind and body wobbled for ages after like jelly. I can not imagine what the people of Haiti and Peru (and around the world) have gone through and continue to experience.  According to reports the earthquake measured 6.3 on the Richter scale.  Waking up after a very intense and sleepless night, I could only think about those who were living in poorly structured homes and hoped that no one was hurt.  I can't help but put on my psychologist hat; I wonder what were the psychological effects of the 2007 earthquake on Peruvians.  I also think about how each new tremor agitates an already fragile state of mind. These issues are important to probe in Haiti too, and around the word for that matter!  What must it feel like to know that an earthquake could happen at any time and that it is completely out of your control?  Are people living in a constant state of fear?  What can be done to empower people living in earthquake prone areas, especially those from socio-economically deprived backgrounds?  How can we help those who face this reality, particularly in developing countries?  I hope to begin to answer some of these questions whilst I am here... one thing I do know is that this experience has certified in my mind that there is most certainly a higher power out there.  I stumbled upon the American Psychological Association (APA) natural disasters webpage last year whilst in Haiti.  Unsurprisingly, I am compelled to unearth this resource today and re-familiarise myself with its content.

My volunteer work over the past few years has reinforced just how passionate I am about development on a local, national and international scale.  And the importance of engaging in work that enables me to make a meaningful and positive contribution to society. If you can be happy at work and love what you do, then I believe that you have found true success!

Wow! Life is really precious and as a one of my best friends recently said "what a gift it is to be alive, and to know it".

Settling in...

I am slowly settling in to life in Ica, living in the desert has its highs and lows! The weather is hotttttt as you would expect and the humidity just knocks me out!  The kinda heat that makes you feel lethargic, yet you know that you have lots of work to do. I guess that's why they have siestas here, but to be honest that isn't working for me at all! Thankfully, the pace of life here is laid back and its probably a good thing that I'm getting the chance to slow down a little. I'm quite lucky to leave my house and be faced with sand dunes, not everyone can say that right?! However, when the dust and sand blows, and it does frequently, I sigh! Living in the desert is nothing like that Sex and the City 2 movie - let me tell you! I also have the pleasure of living on the Pan-Americana - the only road that links the North and South of Peru. You can imagine the noise!!! It's like being in my own epic car racing/lorry driving movie- the special effects are intense!

 Life is simple here, yet complicated. I've enjoyed learning about the Peruvian culture, history and politics during my orientation in Lima, and now experiencing it for myself in Ica. Forget the red London buses and grimey tube, I'm riding in tiny mototaxis back and forth on the bumpy roads of Ica now! I must admit, I definitely experienced a culture shock in Ica, more so than in Lima. Lima felt familiar, like I was in a European city, whereas Ica feels totally new and exciting but also overwhelming. It's interesting because Haiti was probably the most shocking reality that I have ever been faced with - the juxtaposition of the lush landscape, marvellous people and devastation of the earthquake on infrastructure and peoples lives. I instantly felt an affinity to Haiti. Whereas, it has taken me much longer to adapt to living in Peru, which is a surprise as I do adore Latin American culture. A learning experience nonetheless, and I have come to understand just how resilient and flexible I can be. I have definitely had my moments though i.e. w'hat the hell am I doing here?' But overall I am so thankful to be here and to work with Progressio and the local organisation, Casas de la Salud de Ica. I am slowly starting to find my feet and am very happy here. I look forward to the new experiences that await me...A dream has come true: to engage in meaningful work in South America! Yeehaa!!! I really have to step up my game and learn more Latin American Spanish - what a beautiful language! My understanding is improving, and I need to work on my delivery. I'm quite confident in interacting with the locals and more than happy to make a fool of myself in the process, and if all else fails hand gestures can be very useful!

Food is a big thing over here and life is centred around meal times. I have to say it will take me a lil time to get accustomed to some of the local dishes, but I have most definitely developed a penchant for Chicha Morada - juice made from purple corn, that is native to the Peruvian Andes, mixed with fruit and spices. Yum! The ceviche and chicharron de mariscos (think seafood tempura but nicer) is simply delicious too. On the other hand, my non carnivorous ways really are NOT understood here! The amount of times I've ordered a vegetarian dish - topped with swine of all things (gross)- is just hilarious. Moreover, people will look at you straight faced and claim that there is no meat in the dish lol! Oh well, keep on smiling...I'm in Peru!!!

Food aside, I'm here to facilitate a research project on child development with Casas de la Salud de Ica.  Situated in Acomayo, the local area is not the most joyous place to be, but once you step inside the premises it's like being in a little oasis. There is such a positive and warm vibe at Casas and the staff are very welcoming. I came to Peru with few expectations and am happy to have found out that I am able to engage in a project that I am truly passion about - y'all no research and helping others is my thing! And to learn from others and share my skills too. The project is about the effectiveness of the Wawa Wasis (early education/childcare) programme for children aged 3 and under, in terms of physical health and psycho social development. Wawa Wasis, is a government initiative that is driven by local people, and enables children from low income families to experience a nurturing and stimulating environment during the day, whilst the parents are out at work. We hope to share our findings with the local community to raise awareness of the outcomes that can be achieved and to encourage more families to involve their children with the Wawa Wasis programme. I am working in a small team at the moment and we are currently reviewing the literature and designing the study. I feel that I am finally able to put all of my research training, enthusiasm, and voluntary experience into a tangible and well thought out project. I hope to make a difference here, no matter how small.

All pics courtesy of Google images. Don't worry, I'll share my own pics soon... :)

2 + 2 + 12 = finally in Peru!

I finally arrived in Lima, Peru after 16 hours of flights (2 hours to Madrid, 2 hour layover & 12 hours to Peru) and 2 sleepless nights. We made our way to our current home at night, and despite the darkness, the new and old colonial buildings of Barranco immediately stood out! I have come to Peru to volunteer with the charity Progressio as Group Leader and will help carry out a research project in a province south of Lima called Ica. I am soooooooo excited to start! Other vounteers will be working in different projects in Villa El Salvador too. But before we dive into our projects, we are having an orientation to learn more about Peruvian culture and to improve our Spanish skills - I hope to be fluent someday! Lima is a bustling city full of life and energy, which in many ways reminds me of the hardworking and lively Haitian people! I have already been able to draw a few comparisons between the two countries, yet they are very much distinct! What first springs to mind is the devastating effects of the earthquake that hit Haiti in 2010 and my time in Leogane- the epicentre of the quake. Similarly, I will be living in Ica, which was hugely affected by an earthquake that occurred in 2007. Like Leogane, Ica is an extremely poor town where little has been done in terms of reconstruction despite large sums of money being raised to support a disaster relief effort. It will be very interesting to see, first-hand, what condition Ica is in and to experience the Peruvian way of life, so to speak. I like to think of myself as a realist idealist, and sincerely hope that things will improve both in Ica and Haiti. My research also tells me that Ica has a large African Peruvian population and I am extremely curious to find out more about them, as well as Peruvian culture and history in general.

I am also struck by the strong sense of faith in Peru, which again reminds me of Haiti. I visited the local square a few days ago and was lucky enough to view the beautiful big church that stands proudly in the centre. Catholicism is the main religion here, so it is fitting that I am volunteering for Progressio. I am volunteering as part of the new International Citizen Service (ICS), which enables young people, like me, to engage in international development through working on small projects in developing countries. I am specifically working for the COAST (Community Organisation and Social Transformation) programme. What I particulary like about this great opportunity is that I will be able to experience fieldwork overseas, which is often hard to come by. Moreover, I share the vision and values of working alongside grassroot organisations in projects that are very much driven by local people, rather than enforcing ideas upon communities!

RIP Churchill Fullerton

So so sad. A friend who I lost contact with and wish I had the chance to reconnect with before he passed. Thinking of you Churchill. Thank you for the memories.

Devastated.

I came across this article today about the occupation of Haiti...

http://www.globalwomenstrike.net/content/haiti-occupied-country
Do outside forces operating in Haiti cause more bad than good?

Strange things: Children of Haiti

I was lucky enough to be invited to the screening of 'Strange things: Children of Haiti' by a good friend earlier this month, as part of the 5th I WILL TELL International Film Festival. The theme - forgive and tell. The film documented the life of a few young men living on the streets of Haiti. I was immediately engrossed in their journey. These young men exemplified street smarts: savvy and resourceful, having to get through each day. No schooling, absence of family in some cases, their brotherhood giving them strength. According to the film, street kids are called 'sanguine' in Haiti which translates as 'soulless' in Creole. Ironically, What I found particularly interesting was that despite their plight, they conveyed strength, big dreams and were wise beyond their years, something a school book could never teach you! Moreover, recounts of their revolutionary history rolled off the tips of their tongues, and lived within them. By the end of the film, some of the boys had started the path to their dreams and some has fallen off...What really touched me was their resilience through the adversity that had been thrown at them throughout their lives and I left the room with hope for them all. One issue that arose was the difficulties in some of them adapting to the traditional school system. The structure that it required, juxtaposed by their chaotic lifestyle. It really made me think just how important it is to be creative in the way that we approach teaching children. One size does not fit all!

I find it disconcerting that the write up on the film, a reflection of the theme of the festival, states "Sometimes, for your own sake, it is better to forget the past and keep your eyes focussed on the future." What does this actually mean? From my perspective, the young men seemed to draw strength and pride from Haiti's fascinating history and showed determination to change their lives, away from their past. I don't believe it is better to forget the past, for me it gives me the push to be proactive and inspires and motivates me to fight for my dreams. To live and not simply exist.

Much props to the director, Alexandria Hammond and the team who put this together. Those beautiful young men drew me into their lives and were far from 'sanguine'. In fact they were inspirational in many ways. The film was raw, emotional, and touching. It made me reflect on my own experience in Haiti this year. It was great to see the astounding natural beauty of Haiti again and the vulnerabilities, strength and spirit of the Haitians, particularly the young people. I hope to attend the 6th instalment of the festival next year.

Where is all the money that was raised for Haiti?

When I was in Haiti back in June, well over a year after the earthquake, I quickly realised that there was still rubble everywhere, makeshift tents, flooding of stagnant water, lack of clean water - all in all nightmare-ish conditions. This forced me to ponder many questions, most patently - why hasn't more been done to help the Haitians in an effective way? It seemed glaringly obvious that the money raised worldwide either hadn't reached Haiti or was not put to good use. Both of which are reprehensible!

How the World Failed Haiti - the title of this article pretty much sums up how I feel about Haiti. On further reading, I found this article very informative regarding the present dire conditions, that I witnessed first hand, and ultimately the failed promises suffered by Haitians.

"This May, the U.S. Government Accountability Office reported that of the $1.14 billion allocated by Congress for Haiti last year, only $184 million has been "obligated." "

I often hear talk of Haiti being unfixable. A lost cause. However, it's often unclear to me whether this is in reference to the country itself (mother nature) or its peoples. To me, Haitians exemplify strength. Think Haitian Revolution (1791-1904) - its legacy still lives on in the people's spirits. I have faith in the people.

Is Haiti really unfixable or a place that some don't want to be fixed? 


Beyond the effects of the earthquake, have you ever questioned why Haiti is in this condition today?

I continue to write this blog because I feel that it is only right that I share my experiences in Haiti and thoughts since I have left. I wish to contribute to the discussions on Haiti.

Haiti should never fall off OUR radar.