South Africa Team Journal

Happy Freedom Day!

2011-04-27T09:01:00.000+02:00

Freedom Day is a South African public holiday celebrated on April 27.

Freedom Day is celebrated annually as a reminder of the struggle for a free and just South Africa culminating in the first democratic elections held in 1994, where South Africans of every walk of life participated in the making of our new country. Freedom Day commemorates the first democratic elections held in South Africa on April 27, 1994.

Freedom Day provides a milestone for all South Africans to collectively participate in the commemoration of the pain and struggle to build a non-racial, democratic and free South Africa in which we all have the freedom to prosper. The following is a list of Freedom Day acts or oaths, as described by the South African Government:

- Government reaffirms its commitment to consolidate democracy and promote cultural diversity and social cohesion in South Africa, as we celebrate living in a system that guarantees that never again will our humanity be taken from any South African, irrespective of their race, gender, creed or sexual orientation.

- In commemorating all the hero and heroines and the role played by ordinary citizens in the country and abroad, government calls on all South Africans to unite in creating a better future for all.

- Nation-building requires all South Africans to live by example, ensuring that that the values and principles enshrined in our Constitution become a lived reality in the development of fully functioning communities.

- We celebrate the Bill of Rights, which distinguishes us among the nations of the world and guarantees all South Africans freedom from the repression and hatred that characterised our past.

~ Information located at: http://www.info.gov.za/events/2011/freedomday.htm

Volunteer Testimonial Published on GoAbroad.com

2011-03-23T15:41:00.002+02:00

In recent weeks, South Africa Volunteer Nancy M. was kind enough to share her thoughts and reflections with individuals seeking volunteer opportunities on GoAbroad.com. Read on to enjoy Nancy's inspiring words and FEEL her excitement! You can also use the link below view all Global Volunteers Testimonials on Go Abroad OR add your own!

Nancy's South Africa Testimonial:
I spent a wonderful two weeks in small rural village called Malungeni (East Cape Province) South Africa. Most of our time was helping in the school; I helped Miss Thobeka teach Kindergarten and first grade. We also had daily "after school programs" at our guest house (tutoring, practicing reading in English, crafts projects, etc.) for all age kids. It was a magic time... walking to school in the morning, saying good morning to the people, the cows, the chickens and the geese. There was a wonderful welcome and goodbye party with traditonal songs and dance. I LOVED THIS PROGRAM!

Use this link to see all Global Volunteer testimonials OR add your own: http://www.goabroad.com/providers/global-volunteers/testimonials

Thank you, Nancy, and thank you all for your interest and support!!

And They're Off to Malungeni Again!!

2011-03-01T17:23:00.003+02:00

Our second volunteer team of 2011 to South Africa will begin this coming Saturday, and many team members are flying over in the next few days!

This team will be led by Tanya Battista Crespo!! Please read on and/or use the link below to learn all about Tanya's vast experience with Global Volunteers. You can be assured that in Malungeni, or any of our host communities, you will be in good hands with our professionally trained country managers and team leaders.

Tanya Battista Crespo (photo above), Associate Director of Operations and Donor Relations Manager: "Tanya manages operations and preparations for teams led by volunteer team leaders. In addition, Tanya manages our development and sponsorship programs, and works with volunteer donors on special fundraising projects for host community needs. Tanya has Bachelor’s Degrees in International Relations and Spanish with emphasis in International Development and Latin American Studies. She has led teams to or served on Global Volunteers service programs in China, India, Jamaica, Brazil, Ecuador, Italy, South Africa, Texas and Minnesota."

To check out Tanya's staff profile on Global Volunteers' website, click here: http://globalvolunteers.org/organization/staff/operations.asp

South Africa Service Program on USA Today Travel!

2011-02-09T17:11:00.000+02:00

Considering a service program in South Africa in 2011? If so, check out this great mention of Global Volunteers' volunteer opportunity in Malungeni in today's USA Today Travel.

Click here to read the article!!

Simple Reflections from a recent Volunteer

2011-01-14T01:47:00.005+02:00

"So much to be done but only two weeks to do these things. We must remind ourselves that things we think are important may not be a high priority here or there may not be the resources required. It’s difficult to see all that needs fixing, changing, improving, but we must remember, we are the visitors, the helpers, this is not our country."

Laura, South Africa Volunteer

Laura's Thought for the Day: "Development is about planting trees – even if you never sit under their shade." ~ Rev. Spiwo Xapile

"Spring into Service" in South Africa!!

2010-12-14T19:52:00.001+02:00

“Spring into Service” with Global Volunteers to receive a special limited discount offer for our March and April teams!

Four or more volunteers who apply by January 31 for any of these 28 teams in 16 countries will receive a discount of $200 off our standard service program fee, per volunteer, for one-, two- or three-week international programs or $100 off our standard service program fee, per volunteer, for USA programs. No other discounts apply.

Please encourage others to volunteer in our five fundamental project areas: education (especially promotion of girls education), labor and community infrastructure, health care, child care, and food and nutrition.

Call us at 800-487-1074 for details and we'll assist you every step of the way. Our worldwide host communities can’t wait to welcome you!!

Check out this link for more details & service program dates: http://globalvolunteer.org/special/springspecial.asp

South Africa Service Program Dates, March & April Teams:
5-Mar-11 to 19-Mar-11

Vote for Global Volunteers!

2010-11-18T23:12:00.002+02:00

From November 15 - November 21 the Star Tribune newspaper is holding a contest entitled 'Full Page Project' amongst MN non-profits and the winner will receive a free full page ad in the paper!

Please vote for us this week ~ you can vote once per hour!

Here is the link where you can register and then vote for Global Volunteers (please copy and paste the link): http://startribune.upickem.net/engine/Registration.aspx?contestid=22815

We would also encourage you to pass this link along to your family and friends, and post it on your personal Facebook page. Let us know if you have any questions, and remember voting goes until 5 p.m. Sunday!

Thank you for your support.

Team Journal, November 15

2010-11-15T09:31:00.002+02:00

Monday, November 15, 2010 (Mark)

Laura, Tai, and Mar went off to the tree project and with Sikho, Lumkile, Hilda, Nokhaya (2 ladies) and Mzuyanda dug 20 post holes and 20 posts and braces for 5 tree plantings In the afternoon Tai, Olga, Laura, and Mark spent several hours in the Bakery “designing” the water supply system and making measurements. Later it was back to the Guest House for “tutoring” and games. Lily went off to Grade 1 at Mbange and Susan & Betty went to Grade 4 there. Lily had her class until 1PM. At 4PM, it was dance practice with the boys. In 4th grade Susan found that half the class misunderstood how to draw a 5cm line. They were lost with perimeter. But they had a fun time with hand sanitizer before lunch. After dinner, we had a visit from the President and VP of the boys club. They had a very well thought out and detailed plan and request for assistance from GV. Also, Wilfred, a gentleman from a nearby village met with the team and Olga for possible assistance in the future. The night was topped off with a very vigorous rain, lightning, and wind storm that ripped the door off the outside cabinet.

Message of the Day: (Lily)
"Make the most of your life as meaningful as possible, that you think less about your own concerns, and more of others. In doing so, you will find you enjoy peace and happiness yourself." Dalai Llama

Team Journal, November 12: A Creative Entry!!

2010-11-12T15:53:00.000+02:00

Friday, November 12, 2010 (Susan)

Off went Betty, Lily, and I
To preschool with Mrs. Gebsai
Songs to sing
Games to play
See time go quickly by

Older children, six to ten
Had sums practice, then
Memory card games
Catching a ball
Coloring with pencils again

The most favorite play
Was the balloons, I’d say
On which Betty drew
Flowers, stars, and suns
For we “teachas”, a fun day!

Our labor team was free
As happy as could be
With Mark, Laura, and Tai
Sikho, Mzuayanda, and Mr. L
To fix cages around each tree

Holes repaired in net wire
Wit gloves, hammer, and pliers
Topped by wire with barb s
All hauled by wheelbarrow
Don’t you know they were tired

Ah, Friday, end of the work week
Driving through potholes deep
For our stay at Coffee Bay
With hot showers to enjoy
Watch out for the sheep!! Beep! Beep!

Message of the Day: (Mark)
You can out distance that which is running after you, but not what is running inside you (Rwandan Proverb)

Team Journal, November 10

2010-11-10T20:18:00.001+02:00

Wednesday, November 10, 2010 (Lily)

We left the Guest House exactly at 8:45 AM and our first stop was the Mandela Museum at Mthatha. It took us an hour to reach the place. There were only 7 of us who visited the place. That included Tai, Olga, Mark, Susan, Laura, Betty, and yours truly. This is what I learned after the museum. Let me quote what Mandela said about his country. “My country is rich in the minerals that lie beneath its soil, but I have also known that the greatest wealth is its people, finer than the purest diamonds”. He added, he can only rest for a moment for with freedom comes responsibilities and he dare not linger for his long walk is not yet ended. I was really impressed by Mandela. Then, the group separated and went in different places. Mark, Tai and Laura went to the bakery and then to buy materials in order to fix a leaking faucet. Tai and Olga must have gone to a grocery too and the three of us (Susan, Betty, and I) went to a department store to look for school supplies, battery for my flashlight. It took us a long time to find the right battery. Our guide thought it had to be Duracell, but quite the contrary. With Susan’s help, she suggested Ever Ready battery could replace Duracell. So, one problem was solved. Then Betty went to a fabric store together with me. From there we separated and I joined Susan who was buying some school supplies and some soda and cookies. It was lunch break and our guide brought us to a coffee shop. We brought our lunch so we did not have to order. Then, the waitress approached us that we cannot sit in that place without ordering something. Luckily, Betty arrived and ordered a can of soda and that saved the embarrassment. Later, Mark came and Sue offered him soda which she bought from the supermarket. I’ve observed they are a loving couple. Then, we went to the bead shop with Betty and Laura. Betty bought a lot of stuff for her class in beading and sewing. Laura also bought something for herself. I did not realize Laura is a “Jack of all trades” and so is Betty. After the long day, we decided to leave for home. The rain stopped - for a while – and drizzled again. It was a day to remember because we were able to accomplish a lot of things despite the inclement weather. No time wasted. Most of all, each one in this Team 13 has something special to offer to the people of Malungeni and that includes our team leader too, Tai. Olga bought a lot of food on behalf of the youth and joined us in the van. Tai had our groceries and we all helped in bringing the stuff to our Guest House. Instead of relaxing upon arrival, we still wanted to do some dancing. Sue and I danced to Chatanooga Choo Choo to the music of Mark’s radio. Betty and Koena (our cook) joined us too. So, the day ended with everybody happy.

Message of the day: (Laura)
Development is about planting trees – even if you never sit under their shade (Rev. Spiwo Xapile)

A garden is one of the things in prison that one can control. To plant a seed, watch it grow, to tend it, and then harvest it, gave me a feeling of simple happiness (Nelson Mandela)

Team Journal, November 9

2010-11-09T12:47:00.000+02:00

Tuesday, November 9, 2010 (Mark)

After 7AM breakfast, job assignments were made. Tai had administrative duties – report writing, budgeting, coordinating the new fence poles, and then swept goat “deposits” from the Community Center. Lily went to pre-school, where only 3 students were in class probably due to the bad weather. Betty went to Mbange Jnr Second School 4th grade. Bingo sight words were a big success. They worked on nouns/verbs and got locked in twice. The “instructor” did better than on the first day. Susan went to the same school 9th grade, where they had 24 students. They started with math, but soon said “we like to do English”. They also did logic games and reading. The last 20 minutes they entertained Susan with singing. Laura and Mark worked with Sikho, Pila, and Mzuyanda adding barbed wire higher on the tree planting cages until rained out about noon. Then, they went to the Bakery where they attempted to repair a leaky faucet and discussed the water supply and vent problems with Olga and Tai. As we were having an end of day discussion, we had a long visit with the local Police Commander, Kettaldas and his two assistants. They provided some Xhosa names: Tai = Nomvula (Rain Lady), Betty = Noxolo (Peace Lover), and Laura = Montombi (Good Lady). After their visit, Olga gave us another isi Xhosa phrase lesson. Then, Bonke, a male nursing student dropped in and we had a nice cultural exchange visit. After dinner, we played “musical chairs” with the electricity and candles due to the rainstorm.

Message of the Day: (Lily)
You can’t change everything, but you can always change something for the better, including the way you look at it.

Team Journal, November 8: First Day of Service!

2010-11-08T14:25:00.000+02:00

Monday, November 8, 2010 (Susan)

Our first morning of work began with an ample breakfast of oatmeal, eggs toast, juice, tea, and coffee. We had a brief team meeting with the assignments for the day, The labor team Laura, Mark and Tai were the first off with wheelbarrows, they transported trees to the planting sites, about eight helpers from the village under the guidance of Sikho planted 16 trees. Wow!. Planters included Pila, a 17 year old student and Mzuyanda a young man with cerebral palsy. This was done on a 30 degree Celsius day, very impressive. Olga our hard working volunteer coordinator and a driver delivered the rest of us Lily, Betty and Susan to schools. Lily at Mbange school became the lone teacher of 28 Grade R students who were treated to reviewing the alphabet, numbers, singing and dancing “Here we go around the Mulberry Bush” Betty also at Mbange worked with Maxwell’s class of 5th and 6th graders. She was the lone teacher some of the time, teaching English, Betty was surprised at the level of English proficiency of the students, Expected was the students curiosity about her. Susan worked at Upper Mdumbi School with Mrs. Beauty’s 4th, 5th and 6th graders. These students were writing exams in Xhosa so Susan was an extra pair of eyes. The students are helpful and respectful to their teachers. The single long building of several classrooms was in need of repair but the teacher’s workroom had many cabinets of donated workbooks and supplies, the organization of which might make a future project.

As we all gathered back at the guest house to share experiences there was laughter and tiredness. But it was not the end of our adventure. A truck delivering bags of food was being unloaded and stacked so we volunteered to help. A serious wind and rain storm blew in which necessitated moving the food under shelter. Now we really feel part of this community.

Submitted by Susan

Team 13 Journal, November 6

2010-11-06T21:20:00.004+02:00

1) Team Goals: Team 13’s goals:

• To have fun and work at the same time
• To contribute to community
• To experience community
• To share specific skills
• To make friends and build relationships

2) Characteristics of an Effective Team

• Every person has a voice
• Be flexible
• Team work – support each other
• Reach Consensus
• Communication/discussion
• Co-operation
• Understanding our differences
• Have same goals
• RESPECT
• Aggressive towards our goals
• Mean what you say, say what you mean
• Laugh
• Be willing to compromise
• Stay focused
• No cross talk

Photo Contest Submissions Encourage Volunteerism in South Africa!

2010-10-21T17:00:00.002+02:00

This fall, Global Volunteers asked our amazing volunteers to share some of their favorite service program images with us. We have been thrilled and encouraged by the response, and have already used many of the photos on our website and in new printed materials!! Now, we would love to share with you, a few of our favorite submissions depicting our volunteer service program in South Africa. ENJOY & thank you volunteers!!

Today has come too soon...

2010-09-17T17:13:00.001+02:00

Friday September 17th, 2010

Created by: James

Some final day thoughts……

Saying goodbye is the hardest thing to do – only if it’s goodbye forever!

Today has come too soon. Just as we have started to get into the flow of things our short program has come to its conclusion. We have made many connections not only within our team, but also with the local people and children.

We are humbled to have been in this position, where we were able to share a little glimpse of our life and be immersed in two weeks of life in rural South Africa. A place that continues to struggle, with sickness and ‘mental slavery’. There are some success stories and there are some who continue to raise their hands to grasp the seeds that we sow. We leave Malungeni with the hope that there will be great yield from these seeds and that people will see some benefits from dreaming and see it within their reach to achieve these.

Malungeni – Enkosi Kakulu! Thank you for your friendships and hospitality. We wish you all well and prosperity and good standing for your people and children – The leaders of tomorrow.

Usale Kakuhle – Remain Well…..

Enjoying our last moments in SA

2010-09-16T16:55:00.001+02:00

Thursday, September 16th 2010
Created by: Teresa Donovan

Our days are full and often exhausting, yet we aren’t ready for this experience to end. It seems each day brings more children to the classroom and to the community center, yet our volunteer numbers remain at four. How can we divide ourselves up to properly interact with and enjoy our precious moments with each child – not to mention the adults?

Teta’s class is now up to 42 children. Her teacher controls the children through physical punishment – hitting them on their hands with a stick if they are absent, late, or take too long to fetch the water. Teta and brood also coughed their way through today’s lesson as a field fire crept ever so closely to the school.

School was cancelled for Upper Mdumbi today so Dot, with James as her escort, took a stroll through the village. She found her walk to be a much better view of village life than her view from a car window. She was able to get photos of women washing laundry by the stream and was surprised by the rondevelds with satellite dishes. A highlight of the walk was meeting Obama and Zuma – well fed local pigs. James also enjoyed meeting up with some local lads (his words), using a photo op as a means to divert the boys’ attention away from harassing a dog.

Teresa and James met with Olga in the morning to brainstorm about capacity building projects – from training to beadwork to costing out bread production to motivating people to work. She book-ended her day by meeting with Bonke to discuss personal goals and budgeting and the challenges he may face in his marriage.

The highlight of the day was the community center which was filled inside and out with children of all ages. Outdoors, children squealed with delight as they attempted to fly a kite. Indoors, the cacophony of children’s voices was unending as some played tag, some hula-hooped, and others gathered in various corners to play games, read, color, or continue developing math and map skills. Even Olga and Beauty took a lesson or two from Teta and played a game of Dominoes.

Teresa was delightfully surprised by Oleni – a young boy who often hung outside the community center – finally came inside and sat next to her all afternoon. He was teased by the other children, but they soon stopped after it was clear to them he was welcome and given equal opportunity to share in the English lesson.

We all enjoyed having Bonke as our guest for dinner where the conversation focused on the use of corporal punishment in the schools – which, although forbidden, still occurs.

Teta and Dot spent the rest of the evening sorting through all the donations and teaching materials. They restocked the resource cabinet and organized the mounds of donated school supplies which Olga will distribute after our departure.

It is hard to believe that our two weeks of service is coming to an end. It is even harder to believe that we forged such strong friendships in such a short period of time. How does one say goodbye to people who have touched our hearts? How do we say farewell to friends whom we may never see again? Our one comfort is knowing that a part of us will remain in Malungeni and Malungeni will have our picture to prove it.

Addendum to previous day’s journal since Teresa did not give James a chance to speak:
James wants it on record that using a flush toilet and a running tap at Mike’s Kitchen the other night was a true “on top” moment for him!

Thought of the Day - Dot
Maybe,
Someday,
We will all join hands and live together . . .
Helping each other,
Loving each other.
Maybe,
Someday,
We will all make the world
A much better place . . .

Each day is a gift...

2010-09-15T16:51:00.000+02:00

Wednesday September 15th, 2010

Wednesday turned out to be a different sort of day for all four of us. Teresa stayed at “home” to work with Olga on evaluating some of the proposed or past business ventures in Malungeni. In addition, she worked with one student who had left school early and had come to the Guest House to find her. James served cookies and tea to both of them.

Teta was impressed with how beautifully the children sang their national anthem. She taught them to play London Bridge as an antidote to the difficulty of the fractions the teacher was working on with them.

Dot finally got to teach the science lesson she had bought props for last week. The children seemed to enjoy tasting the sugar, salt, and fruit drink they had dissolved in water, and hopefully they understood the process of solution.

At Dorothy’s school, there was no classroom instruction after the long lunch break, which began at 10:40. After lunch, chairs were moved into a double classroom and all the students gathered for their weekly religious service, which was led completely by students. There were several prayers, brief “sermons” by students and one teacher, and a great deal of spirited singing. When the worship ended at 1:00 p.m., school was over the day.

The most exciting part of the day began when the team took Olga, Kwena and Sam, the Guest House caretaker, to Umtata for dinner and to do some other errands. Teta, Dot, Kwena and Sam enjoyed a visit to the Nelson Mandela Museum. James, Teresa and Olga visited a bakery where Olga was able to establish excellent contacts for guidance in getting the Malungeni bakery going. They also shopped for some items to give to the children at the farewell celebration and were delighted when the shop owner who gave them numerous items free.

Dinner at an Umtata restaurant was very good, and the three staff people seemed especially happy to be there as our guests. The evening was the high point of the day for all of us.

Thought of the Day – Teresa Hartman

‘None but ourselves can free our mind’
-Bob Marley

~Building relationships~

2010-09-14T16:47:00.001+02:00

Tuesday, September 14th, 2010

We started off another day with a wonderful breakfast care of Koena. Off to another day of school where we finished up with the word search/unscramble. James stopped by Teta’s school for a few pictures.

During the morning recess several of the older girls had asked the teacher I’m assisting if they could talk to me ALONE, they were curious about American slang…couch potato, having a cow….they told me what they wanted to be when they grew up. There was a teacher, doctor, psychologist, actress. I have neurofibromatosis (NF) which causes bumps on my skin and they asked about it. The most frequently asked question of the ladies is “do you have a husband?” “Do you have children?” they are surprised when I say I have neither. It was really great…very smart girls. We went back to guest house for prepare to tutoring at the C. C.

I mostly played a form of Domino’s with several of the older boys and one game was really incredible… 4- ones, 4-twos, 6-threes, 5-fours, 5-fives, 5-sixes…what a game. I had the boys add the numbers together – 3, 6, 9, 12 etc.

Koena prepared another dinner. Olga had gone to East London personal business and it was an extremely HOT day…39 degree in East London and because Olga is still in mourning she has to stay completely covered (and wear green). On the way back to the compound she was kind enough to share the car back to Mthatha with an extremely over weight woman and her two small children and infant. Olga developed heat stroke/exhaustion. Teresa #1 and I became instant nurses and applied cold compresses, we made her lie down, put her feet up. We found ice packs in a couple of the 1st Aid kits and we took turns checking on her until her son Daniel could come over and take her home.

Dot’s on top – making headway with the children at her school. My on top was the Domino’s game. Teresa’s on top was a four year old little girl asking/telling her she wanted to write. James’ on top working on math problems at the Community Center and seeing the light go on over the heads of the children he was tutoring as they caught on to the multiples of 10, 100 etc. Good Night.

Thought of the day – Teresa

‘I don’t believe in just ordering people to do things. You sort of have to grab an oar and row with them’
-Harold Geneen.

A day of special moments...

2010-09-13T16:43:00.001+02:00

Monday 13 September 2010

Created by: Teresa

Today was a sharing of special moments which reflect the many types of experiences we have had since arriving in Malungeni. Blessed with a cohesive team, supported by a flexible team leader, we have found our sense of humor helps us address most situation.

Dot decided to ignore her teacher’s established protocol and thrust herself into the classroom setting. Garnering momentum from this, she then interacted with the children during recess rather then join the teachers in the staff room. She found more pleasure today than in all the days combined. She took on a large student in a game of tug-of-war and another guided her to the shade of tress because she was “white.” What touched her most was when a child selected her to be in the middle of a ring of students singing “I love my Teddy Bear.”

Teta continued to improvise with the children in her classroom. Although the teacher was more present today, Teta managed to communicate well with minimal Xhosa. The children who know even less English still flock to her to receive encouragement for their work. Teta is definitely achieving her goal of making children smile, laugh, and learn. She was quite moved though when a teacher informed her that some older girls would like to meet with her alone. We await the topic of this conversation. Stay tuned . . . . . .

Teresa recorded the presentations of the 9th grade class and enjoyed sharing positive remarks as well as areas for improvement. At the end of the school day she had a chance to sing many interactive songs with all the children. The girls played with her hair and she ended up with cornrows for the rest of the day. Teresa’s special moment was at the community center when a young girl she taught last year ran up to her and jumped in her arms, giving her a huge hug around neck.

James is just glad he did not go over budget with our team. But we hope he is pleased that we are happy to be here and with our accomplishments. We feel we are meeting our goals for the most part and only wish we had more time in the Malungeni community.

We were off to bed early once again to rest up for the next day’s special moments of which we are sure there will be many.

Thought of the day – WE SEEK….. ‘A world free of war and threat of war…
A society with equity and justice for all…
A community where every person’s potential
may be fulfilled…
An earth restored.

End of week one, off to the coast!

2010-09-12T16:40:00.001+02:00

Friday September 10th - Sunday September 12th, 2010

Morning dawned with alternating sun and clouds. The breakfast treat which Kwena greeted us with was chocolate chip muffins to go with our eggs.

Friday at our village schools is only a half day, but there were lessons for us to teach. Teta was left without the teacher to teach fractions. Since the younger students do not speak English, this was “fractions by pantomime.” Dorothy taught classes in English, math and reading with varying degrees of success. Teresa had a new group who needed practice in English conversation. She successfully did this using her photo album as a means of getting the students to share information about families, foods, and sports.

At the school where Dorothy and Teresa are posted, the last hour was free time when the teachers sat and talked in the staff room and the children just hung out outside. Dorothy and Teresa joined the children, and Teresa organized some games. Soon the children were organizing their own games.

James spent the morning doing paperwork and working with Olga on planning.

After a quick lunch at the Guest House, Dorothy, Teresa and Teta left with a driver for a three hour drive to the coast for a weekend at Port St. Johns. James stayed at Malungeni for the weekend to catch up on paper work and planning, and, hopefully, to rest.

Thought of the day ‘Your dreams need YOU to make them real’

Learning as we go...

2010-09-09T16:38:00.003+02:00

Thursday, September 9th 2010

As I awoke in the morning, I gave thanks for the day and was reminded through the peaceful silence of the many influencing events that have lead me to be blessed with this opportunity of service. It is such a humbling experience to work along side like minded people and be immersed in a paradigm that is sometimes hard to comprehend. It is also awe inspiring to know that there are people willing and eager to act as agents of change-prepared to think outside the square and look to other means and assistance of developing a life style that sometimes seems intangible for them.

Team 12s day started in the usual manner with a breakfast of oatmeal, fruit, toast and French toast. Oatmeal, which was the popular choice, was a good way to start the day as it seemed a bit cooler than usual. When breakfast was done we quickly cleared up and headed back to the meeting room for the morning meeting as Dot and Teresa were supposed to be picked up before 8.00am – Mr Momoza the principal of the Upper Mtumbe school was running a bit late and collected them at 8.30. Tetas ride was there just after 8.00 and she was whisked off to her work site. I felt like a parent again seeing the children off on their first day at school. I could sense their apprehensiveness but was buoyed by their quiet excitement.

For me it was a paper work day and after having a meeting with Olga and Koena, went for a walk to visit the Bakery. The bakery was one of the capacity building projects that isn’t operating any longer. I could feel Olgas sadness as she showed me the Bakery which is fully equipped including new equipment sponsored and installed in 2004. There are a couple of finishing touches needed for the bakery but another frustrating thing for her is that she wishes that there was a willing workforce who are prepared to give some time to help and move this Cooperative venture forward.

The team had varying days in their schools. Dot was happy that she wasn’t kept in the resource room for a long stretch and actually managed to teach one of the lessons she had prepared. She was a bit bemused though when she was asked if she was going to teach another planned lesson that was supposed to be taught on Friday. Teresa also started at Upper Mtumbe in Mr Momozas class. She was happy with her day which was high-lighted by students singing a song of encouragement meant to cheer a peer on when they struggled with a response in class. She felt positive about the discussions she had with her students and only needed to use her ‘mum’ look once when a student was going to use a cell phone in class! Teta’s day was also positive as she wasn’t left in sole charge except for the teacher having to go and use the copier. She was even able to take individual photos of her students with their name tags and was also happy that she had gotten to do a Wordfind puzzle in the Xhosa language-sadly for her though, an opportunity didn’t present itself for her to dance to Michael Jackson.

After school Olga organized a taxi for the team to head into Mthatha to do some shopping and also to use the internet. Dot was able to get some resources for her Science lesson on ‘dissolving things’ and Teresa and Teta had a ball @ the mall shopping and getting supplies. Olga and I did a food supply shop for Koena who had left us with a list for our final week. As we traveled back to Malungeni I pondered the stark contrast between the mall and the village from which we had come. The mall with affluence and busy employment seemed a world away from our humble home of Malungeni. I contemplate – What is the answer?

Dinner tonight was another hit with mash potato ‘made with butter, milk and aromat’, a lean type of sausage, a lettuce, cucumber and granny smith salad and a tomato, sugar and onion dish that could be used as a paste, a relish or a soup.

Our visitor for the evening was a cultural talk from Bonke. This young man shared a bit about his life and is one of the success stories of Malungeni - living proof of someone who has followed their dream and overcome adversity to live it. He talked about the roles of Xhosa men and woman, some cultural practices such as weddings and circumcision. Particularly interesting for me is the dowry that he needs to get together so his wife can be released to go and live with him (this ranged from money to alcohol and finally cows. A reported total of R50,000 paid off in 3 instalments!!!Thank goodness too that there is no interest on that!). Bonke was also a previous global volunteers host coordinator and is committed to coming and sharing whenever there is a team - May it long continue…….

Ulale kakuhle…Good night!

Thought of the day – Teresa Donovan
‘If I’d never have picked up the first person, I’d never have picked up the other 42,000 in Calcutta’ -Mother Teresa

Different experiences...

2010-09-08T16:34:00.001+02:00

Wednesday, 8 September 2010

We rose early Wednesday because Dot and Teta, with James and Olga as their escorts, were leaving early to be delivered to their first day of school. Koena prepared us with a hearty breakfast before we left and packed us lunches with our standby, p.b. and j. sandwiches.

Teresa headed off for another morning of painting and conversations with painters from the community who occasionally serenaded her with song. She painted until the paint ran out again.

The two school experiences were different. Teta was placed in a second-third term class, and early on was deserted by the teacher and left to improvise with twenty-four children who were excited on their first day back after the three week teachers’ strike. She was up to the task with her repertoire of songs and dances as well as a little academic instruction.

Dot, at a different school, spent the day in a combination teachers’ lounge-meeting room-storage room where teachers carried on their conversations in Xhosa. She did, however, meet the teacher to whom she is assigned and received a big homework assignment for the lessons she is to teach on Thursday and Friday.

The afternoon tutoring at the Malungeni community center drew a large number of children again. All four of us were busy supervising coloring, math and map puzzles; and Teta still had the energy to lead dancing.

Our dinner experience was a treat. Koena prepared a large meal because we had as guests the Reverend Spiwo, who initiated the work of Global Volunteers in Malungeni and serves as our program host, and his friend the Reverend Vuyo. We enjoyed the conversation during and after dinner.

We closed out the day with conversation among ourselves and a few work tasks in the guest house.

Thought of the day: ‘There is a good reason we are created with 2 eyes, 2 ears and 1 mouth… -Mark Twain

Are we really in South Africa?

2010-09-07T16:32:00.002+02:00

Tuesday, 7 September 2010

Created by: Teresa

Breakfast – another treat from Koena – freshly baked muffins – Yum! Are we really in So. Africa?

Back to the community center for another morning of painting. We were joined by an actual painter – Sikoh, plus numerous other young men – who once again outnumbered the paint rollers. James and Olga head out for Mthatha to purchase more paint and rollers. Dot demonstrated her extreme stair-master skills by climbing solo up and down from her painting table.

Teta – still waiting for pre-school children – added Xhosa words to an English picture dictionary and then taught Michael Jackson moves to the lone child visiting the C.C. (Community Center). Dot, feeling quite limber from her morning exercise, joined the thriller dance line.

Teresa put her mother hat on as one of the younger men asked her about what struggles he can expect in a serious relationship. The conversation segued into the challenges a young man faces in the village: no employment opportunities and much peer pressure to do drugs. This “Teachable Moment” centered around being a force for good for other young men.

We were joined by Rev. Vuyo, a friend of Rev. Spiwo’s who shared with us that it is natural for men to need and have at least two wives; therefore, it is legal in So. Africa. He stressed that women do not have this need and are not allowed to marry more than one man.

After our break for lunch, we returned to the C.C. for an afternoon of tutoring. Olga and James finally returned from Mthatha joining us for an afternoon of teaching map and math skills, play, and much singing and dancing. Dot was quite impressed with the curiosity of some teenagers about economic development and marital relationships. But, Olga put things into perspective best – frustrated by traffic delays in Mthatha and overwhelmed by the chaotic frenzy of the city. She was grateful for the quiet of the village, laughter of the children, and the cooperative learning taking place in the C.C.

Our final activity for the day involved a visit to the village’s Sangoma, a traditional healer. She was called to this vocation by the ancestors when she was 12 years old and accepted her calling at the age of 25. She gave us a keen insight into the strong cultural traditions and beliefs which still exist in Africa.

Back home for another Koena creation – beef stew and rice – and I ask again, “Are we really in So. Africa?”

Thought for the Day (from Teta): Life is like developing a photograph. When you have a negative, you enter the dark room to process it and end up with a positive image and a beautiful photograph. –Reggie, the cab driver

Day two, always more to do!

2010-09-06T16:29:00.002+02:00

Monday, 6 September 2010

Breakfast at 7 am and a quick morning meeting. Off to the community center where we started in on our first day of projects. The weather was very windy so none of the pre-schoolers showed up (That would never happen in Minnesota) several boys showed up to help with the painting but we had so many brushes/rollers). I brought my I-pod and speakers and I played music by Michael Jackson and the kids all went wild…painting to the music and Dot joined in the dancing (Teresa has a get video of us dancing to “Thriller” Back for a wonderful Koena lunch then back to the CC for tutoring.

I was working with several of the younger children who where coloring pictures from the Disney coloring book. I would say the animal name in Xhosa and they would say the name in English. One of the boys (Sthembele sp?) was very smart and I showed him some sign language signs and he mimicked me right back. He even used it correctly with the other children. James, Dot and Teresa # 1 worked on math with the older children. James even caught one of the older boys using his cell phone to do some of the math problems. Teresa #1 and James made paper airplanes that were a big hit as were the Frisbees and jump rope. I tried to show the girls how to do ‘crosses’, even the boys jump rope. We cleaned up and came back to some free time & planning for the next day. The teachers strike has been settled so the kids will be back in school on Wednesday.

We had a guest join us for dinner- Tobeka he is the Reception (kindergarten) teacher. Again Koena prepared us the most delicious meal: lots of chicken, Samp, spinach, potatoes, beets and fish ( I didn’t eat the fish as I didn’t want to risk an allergic reaction. Koena made me a PB & J. There were amazing dumplings, dessert, cucumbers/tomatoes.

We finished the day with a team meeting and free time. Teresa #1 made balloon figures and more paper airplanes. James played music from his computer…GLEE!!!

Now, bedtime….ahhhh zzzzzzz.

A wonderful first day!

2010-09-05T16:27:00.002+02:00

Sunday, September 5th, 2010

Created by: Theresa

What a wonderful first full day in the village of Malungeni. We filled the day with so many things! We’ve decided on what our goals for our theam 12th mission: To form lasting friendships through learning the Xhosa culture and language; we want to help the community prosper by improving the community center, and give the children hope for their future by teaching them English through play, stories and tutoring.

We met with the new local chief “Dahlislonga”(sp?) and Mama Chief, and as is custom, we were served something to eat (chicken) and the other women of the community were present. We came back to the guest house for our Xhosa language lesson that I’m sure tested Olga’s ears with our attempts at the clicking sounds used in the Xhosa language.

We were welcomed to the community through prayer, song and dance by the children and women of Malungeni. The harmonizing and vocalizations were amazing. The children swarmed Teresa D. as she passed out the photographs she had taken her last trip here in July 2009. All the children loved having their picture taken and would jump in front of each other to make sure they were in the picture. We gathered for more team building and had dinner and then organized all the supplies the team had brought from home. WOW what a load of donations we have for the children.

Thought of the day (provided by James) Flexible people are hard to bend out of shape!

Molweni! Wamkelekile!

2010-09-04T16:23:00.004+02:00

Saturday, September 4th, 2010

Created by: James

Our mission started at 5.00 am for me, Olga and Ayanda our driver – It was probably earlier for the others in the team making their way to East London!

As we drove to meet and pick up the other 3 members of ‘Team 12 Malungeni’, we were treated to a clear but chilly and brisk morning but the promise of a new and beautiful day!

I was able to take in the sights on the trip to East London. Even though it was early morning and I would be otherwise engaged in a blissful slumber, there was a myriad of activity happening from shuffling people on roadsides and town streets to domesticated animals, all busily hustling and bustling to see what this promising day had to offer. We were visually impaired at times by a wispy mist blanketing the roads and landscape-this Olga articulated was a sign of a sunny day. Nelson Mandelas old homestead stood humbly on a distant hill while his present residence, within eye sight of old, was testament to the telling journey of this South African icon.

Four and a bit hours later and we arrived at East London airport. Teresa a former South African Volunteer’s plane had landed and the passengers had already come through baggage collection. There was a joyous reunion of Teresa and Olga but for me a nice realization to meet and know that our mission was one third complete! We decided that we would ring Theresa 2 and find out whether she had in fact made it to East London the night before and that she would be joining us at 11.30 when Dot as she is known by friends arrived. By 11.45 we were all together and mission was complete. Our next mission that we chose to accept was to spend the next few hours making our way back for the return journey to our home for the next two weeks, The Guesthouse @ Malungeni. However the mission wasn’t so much the trip back but was the 5 tired and weary travelers staying awake.

The 4-5 hours spent traveling for me was a time of connection. It was great for the team bonding process to be initiated and for everyone to compare traveling and family stories. Although each and every person comes from diverse backgrounds, we are similarly entwined through actions, thought, consequence and mind – We really are quite alike!
Arrival at the guesthouse bought us more treats; while it was nice to be off the dusty, rickety gravel road that leads into the Malungeni village, we were greeted by the Global Volunteers Community Committee (which was a warm, friendly and inviting gesture), the wonderful thought of a place and pillow to lay our weary bodies and also a beautifully sumptuous home cooked meal by Koena.

The final formalities after dinner were a couple of orientation activities. We went through and introduced ourselves again but we also got to hear a little about two of our hosts – Olga and Koena. Olga also provided us with a run down of the program context in which we were giving service and talked to us about the projects where support is needed.

Thought of the day: James Puati
The seeds we sow become the crop for the future – The more we sow the greater the yield!

Our Beloved Malungeni

2010-07-30T23:00:00.000+02:00

Friday July 30, 2010- Created by Tanya

Our last day in the community was full of goodbyes and wishes for a longer stay. Since the MDumbi school was closed for a fundraiser, Ismay and Richard joined Michelle, Valerie, Anya, Susan, Kate, Deborah, and Tanya at Mbange. Tanya interviewed the principal Mr. Sihalhi while the others taught final lessons to the much beloved students. The appreciation for having Global Volunteers at the school was quite evident with thank you cards written by the students. Requests from them as to when we will return and a surprise thank you party from the teacher’s where they pulled us out of the classroom, so that we could enjoy some treats and juice.

At the community centre, Holly sang and danced her way through her last day with the preschool. Cam and Andrew joined the gang in continuing to paint the ceiling of the community centre. This time they used paint brushes on long poles instead of the air compressor.

Next preparations were underway for the final celebrations as sandwiches were made, popcorn was popped, and guests arrived. We all showed our appreciation for these last two weeks with heart felt thank yous, singing, a fashion show, and a short play performed in Xhosa and English

Afterwards, sandwiches, cookies and popcorns were passed around and the hunger in the community was evident. At dinner, the guesthouse staff joined us and we were all able to serve them for once while they had a chance to eat a leisurly dinner.

Now it is off to pack and prepare to leave our beloved Malungeni.

All good things come to an end...

2010-07-29T22:57:00.000+02:00

Friday July 29, 2010- Created by Richard

We started the day our with yet another amazing breakfast prepared by the excellent and hardworking staff. We received our marketing orders from our versatile, flexible, and dynamic group leader Tanya. The weather was a little chilly and threatening rain but this did not dampen our spirits. Excitement and anticipation filled the room as the volunteers realized that our goal was within our grasp. All that was left to do was the final two days of projects and preparation for the farewell celebration.

Richard and Ismay headed to MDumbi. Cam and Drew started out to finish the tree planting project. Michelle, Deborah, Kate, Valerie, and Anya headed to MBange. Holly was sent to the preschool. Susan was still a little under the weather. We all met back at the guest house at 1 pm. We started on our journey to Mthatha to visit the Nelson Mandela Museum. Our reliable driver was Zile. After arrival to the museum we were given a guided tour. During the tour we were refamiliarized with the greatness, courage, and stature of the man who was instrumental in leading South Africa through Apartheid and on to the world stage. It was evident that his sacrifice and selflessness as an example to millions around the world.

After the museum in Mthatha we visited Qunu, the village where Mr. Mandela grew up. The museum at Qunu was also a guided tour but some in the group chose to explore on their own. Richard, Ismay, Andrew, Cam, Tanya, and Kate went with the tour guide to the sliding rock where a young Nelson Mandela playfully slid down a rock with his friends to kill time and escape the boredom while tending his family’s cattle. The guide graciously demonstrated. A fearless Andrew soon followed. Not to be outdone group leader Tanya gave it a try. Once was just not enough for Andrew, Eh! Once again, Andrew slid down the rock. Following in his brother’s footsteps, Cam gave it a try. Finally, I gave it a try. I must admit it was exhilarating. One might even say, it was electric. We left the rock and turned the rest of the museum. Ismay and Katie made excellent cheerleader. After Qunu, we headed back, stopping at a tradition crafts place and the grocery in Mthata.

On our way home after a fun filled day, we practiced South African’s National Anthem and the group sand. Some had forgotten the words. Although it was crude and coarse sounding, we have a better idea of how to pronounce most the lyrics. We arrived back home looking forward to a trip to the tradition healer, but unfortunately she was unavailable.

Taking it in stride, the volunteers began helping the local coordinator, Olga, prepare gift bags for the children of the community. Soon it was time for a later dinner. Again, Chops and his staff fed us well.

Thought: “A person is a person through other people” –Mandela.

Visiting the elderly

2010-07-28T22:54:00.001+02:00

Thursday, July 28th, 2010- Created by Cam

Another morning means another day and another day means more time to soak up the fascinating culture of Malungeni. I think that because of the incredible hospitality, many of us may now consider this little village a home away from home. I looked forward to today for a couple of reasons. One today was the day some of us got to go on the second outing to visit the elderly. The second reason was the days break from the rigors of the tree planting project. While enjoyable, it really does wipe you out for the rest of the day.

Breakfast saw the introduction a new food, as well as the comeback of those terrific bran muffins. I found the new addition of the coconut buns quite yummy and I hope we may see more of them before we leave. After breakfast, half the team went on to their teaching positions, while those visiting the elderly had a few hours to kill. Holly, Kate, Andrew, Anya, Olga, and I headed out to meet some of the villagers we have been living amongst. The first woman was actually Sam, the groundskeeper at the guesthouses, mother. She seemed rather shy while we all sat in her living room asking her questions through Olga. I can’t help but think I would be the same way being in her shoes. She kindly answered our questions and even changed into a snazzy outfit when we asked to take her picture.

The second area we visited was home to an older couple and their daughter. We listened to stories about how the couple met, the locust infestation that obliterated most crops all over South Africa in the 40’s, and even some of the battles that used to take place between various villages. Olga also chimed in about one even she remembered when she was 10 years old. Before we gave our utmost thanks to the family for having us, we were provided with a gift bag full or 6 or 7 eggs, only proving further how gracious Malungenities are. In our final visit, we were told more stories about how the woman met her husband, and how they had a long relationship before their marriage, something they had to be very secretive about at the time. When we asked for a picture she seemed to be in agreement with Sam’s mom, and changed clothes for her portrait. When we get home, I know we plan on sending the photos back to them.

We trekked home to the guesthouse afterwards for a fairly calm rest of the day and night. Everyone discussed their days, and it seems that at the MBonge school, there was a particularly fun time had in teaching American slang to a class, with Debra taking the lead role in some skits to help explain some of the terms. The kids came later on for what some of us probably consider our daily workout and I have to say… im gonna be a fine Frisbee thrower after this trip! As of now, I’m looking forward to finishing the tree planting tomorrow and then getting back to painting. Only a few days left… let’s make the most of them!

Thought: “When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die”- Eleanor Roosevelt

“Egg-ucation” or “Which came first: the chicken or the egg”

2010-07-27T22:49:00.001+02:00

Tuesday July 27, 2010-Created by Michelle

Breakfast was quieter than usual. This lively bunch was subdued. The sounds of spoons scraping bowls of oatmeal and cereal were the dominating noise of the dining room. Many have grown mildly weary from either illness or more likely seeing the hardships of these people, or from having been in classrooms without a teacher to help. But despite our weariness we are all hoping that we are making a difference, and are eager to work on our commitments in Malungeni.

Valerie, Deborah, and I went to MBange and worked in the 8th grade. We divided the class into groups of three making for more intimate discussion time. We enjoyed hearing about their dreams and what they hope to become as adults. Olga was very helpful in bridging the gap with the principal and the team, letting him know the difficulties we’ve had being the only teachers in the classrooms. I was once again invited to play in a game of netball with the kids at break- something I certainly enjoyed.

Cam and Andrew have almost completed the making of tree enclosures. They have worked very hard to achieve this huge task. Ismay reported a two thumbs up day of teaching at the school. Richard offered a more lively report and tells me first hand that this story really is true. He ends up teaching English in the 9th grade as the principal was not there. In the middle of his English lesson, a chicken walked into his classroom. Richard claims that he kept his cool, letting the chicken do its thing. It hopped onto the desk, then up to the cabinet, then jumped on the floor in front of the class were she proceeds to make a mess and strut her stuff. She then jumps back up and lands on his bag which was on the desk. A girl in the class decides that this is too much, rescues Richard and his bag by shooing the chicken out of the classroom window. So why did the chicken walk through the door?To get back into the classroom of course! She jumps on the desk and looks at the board. Richard, trying to be humorous and be good sport, pretends he is teaching the chicken English. Except! She turns her backside to him as if to say No Thanks.

Now, this all happened before lunch. After lunch, Richard moves to the 8th grade class to teach English... And guess who made another appearance? The chicken, herself! Richard is pretty certain it was the same chicken based on its features he recognized. It hoped onto the cabinet where she sat and wanted him to teach the rest of his lesson. Toward the end of class there was some commotion at the cabinet- a girl was trying to get rid of the chicken. Lo and behold! The chicken had laid an egg on top of the cabinet. A girl scooped up the egg and mentioned that this would become a meal.

Zangezila was once again hired to take parts of the team on an outing. This time to the orphanage Mzomtsha. Those that went were impressed with the accommodations and that the kids were well provided for. The team was well received by the children and wanted them to come back and play.

Valerie and I played with some kids who came to the guest house in the afternoon- not for very long though, because the smoke from a nearby field fire was overwhelming. It was good to get out and throw the ball and watch kids jump rope. It was a lovely day.
Thought of the day:

We must imagine what would happen is the situation were reversed. What would it be like if we needed assistance in our countries, in our communities or neighborhoods? What would we do Where would we turn for help?

There are two old proverbs or sayings that come to mind: “You never know a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes”. Even though we are a week and a half into our volunteer experience We are only in the process of taking single steps in the people of Malungeni’s shoes. When we finish that step, we will be happy to rejoice in the second saying: “A Journey of a thousand miles begins with but a single step”. Let us complete our step with vigor, positive energy, and positive thought.

Exploring South Africa

2010-07-26T22:48:00.000+02:00

Monday July 26, 2010- Created by Andrew

After a stellar weekend of R & R at Coffee Bay, we returned to our volunteer routine in Malungeni. Kate and Anya are both feeling a little better and we know they will be back to their old selves in no time. Work today was productive, as far as tree planting was concerned. My brother Cam and I assisted with erecting two more tree enclosings. We have one more to go.

Sicho, Constance, and another community member assisted us, but I would like to make note of the continued determination of Montelezella and Mozalanda. Both have demonstrated beyond a doubt their ability and continued determination to work hard despite living with physical challenges and developmental delays. They are both charming young men and a credit to the community!

While working today, we were further entertained by a nearby farmer who would materialize to yell at and chase away grazing sheep off his property. The sheep kept going back and Constance explained the sheep didn’t belong to him, thus he was upset with them eating his grass.

Towards the lunch hour, I downed rubber gloves to bandage a small gash on Montezella’s ankle but the bandage seemed to keep coming off. With Richard’s kind help, we managed to make it hold with the use of gauze back at the guesthouse.

In the early afternoon, as many of the other volunteers were in Mthata for adventures in school supply shopping, Richard challenged Cameron to a gentleman’s game of chess. I couldn’t sit in as I was covered by a sticky tar like substance from the planting and has to take a cold bath. I just hope I didn’t unfairly turn the game in someone’s favor with my Richard Simmons like screaming once I entered the tub.

Several interesting activities have been planned for this week in addition to our volunteer jobs. Many thanks to Tanya to and anyone else I might have missed. I remain optimistic!

After some R& R, eager to be back!

2010-07-26T22:46:00.001+02:00

Monday July 26, 2010- Created by Ismay

Saturday, we hungrily consumed a delicious breakfast as usual prepared by chef Chops and afterwards placed our orders for some exquisite beaded jewelry from Olga. All for a good and worthy cause.

The group with bags packed excitedly boarded the van at 8:30 am for our weekend excursion to Coffee Bay. But of course, we had to stop for pictures. Richard had suggested the Malungeni welcome sign, written in Xhosa, Engnlish, and German. So, we all posed for about half an hour. Finally, we are on our journey. Along the way, we oohed and aahed and commented on the spectacular view of the South African landscape; mountains, hills, valleys, trees, no trees, colors, sand, and dirt. What a breath taking sight!

We stopped at the Masizame arts and crafts centre supported by the women in the community. At first, it seemed deserted, but as we were about to leave quite disappointedly, apparently word spread quickly through the community and one of the women mysteriously stepped out of a minibus, opened up the center and we eagerly purchased beaded jewelry and souvenirs. All for a good cause!

After about 2 hours, we arrived at the Ocean View Hotel in Coffee Bay. We immediately settled in our comfortable rooms. Some of us strolled along the beach bare food, others collected sea shells and rocks, some admired the waves, sights, and smells of the Indian Ocean. Others also did a mini tour of the area close to the hotel. Dinner was delicious and the waiters were gracious and accommodating.

Sunday, with Claus our knowledgeable and experienced driver as tour guide, we explored the area. Tanya, Richard, Ismay, Valerie, Michelle, and Deborah were in the first group. Later, Andrew, Cameron, Holly, Susan, Kate, ad Anya were in the second group. For about 2 ½ hours, Claus took us up, down, through, and around the mountains to visit the hole in the wall and raptor’s view with lots of cultural facts along the way. It was worth every rand!

We tiredly boarded the van on our return trip to Malungeni after a delightful weekend. We hope that Katie and Anya are in good health for the coming week. We promise that “what happens in Coffee Bay, stays in Coffee Bay.”

Thought (Anya)- “Youth people are capable, when aroused of bringing down the towers of oppression and raising the banners of freedom” –Nelson Mandela

End of week one...already?

2010-07-24T22:45:00.000+02:00

Friday July 24, 2010-Created by Deborah

Valerie read her journal for Thursday and Michelle contributed the message. After breakfast, the school volunteers were delivered to their schools. I worked with an 8th grade class. The principal visited and questioned me as to how the children greet me. “Do they call you teacher?” I had asked them to call me Deborah. “In our culture, they must call you ‘Miss Deborah’ or ‘Teacher’”. Miss Deborah it is.

My blackboard writing is awful, so I put the students to work with the chalk. They practiced making sentences using present and past tenses of the verb to be, also sentences using different prepositions. I noticed there is some confusion around prepositions.

I asked the principal for some books with short stories- he said he did not have enough for all the students, however, later he brought a collection of early reader books- renditions of old folk tales. They seemed to enjoy them. They learned some new words.

Just before noon, a student asked me to bring in my money on Monday. For lunch time, we made sandwiches in our kitchen and exchanged impressions of some of our experiences. At about 3:30, Susan and I took a walk turning right at the gate and down the hill. We passed a young woman coming towards us with a large basket of wet clothing on her head. She was accompanied by a collection of small children. Then we passed a large pen of goats and sheep- grasses for the sheep and plastic bottles for the goats.

A local woman appeared. She spoke English and offered to take us to see her hen house and pig sty. On the way we passed colorful round houses and ahead of us was a magnificent view of the golden rolling hills which ascended from a river (the one for doing laundry). Then we arrived at the homes of pigs and chicken, you should all see this for yourselves. We returned home where Michelle and Valerie were entertaining two children.

At 5: we all met in our usual spot, Tanya asked us to think about our first week in terms of colors, smells, and sounds, then off to delicious dinner.

Thought of the say: “The first thing to do is to give of yourself” –Rev Spiwo

Generosity, hospitality and gratefulness.

2010-07-22T22:43:00.000+02:00

Thursday July 22, 2010-Created by Valerie

There was no school for Richard and Ismay today due to a retirement party that started at 9:00. So Richard was off to get speckled with paint, along with Cam and Andrew. Once there, they also continued the long process of cleaning up the yard of the community centre. Holly had another day at the preschool there, very much like those before.

Ismay joined the others at MBonge where she taught a 9th grade class. She reports that her regularly assigned school, which is smaller, is more organized and disciplined. Susan reported a “great day”, believing that they accomplished a lot. She wants us to be reminded of being aware and careful with regard to contact with bodily fluids of children, aware that some could be infected with HIV/AIDS. Deborah had a better day, doing unplanned but well received activities. Kate had 42 children to herself but coped well and Anya received news that a husband had been selected for her. The fifth grade class shared by Michelle and Valerie participated enthusiastically in math and language.

This afternoon, most people went to Mthatha, eventually. Shopping was on the agenda. The last group arrived very late, just before the shops closed. Mthatha, late in the day, is very loud, busy, crowded, and dangerous to pedestrians. Michelle stayed behind and worked with a few children. Dinner was late, and as I write, it is late.

I think about many experiences here and know I can never really convey them to anyone who was not here. The young children fetching water, the dust, the generosity and hospitality of the elders, the hard life, the gratefulness of both students and elders. How dangerously close pedestrians are to vehicles, and how grateful students appear to be for so little. Please remind me when I complain.

Thought of the Day: “Umbuntu- the essence of being human. We think of ourselves far too frequently as just individuals, separated from one another, where you are connected and what you do affects the whole world. When you do well, it spreads out; it is for the whole of humanity” –Desmond Tutu.

~Great celebrations, big and small~

2010-07-21T22:40:00.002+02:00

Wednesday July 21, 2010- Created by Holly

Today started well with an extra hour of sleep- it was blissful. At breakfast, Michelle was surprised by a colorful birthday cake, candles of a sort, and even festive decorations. We all had a piece of cake and it was delicious.

As school was cancelled because of a teacher meeting, several volunteers trooped down the road with Andrew and Cam and went to the community centre. There they did a wonderful job of sweeping up the dust and debris and picking up glass outside. Apparently, word spread about the exciting activities at the Centre because soon groups of eager children and women joined in the cleanup. They did a wonderful job, however, once again, we were troubled by a lack of food to share with so many.

One group of volunteers visited older residents in the community and found their glimpse of life inside the round houses very interesting.

Anya cleaned up the volunteer materials and unearthed some useful materials for the classrooms. Other volunteers spent a lot of time preparing for lessons later in the week. They were interrupted by children who arrived very early and stayed for the afternoon playing Frisbee and even blowing bubbles!

Preschool was still on and the wee ones continued to enjoy dancing to CDS and learning new songs. Today, after Reverend Spiwow’s talk last night, I could feel that we were accomplishing what we came to do by participating in the life of Malungeni. I hope the feeling lasts.

Thought of the Day: (Susan)- “Is there a common language, other than music? Absolutely, there is the language of hospitality, a secular sense of honoring one another. We can meet as strangers, but we can share respect and dignity” – Yo Yo Ma.

The journey continues to unfold…

2010-07-20T22:39:00.001+02:00

Tuesday July 20, 2010 - Created by Susan

Today felt more organized and a little less anxious as we got up, had breakfast, and went to our assigned work areas- Holly to the community centre to teach her little preschool children, Susan, Anya, Deborah, Valerie, Michelle, and Kate to MBonge school, and Richard and Ismay to Upper MDumbe School. We missed Cam and Andrew at the school but they were off to assist in painting the roof of the community centre. Particular challenges noted were the difficulty in eating lunch in front of co- workers or the children as they were sent to school without anything. We also heard some painful stories. For myself, I had the first chance to teach. Little did I know that Anya and I would be left alone in the grade one class all day as the teacher decided to go home early in the day. Luckily, we had done some preparations the night before, brought some supplies, and were aided by Kate popping in a couple of times to get a new lesson off the ground. These children spoke no English but had memorized a few lines by note. It was an enriching (and tiring) experience to spend the day with them, and we felt we accomplished quite a lot.

After school, a number of children came to be “tutored” or to play, and most of the volunteers played card games and colored with the children or tutored math. Some were more physical, playing Frisbee, skipping, and soccer. Everyone seemed to have a great time and we had to usher the children out.

Before dinner, we had a valuable lesson in Xhosa, taught be Olga. She said she wasn’t going to talk to us in English anymore… Oh Dear! After dinner, we were treated to a really inspirational talk be Reverand Spiro, who shared with us his experiences growing up in Malungeni, some about his life since, and his hopes for the future. His words reinforce the importance of our presence here. Although he gave us a lot of his time, we could have listened for much longer and asked many more questions.

Tomorrow the schools are closed, so some of us will have a chance to experience some new parts of the culture while others will plan the lessons and clean the community centre. The journey continues to unfold…

Thought of the day: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right” –Henry Ford.

So exciting...our first day!

2010-07-19T22:38:00.000+02:00

Monday July 19th, 2010- Created byKate

Today was our first work day in Malungeni. Richard and Ismay set off to MDumbe to teach while Holly took on the pre-schoolers at the community centre. Cam, Andrew, Michelle, Val, Susan, and Debra headed to Mbange School while Tanya, Anya, and I walked to Langeleki school. After a little confusion, we turned around to joint he crew at Mbange. We learned that it’s important to go with the flow and we did have a nice walk.

When we arrived at Mbange, we met with the principal and the teachers. Everyone seemed very excited that we were there. We then went off to various classrooms and interacted with the students. Michelle and Val led the kids in song during recess and all the kids were excited to share some of the songs they knew.

Around noon, Michelle, Val, and Andrew headed off to Mthatha with Olga and Tanya. They picked up supplies and rendezvoused with Michelle’s suitcase. Sounded like they had a few adventures along the way. I can’t wait for tomorrow.

Thought of the day: “Be the change you wish to see in the world” –Ghandi.

Same but different...

2010-07-18T22:36:00.001+02:00

Sunday July 18, 2010- Created by Anya

Today was a day riddled with wonderful confusion and many new experiences. I am surprised by how different this community is from my own life, yet by the same token, so similar. The biggest difference that I can feel is the language barrier. I feel sorry that I cannot communicate as well as I would like.

I feel as if I am in a Quaker/Amish community because life is so simple without technology. I don’t remember the last night where after dinner I just sat on the couch of the living room without the background of television or computer around. I am surprised by how much I am enjoying it, in all honesty, and hope I can bring this simplicity back home. I am surprised at how little I miss the constant ringing of communication from my cell phone!

I wish everyone good luck tomorrow and hope that we are all anxious for no good reason. I am sure I will dream of new little African friend with whom I formed a connection without even speaking! It’s amazing…

Thought of the day: “The world in which you were born is just one model of reality. Other cultures are not failed attempts at being you; they are unique manifestations of the human spirit.”

Glad to be here!

2010-07-17T22:32:00.002+02:00

Saturday July 17th 2010- Created by Tanya

As I write this entry by candlelight, I am reminded of how lucky I am. It is as you say when you loose one of your senses, the others grow keener and I am so appreciative of what we do have here: a nice warm bed to sleep in, an indoor bathroom to use, and delicious food to eat before going to bed. These luxuries are uncommon to many.

Today has been a long, hard day for many of us no the team as we have traveled from far away places and making a variety of stops along the way. The early arrivals were able to take advantage of the wait as we stopped by the boardwalk in East London to enjoy the scenery before doing some shopping and returning to the airport to meet with the others. After creatively stuffing the van and trailer with our luggage and ourselves, we were on the road for our long journey to Malungeni. A few of us dozed without snoring too loud J. While others chatted and watched the scenery along the way.

We were greeted by a fabulous dinner cooked by Koena, Constance, and Alfred (otherwise known as Chops). During dinner, we started on orientation with introducing of the team members and out host staff along with some information. Afterwards, it was off to bed for an early start tomorrow.

Thought for the day(Valerie): Rumi tells us to sell our cleverness and buy bewilderment.

Team 10 Farewell Song: Leavin’ on a Jet Plane

2010-03-19T20:48:00.003+02:00

Our bags are packed, we’re ready to go
We’re standing here, outside our door
We want to take this time to say Goodbye . . .
The dawn will break, we’ll have to go
We’re sad to leave, we love you so
Already we’re so lonesome, we could cry . . .
So miss us and smile for us,
Tell us you’ll remember us,
We’ll hold you in our hearts while we’re away . . .
We’re leavin’ - on a jet plane,
Don’t know when we’ll be back again . . .
Oh how we hate to go . . .
So miss us and smile for us,
Tell us you’ll remember us,

We’ll hold you in our hearts while we’re away . . .
We’re leavin’ - on a jet plane,
Don’t know when we’ll be back again . . .
Oh how we hate to go . . .
We’ll miss you so.

Friday, March 19, 2010

2010-03-19T20:42:00.000+02:00

The sun is shining with puffy white clouds in a beautiful blue sky. Rev. Spiro and his guests left at 9 a.m. and a gentle quiet fell over the grounds and our guest house. Nancy off to R/1 and her little darlings. Anita off to pre-school and her wee ones. Kathy off to Upper Mdumbi and her teenagers, and Tai off to build the final five enclosures – which leaves Judy bent over her sewing of skirts and the often temperamental sewing machine. Upon Tai’s return, covered with dirt, she bathed and started her “report” writing while listening to music – a lovely way to work.

One by one the “Teachas” returned, we ate lunch and Kathy and Judy went for an hour walk through the village in the bright sunshine, Kathy snapping pictures along the way. One particularly fun shot of a horse taking a siesta on his owner’s covered porch – I think it was the only shady spot – I’d call that good “horse sense”. Next Kathy spots a sign in a wooded area which read “Voting Station” – only a house nearby as far as we could see. The rolling hills so beautiful – difficult, if not impossible, to truly appreciate from a snapshot – however the picture will bring back the memory of such picturesque countryside.

At 1:30, two ladies from the village came to show us how to do beading. Some of us had fun with it and some chose to observe. After a bit, 3 more ladies joined the first 2 and it was an old fashioned sewing circle, listening to Xhosa being spoken a mile a minute and watching the ladies laugh with each other while a few of us struggled with needles, thread and beads. The ladies stayed as long as they could until Olga finally suggested it was time for them to go home. While the ladies giggled outside we began the task of filling bags to hand out at tomorrow’s farewell party – 100 gift bags for the various ages.

Lovely dinner, back to practice our goodbye song and a lively game of UNO.

All is well – we will miss our daily interactions and camaraderie – It’s been a wonderful experience for us all.

Message of the Day: Poverty is an economic state, not an emotional state.

By Judy

Thursday, March 18, 2010

2010-03-18T20:38:00.002+02:00

St. Patrick’s Day! Malungeni is so much home to me now that I forgot about green beer and dying the Chicago River green. The small things mean so much – Anita spent time teaching a preschooler to kick a ball, Nancy held hands with 4 little ones on the way home and helped Grade 1ers cut and paste. Judy valiantly struggled with a too tight bobbin making one-size-fits-all dance skirts. Kathy learned about waiting (and saw the real meaning of Beauty and the Stick).

It rained so hard last night that mud puddles replaced potholes as the road hazard of choice. Nancy braved Langalakhe School solo and people wondered where the other ladies were. And people are still asking where Jackie is, 5 days after she left. I’m still marveling at all the wonderfully odd juxtapositions here, most notably a Southern Baptist minister showing us card tricks, including dealing off the bottom of the deck. No tutoring today because Rev. Spiro had a big community meeting – our best part was a wonderful Xhosa dance troupe which the children loved too and tried to emulate. We also sat in on a meeting Rev. Spiro had with Cromwell who was not pleased – talk about a verbal “dressing down”, complete with veiled treats about “other schools”. Pretty awkward feeling to be in the middle of them! After the meeting we visited Pat the Sangoma who graciously shared stories of how she came to her profession and her symbiotic relationship with the medical profession here (and coincidentally, Nancy and she knew two other sangomas in common!). After a wonderful dinner with the Florida people and the sangoma, we returned to our house to help hang laundry to dry followed by a spirited game of Uno – I personally can’t bear the thought of only two more days. There is so very much I will miss about the extraordinary group of people and lovely scenery and livestock! Baa for now.

Message of the Day: Development is about planting trees, even if you never sit under their shade.

By Nancy

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

2010-03-17T20:34:00.002+02:00

It’s a new day for Judy and Anita as they embarked on their new work projects – Judy to tutor at the Upper Mdumbi School and Anita to work at the preschool. Left for another day is how the Lanaglakhe School will respond to the exodus of volunteers . . . It is a short day at Langalakhe School and a long day at Upper Mdumbi. The day being warmer and brighter than yesterday, quite a few children of various ages show up for tutoring which turns out to be a relatively calm and organized affair, with flashcards (LOVE the Balloon flashcards, which can magically be adapted for all ages!), along with stories, singing and dancing.

Dinner is another well-cooked meal, this time shared with Rev. Spiro and his houseguests. It is interesting to share our experiences in Malungheni and get a perspective on the churches’ missionary work in developing counties. The highlight of the evening is our team effort to customize a song to sing at our farewell – with choreography to follow . . . Here’s hoping no one has a video camera!!

Message of the Day: “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it”. Helen Keller.

By Kathy

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

2010-03-16T20:30:00.002+02:00

With the new week, a change in climate from sunny and hot to overcast and cool, and a man in the house, the focus and dynamics turned about a bit. The goals still remained to be open to change, to serve the community, to share cultures and to experience South Africa through Malungeni; we discussed these tonight. We missed our two team members who departed on Saturday, so with just four of us, we did have to reorient ourselves. Now Kathy went alone to her school without Abigail, and Jackie no longer is part of the group who supports the Langalakhe School It was agreed that Anita and Judy would stay in Grades 2-3 from 8-12 and sign out. Beauty was with them and with a few choice words, Lola spoke to the children about being well behaved and respect for their teachers. I must say the class was better behaved saved for a few boys in the third grade who, when asked by Judy to show her how many crayons they had, looked right at her and “No!”. Nancy is enjoying her class with Tobeka and is being challenged and is supporting her with her own suggestions for learning. Nancy’s joy is infectious and inspiring.

While Olga and Tai replenished supplies in Mthata, we four were eager for just Reception to Grade 5 to arrive just from 3:30 to 4:30. After a great deal of prep thinking about holding our “stations” in the garage, not one child appeared! Are they like sheep? Did the message not get relayed? Oh well! Tomorrow the upper grades are invited and therefore we must find the appropriate material. There was talk of sewing, but we are wondering if Kowena will find time to do this with all the guests who have arrived with Spiro from Pensacola, FL. Tomorrow is another day and we will await its opportunities and go forth!

Message of the Day: “The spirit of Ubuntu – that profound African sense that we are human only through the humanity of other human beings – has added globally to our common search for a better world”. Nelson Mandela.

By Anita

Monday, March 15, 2010

2010-03-15T20:26:00.001+02:00

Teachers, Teachers

Teachas, Teachas, what did you see?
A van with girls as happy as can be!
We’re off to play down by the sea . . .
But OH those roads were so BUMPY!!!
Some rest, some food, a little wine maybe,
And best of all HOT SHOWERS . . . Yippee!

Teachas, Teachas, please don’t go . . .
You’re par t of our team as you well know.
So stay awhile and don’t say “No” . . .
Cause if you’re gone we’ll feel so low.

Teachas, Teachas now we’re sad . . .
Cause off you went and that’s too bad.
So now there’s four and we’ll be glad
To be the BEST Tai’s ever had!

Teachas, Teachas, what did you do?
We walked on the beach at Ocean View.
We climbed on the rocks and picked up shells
And watched the ocean’s waves big swells.
The sand felt good on all our toes . . .
As we skipped through the water when the tide was low.

Teachas, Teachas what did you play?
We played some Scrabble later that day . . .
While sweet dogs at our feet did lay.
That night the rain just poured, I’d say.

Teachas, Teachas was that all?
Oh No! . . . went next to the Hole in the Wall.
The path was narrow, the trees were tall.
The cows on the beach had us enthralled!

Teachas, Teachas is there more?
Only roads with potholes making our back sore.
On the ride home the rain did pour –
And four happy women walked through this door!

Message of the Day: Be the change you want to see in the world. Gandhi.

By Judy

Friday, March 12, 2010

2010-03-12T20:18:00.003+02:00

Another day full of adventures on Thursday! It was meant to be only 2 hours of school from 8 to 10 due to a teacher’s prayer meeting. As we approached the school a wee bit late at 8:15, who should we see but Tobeca and Mavis, the Lunch Lady, leaving the school! Which meant that the kids in R-1 were all alone!! Sure enough, when Tai and Abigail and I walked in to children rising and saying “Good morning Teacher”, these precious 5-6 year olds were all alone. After an initial (first) panic, I asked them to sing a song for us. Then I was on my own. Now what? We did the alphabet song and flashcard animals and such and I thought I was doing quite well – UNTIL one by one, THEY STARTED CRYING! Panicking, virgin teacher Nancy ran to Auntie Judy and beseeched her for help. A bit of outside playtime and “freeform” drawing got us through the crisis. (But another alone day tomorrow has me terrified). After school, we visited the preschool where Abigail and Kathy were happily interacting with the most adorable children and my heart sang when their lovely teacher Capsai led them singing Nkosi Sikelele Afrika! Next up – cleaning the Community Center – which reinforces why Nancy is Not a Good Cleaner. Ladies from the community helped us sweep and mop and then apply a coat of a most ingenious “polish” – vegetable oil added to water. The word was that that After School Children arrived EARLY – and we came back to controlled (mostly) chaos of coloring – for Kathy’s Preschool Décor project and “independent art projects” . Because we have a date at the sangoma, we “dismissed” them early, at 4 p.m. But then, the best laid plans. . . the sangoma was caught in traffic (culture clash!) and was running late. So we decided to have her join us for dinner first – she arrived and we carefully chose her seat for her – she politely sat and then said “But I can’t stay” – oh well – because she had patients. Sort of a sangoma ER. Another wonderfully tiring day full of blue skies, breezes, and the quiet tranquility of the countryside. We love it here with all our new umhlobos.

Message of the Day: Sometimes a smile is all the Xhosa you need.

By Nancy

Thursday, March 11, 2010

2010-03-11T20:12:00.000+02:00

Another day at school, and the first day of teaching for Abigail and Kathy at the Upper Mdumbi School. We have been assigned to teach the older students (grade 8 and 9) and while they may not understand our speech, they are very respectful and attentive. It is a different story at the Langalakhe School, where volunteers often rely on the teachers to maintain discipline and order through their time-tested methods (i.e., Beauty and the Stick). Even at the preschool, the teachers have a creative way of keeping the children in line (“call the police!”). The school calendar continues to be a very fluid concept – while having lunch at the Upper Mdumbi school and discussing with the teachers the lesson plans for the next sessions and the following day, the plan changes mid-sentence when we learn that the learners will have prayer for the rest of the day, and school will be closed tomorrow (the Langalakhe School will be open briefly). A break from preparing lesson plans – ahhhhh. We continue to plan our weekend at Coffee Bay – with ocean view accommodations and a pool!

A lively discussion at our dinner meeting about the focus on rote learning (“its’ all about the checks and the red pens”) versus creativity and independent thinking. After school, the kids seemed to enjoy some quieter activities with coloring, collages, and activity books. We continue to enjoy our daily experiences with the animals that roam freely and peacefully all around us – including today a line of geese traveling down the road behind the three steer (they stayed on their side of the gate today). Looking forward to our flexible day tomorrow.

Message of the day: We can do no great things, only small things with great love. Mother Theresa.

By Kathy

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

2010-03-10T20:07:00.002+02:00

So, on to Day Two of volunteering. Again, Nancy is in R-1 with Tobecka while Anita and Judy are co-teaching grade 2-3. Jackie is working with Lola in grade 4. For the first time, Abigail and Kathy were transported to Mdumbi School where they observed 8th grade Social Science and now need to prepare lessons on sustainability and technology, and settlements. They really enjoyed their time there and Mr. Momosa was very welcoming to them. Following too short a nap and recovery from an 8-2 day, the high school kids arrived for help and discussion, then the younger ones arrived for songs, games, jump rope, ball playing and letting off steam. I believe we are feeling more at ease with our situations knowing we are contributing immensely in the lives of these students. Some are so very bright and articulate while others are falling behind in a larger group.

I particularly enjoyed the breaks and lunch time! Watching the 10 a.m. break outside our classroom with lots of kids crouching against the building eating pappab and a gravy from their boxes they have brought in their backpacks. Another group was fed at noon and this group enjoyed just large pieces of bread. After each feast, the sheep and a lone dog gob bled up the leftovers. Lots of wildlife – well, not so wild – on the school grounds – a beautiful gang of multicolored goats arrived which the children loved to scamper after, cameras will be brought each day for me. So many opportunities to capture life in Malungeni. Mom and Grandma walking their little girl to preschool, Mom balancing a large water bottle on her head while child drank from a quite sophisticated one herself. We met cattle and sheep being driven to their grazing lands while the ducks squalk and strut at the pond. Mr. Ndumiso came for a formal dinner in the dining room and charged us with visiting the Chief for a meeting on a weekend to help him understand the need to instill a love of education if ever Malungeni is to rise up from poverty. He was most enlightening and forthright. What a remarkable Day 4!

Message of the Day: Always is never true; Never is always false. The Gift of Time.

By Anita

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

2010-03-09T19:44:00.001+02:00

Day 1 of volunteering – Today was our first day of school. On our way in, we were greeted by Cromwell (the principal) who was on his way out. He stopped to welcome us and give us instructions for the day. None of these instructions were followed, though we tried our best. All of us were separated into classrooms as the day began. During the first break of the day, the teachers met with us to welcome us, give thanks and information about our new place of work. They were grateful for our presence and concerned for the state of their understaffed school.
With that, we were off to teach and learn. The classrooms were a bit of everything I expected and nothing at all what I expected. The children were friendly, playful, eager, bold, pleasant and in need of all our attention. At 1:45 were saved by the bell. Not long after leaving the children at school came to us again at the guesthouse. More and more children came with smiles and questions to be tutored and build friendships. We worked on debate, algebra, and most importantly, jumping rope (even reading a book about Barack Obama whom the children asked to learn about). We finished the night with a great meal of chicken, veggies, and ground maize, and a glance at the vast, beautiful night sky.

Message of the Day: “A human being is a part of the whole called by us ‘the universe’. A part limited in time and space. [S]he experiences [her]self, her thoughts and feelings as separate from the rest – a kind of optical delusion of consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and affections for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this person by widening the circle of understanding and compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty”. Albert Einstein.

By Jackie

Monday, March 7, 2010

2010-03-07T19:37:00.002+02:00

Day 0 of volunteering. This morning we were able to sleep in a bit and then set our sleepy selves outside at the table to eat our buffet breakfast – eggs, toast, porridge, cereals, teas, coffee. An impressive display. Orientation after breakfast defining Global Volunteers' guidelines, volunteer goals and our group goals. Olga gave us a Xhosa lesson and we all struggled to learn “Hello”, “How are you?”, “Where do you come from?” which we got to practice while on our walk through Malungeni. We met many people in the road, most very eager to say Molweni to us. Olga showed us the bakery, the school and we visited the vice chief during his lunch which he ate from a tray on his lap. His house was a welcome reprieve from the sun and he welcomed us as he sipped his tea and ate his bread. We walked back through the tall grass back to the main road where Tai and I skipped down the road holding hands with a boy with special needs. A special need to hold hands.

All of us were bushed at lunch and some of us sun kissed but we were able to enjoy a homemade stew and some leftover mutton. After lunch the community came to the house to welcome us. The local ladies dressed in skirts with hats or scarves on their heads sat in a line while the children huddled in a group. We sat together while the local women offered a prayer and songs of welcome. A few of the women struggling with English thanked us for being here and expressed their gratitude to us for teaching their children English. I felt overwhelmed by the importance these women assigned to the English education of their children and embarrassed at my negligence of understanding this priority before. We were entertained by groups of girls in skirts who showed off their moves holding sticks representing spears. Olga tried to get the boys who work in the garden to dance for us but they were too shy.

When the community went home we were later greeted by a couple of black steers that came into our yard (uninvited) to eat something tasty from the garden. Tai shooed one steer out like a pro and the other left not long after, right through the gate onto the road.

Message of the Day: “Life is short. In the meantime, Live Big, my friend, Live Big”. Denny Crain, Boston Legal.

By Abigail

Friday, Aug. 7, 2009

2009-08-07T17:57:00.004+02:00

“Just be what you are and speak from your guts and heart. It’s all a person has.” - Hubert H. Humphrey

Sunny, breezy, our final day filled with mixed feelings. We are ready to leave but also realize that it is unlikely we will ever see any of our new friends again or even know how things are going for them. They have given us many memories to take home.

The short school day was pretty much as usual, although saying goodbye was underneath it all. At 10 a.m., classes ceased and chairs were arranged outside. The principal, a 9^th-grader and Barb all spoke. Songs by the students and teachers, followed by one from the GVers. Goodbye cards made by the students were presented to each of us. Global Volunteers then had cookies (biscuits) and suckers for all the students. And so ended our teaching experience in Malungeni.

A highlight of our whole trip was a visit to two more homes. The first home was that of Rev. Spiwo’s mother, an alert 87-year-old. Her granddaughter, one of our students, stays with her. The next visit was to the home and surrounding buildings of an elderly couple. They sent some eggs home with us in appreciation of our visit. We felt these visits to be a brief look at the life of some of the people of Malungeni. An interesting tidbit we learned was that the men and unmarried women sit in chairs; the married women sit on mats on the floor.

A small farewell party was planned for 3 p.m. But due to an intentional grass fire getting out of control and perhaps the chief deciding not to come, the festivity began at 4:30 p.m. Rev. Spiwo, Olga, Barb and Bonke briefly spoke and expressed for all the appreciation we have for learning of other cultures. Some food and drink was supplied.

Later we saw the huge spread of the grassfire on the hills. A charcoal-broiled steak dinner was planned but not started til late. Then a wonderful dinner with Olga, Koena, and Bonke eating with us and talking about how much these three weeks have meant to us. We are so lucky to have had this experience.

Bon voyage to all,

Mona

Addendum by Barb (shared at our last meal together): Never ever doubt what a wonderful gift you have given to the people of Malungeni. Thank you for your good humor, patience, compassion and dedication on this the sixth Global Volunteers team. You have been a terrific team and I’m so honored to have served with you.

Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009

2009-08-04T17:52:00.001+02:00

“It’s the sides of the mountain that support life, not the top.”

Breakfast- served at 7 am on the dot. Excellent as usual. Off to school at 7:45 a.m. Beautiful day, warm and sunny. Learners (students) at school are getting very comfortable with the team. They are respectful but are beginning to act like kids everywhere.

The teachers are friendly – and seem more than willing to share teaching responsibilities with us. Fifth- and sixth-graders are still doing fractions in math – wide variation in student success – but they all seem eager.

Mona joined us for English and we divided into three reading groups. Michael Jackson was mentioned in their reading book and the kids were very interested in reading about him in our copy of People magazine.

The kindergarten sang and danced and had great fun. They are learning lots of new songs.

The tile and tree projects are both nearing completion. Job well done… Kudos to those involved.

At 1 p.m. – we all went to Mthatha to tie up loose ends, i.e., shopping – soccer jersey, music, fabric, ice cream, pictures, computer repair, museum, internet café, etc.

We also bought lots of groceries. Mthatha has been teeming with people on every visit. Streets, mall and especially the grocery store were packed with people.

While waiting for our pickup (transportation), we conversed with 3 nice young men who were eager to practice their English and to quiz Deborah about America.

The most amazing thing about them was that none of them knew Bonke!

Late supper, reading and cribbage and off to bed! Another full, fun, tiring day!

-Submitted by Don

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

2009-07-29T17:36:00.005+02:00

Version I: “Gentleness and a sense of humor will help you overcome many things.”

Version II: “Gentleness and a sense of humor – and a crowbar – will help you overcome many things!”

This morning, breakfast included freshly baked bread and many of us ate nothing else but the bread – bread and butter, bread and jam, bread and peanut butter – bread and more bread.

Five of us headed to school where it appeared that all of the teachers also appeared. Margaret and Deborah taught Grade R children how to play marbles. Mona was politely informed by the teacher of grades 1 to 3 that her services were no longer needed. Mona joined Grade R and assisted Deborah and Margaret with entertaining the little ones.

Don and Sara struggled along with their students to master South African math. They were impressed with a story the children read which honestly addressed the issues of AIDS, death, abandonment, loving rescue and giving back – very different from our Dick and Jane stories in America.

Meanwhile back at the guesthouse, Barbara, Rachel and Teresa completed the puzzle – much to Margaret’s disappointment. Rachel, feeling under the weather, remained at the guesthouse most of the day, venturing out later when the children arrived for tutoring.

Barbara spent another day in the car, getting cement for the tile men and also assisted with the post-hole project.

Teresa spent the morning with members of the bakery cooperative as they completed the paperwork to apply for certification. Mr. Spiwe from SEDA (Small Enterprise Development Agency) walked them through the key principles of a cooperative and copied templates for a business plan and financial statements to Olga’s computer.

After our routine water brigade of refilling the indoor water barrels, children of all ages showed up for tutoring and play, keeping us all busy until dinnertime. We enjoyed another meal of our favorite mincemeat meatloaf; then the lights went out! We laughed over candlelight and the lights came back on within the half hour. With the puzzle completed, we entertained ourselves with other activities – cribbage, solitaire, knitting, journal reading – life is tough in Malungeni. We are settling in to our routines and it will not be easy to leave or say goodbye.

Respectfully submitted -- Teresa

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

2009-07-28T16:29:00.008+02:00

"Shake things up!" Spar Superstore receipt

We seem to be 'clicking as a team. We are greeted by a sunny, bright morning full of promise! A hearty breakfast and then it's off to school. Tailing the other volunteers, Rachel and I head to school a bit late and spend an hour distracting the children. We catch the older ones outside their classroom and have fun taking photos of their beautiful faces.

Hilda the cleaning lady also strikes a pose! Then it's back to the guesthouse to join "Seeko" and the labor crew on the fencing project. Our tiling expert arrives and provides an estimate for the finishing the stage of the ommunity center. He's availible this week -- so we all may be spending Friday afternoon tiling!

Barb and Bonke head to town for cement and food! Oh, the miles we log! It’s always an obstacle course on East Cape highways – if it’s not a stray lamb, it’s a loose steer, broken-down bus or clutches of schoolkids! All this drama contrasts with the lovely, spacious hills and valleys that seem to stretch endlessly under the South African sky.

School highlights – Teresa was impressed when the little girls in Grade R (K) role-played as “mamas,” wrapping their dolls around their backs and carrying them that way all day! She also had fun teaching grades 7-9 how to interview for jobs. Mona tackled the challenging subject of race relations in America as her assignment today! Wow! Her own family is a mini-lesson in diversity that continues to impress the children.

Other highlights – Margaret finished a terrific Stephanie Meyer book so that Deborah can delve into it. Don says he put “29 crucial pieces” in the puzzle but don’t believe it!

Rachel enjoyed talking to one of the laborers – Kaya – and learning about family relations and ages in South Africa – i.e., how a little brother can be a big brother and how one’s family stretches infinitely or whatever….

Don also was impressed that there is a “middle class” in Malungeni, as witnessed in a home visit that he, Sara, Rachel and Teresa made today. Sara noted how the kitchen in many households is located in a separate building.

While they were visiting with Bonke the abovementioned home, Mona, Margaret and Barb tutored and entertained and played with at least 30 rambunctious children at the guesthouse. What a delight!

A highlight of the evening was enjoying a special dinner with the Ngqeleni Police Chief Donnie Kettledas, his wife Sharon, daughter Jennie Lee and grandson Tristan. They shared lots of info about the East Cape region. They were our special quests. Very pleasant and enjoyable. Koena and Olga outdid themselves with a speical special meal of spinach, beans, beef, potatoes, carrots and other delights. We talked and laughed and got silly with photos. A good finish to a good day!

-Submitted by Barb

Monday, July 27, 2009

2009-07-27T18:55:00.003+02:00

“Life is great. Enjoy every moment.” – Wimpy’s receipt

A nutritious breakfast (eggs, toast, cereal, yogurt, oatmeal and juice) got the day off to a good start. This was the first day without Dan and Bob – they left yesterday – the team misses them as they both added a lot.

We discussed the great weekend and then left for school. Nice long walk to school today – the weather is warmer and no wind, so walking was pleasurable.

It was a good day at school. Everyone is getting more used to the routine. Sara and Don observed Xhosa lesson and then assisted with math. The kids are well mannered and attentive. During morning break, volunteers got to play a local kids’ game – Love My Teddy Bear. Everyone gets in a circle, one is selected to dance and clap in the center – great fun!

After school, we relaxed and at 3 p.m. we accepted the Rev. Bashe’s invitation to visit an orphanage in Ngqeleni. Transportation consisted of riding in the back of a small truck with a topper on it (great for team bonding), i.e., we all felt like illegal immigrants being smuggled someplace! After a short bumpy ride, we arrived at the orphanage. The grounds were attractive and the children seemed happy. We got to meet some of the 60 children living there and a staff member gave us a comprehensive tour.

After the orphanage, we toured the police station at the invitation of Police Chief Donnie Kettledas. Interesting tour! We got to see the whole station, including the cells of the prisoners. After the tour, we piled back in the truck for a short ride home.

Excellent dinner —the cooks are really fantastic – and after some good conversation, we adjourned to the guesthouse “game room.” The puzzle brigade went right to work —good progress on puzzle.

Deborah took Don’s measure in cribbage, winning two out of three – to everyone’s (except Don’s) delight! Early bedtime for everyone.

Submitted by Don

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

2009-07-22T18:43:00.002+02:00

“Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what there is.” – Ernest Hemingway

Our sumptuous breakfast included some delicious muffins. Then off to school. Don and I had a teacher in our classroom for about ½ hour – finishing up English and teaching addition and subtraction of fractions. We took over from there, finishing math, reviewing the continents, the oceans, the countries of South Africa and North America. Mona joined us after break and we broke into three groups for conversation groups. So essentially we were substitute teachers.

Rachel both helped dig postholes and took items to the preschool where she’ll help tomorrow. Mona talked her older students into being microbiologists. The youngest kids mixed paint and colors. The highlight of the break was the kite Teresa brought.

The posthole project replaced the tile project since the proper flooring material wasn’t available. They’re digging postholes to fence off areas to protect trees they plan to plant along the road.

The afternoon was spent sleeping, reading and working puzzles and the evening playing Uno or heading off to bed.

PS. Bonke shared his life story with us at dinner. After being hit on the head with an ax and spending months in the hospital, the doctor told him he shouldn’t go to school anymore because of his brain injury. Despite that, he trained and worked as a peer tutor and finally returned to high school and passed his exams. He plans to start nurses training at the University in Mthatha or Capetown next year.
– Submitted by Sara

Sunday, July 19, 2009

2009-07-19T18:27:00.003+02:00

“No gift given in love and accepted in gratitude is small” - Anonymous

After a full night’s sleep (the first for many on the team) and an all-American (or is it South African) breakfast, we commenced our orientation. Despite much talking and getting off track, we managed to set our goals for this service program, which are: to be an ambassador, to meet new people and build friendships, to learn about the culture and environment; to serve the community and to have fun.

This team loves to laugh so we met our final goal immediately, which led us to define our characteristics of an effective team. We adopted Don’s acronym for Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM) and outlined the characteristics as:
Gentleness, sense of humor, communication with tact and kindness, trust and honesty, respect, consideration, listening, doing one’s share, responsibility, common courtesy, enthusiasm, flexibility, cooperation, patience, teamwork and lots of smiles.

As topics arose, we volunteered for (or were assigned to) various responsibilities.
Rachel will serve as social director for our free time activities.
Teresa will type up the journal. (Editor note: change to Barb)
Mona will oversee health and safety.
Deborah will plan the 2-week departure celebration.
Dan will plan the 3-week celebration with an assist from Mona.
Don will help Barbara after Bob leaves.

The rest of the morning and early afternoon consisted of policies, code of conduct and a basic language lesson from Bonke. Bonke also provided some insight on cultural issues, making sure that Dan understood he may not kiss another man’s wife and most definitely never hug another man.

We broke again for another American meal – PB&Js – yum! Then off to a truly African experience.

The village elders, children and other members of the Malungeni village welcomed us to their community with song and dance. Children sang happy birthday to Mandela. Women performed traditional dance, and children took turns showing us that the dance skills begin at a very early age.

We were struck by the incredible respect the younger people show for their elders – bringing them food and water – and the sense of community among all ages. Caring for the elderly, waiting their turn to eat, serving others and cleaning up – all participated and seemed to know their place. We all shared a meal of sampa (beans and potatoes) dressed with a delicious sauce of sausage, flour and spices.

Afterwards, Bonke took us on a short tour of a few key places:
A small public store where Dan can buy candy.
a community center where we might conduct a tiling project;
The school grounds
And a few churches.

We returned to the guesthouse where Rachel shared the wonderful teaching supplies she brought. The items never seemed to end as she continued to reach into her duffel bag, pulling a rabbit out of the hat each time. Mona added to the pile with games and books.

We headed off to dinner and word games – which we all passed with a little help from our friends.

Some of the highlights of the day –
Herding sheep with a whistle;
Marking sheep with paint rather than branding;
A village woman’s cell phone ringing in the middle of a traditional African dance;
Member of the youth council (saying) – the young people convinced the elders to allow Global Volunteers;
That we have electricity on demand;
Mahzywi telling us he thought the U.S. included North and South America!
Nkuli’s comment that it took an African to run the United States!
We are in area 1 of Malungeni with a population of about 600.

It was a long, full day with half the team retiring right after dinner and the other half talking long into the night with hopes of solving the economy and the U.S. healthcare system. We’ll see….

As dogs bark in the distance and I survey the galaxy of stars from the perspective of the Southern Hemisphere, I realize it is now time for bed…
Respectfully submitted,
Teresa

March 27, 2009

2009-05-08T14:35:00.000+02:00

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” (Nelson Mandela)

Our last day to be with friends we have made in the past two weeks. There were a lot thoughts, ideas, plans, wishes we wanted to express on this day. Our minds racing, our hearts beating faster, and waiting for the tears to come.

We seemed to walk at a slower pace to school this morning. Maybe it was our fear of goodbye. As we arrived at school hugs were shared, thoughts expressed, feeling flowed.

The children wanted one last glimpse of us, to be in a picture, just to hold our hands.

We hoped that we left a special gift in this community from each of us in a special way.

“Hope” – we can only hope we made an impact on their lives. We came with love, friendship, knowledge and peace – and that we have accomplished.

There are too many feelings to express the joy we have received during our farewell. I hate the word farewell. There cannot be a goodbye in this community. The need is great for us here.

This community has given me “hope” that there is peace and love.

Although it is hard to return home there will others to follow in our footsteps. I end our journal with love that is left, peace in my heart and tears in my eyes.

- Jason Mullen

March 26, 2009

2009-05-08T14:26:00.000+02:00

“There is only one way in which one can endure man’s inhumanity to man, and that is to try, in one’s own life, to exemplify man’s humanity to man.” (Alan Paton)

Today Amy and Tiffany continued to work with Cromwell on English and correcting students work. Jason was rounding up globes, maps, etc., anything he could get his hands on to corral the little ones – teaching them geography. Our life skills class went okay – we were hoping to get a bit more out of the students to create an ‘open discussion’ but cultural norms got in the way. If nothing else we opened the door for them to ask us any questions for the last few days we are here. We then left for Mthatha where we had a field trip to the Nelson Mandela Hospital. It was a great experience - it was a very large facility – we stopped by the women’s mental health wards were we greeted by smiling faces – then onto HIV/AIDS clinic. They are in the process of building a larger facility but for now they are in the “trailers”. We spoke with the doctor in charge of the clinic and he was very insightful about HIV/AIDS in South Africa – the meds work – we saw the t-cell numbers. They struggle with disclosure, transportation, side effects and finances. The doctor that took us around was very nice – Dr. Madikizela – who is from Malungeni originally. Tiffany asked if he would be willing to come back to Malungeni with the July team and speak to the students about HIV/AIDS and his success. A good last full day and we look forward to the celebrations tomorrow.

- Amy Keegan

March 24, 2009

2009-05-08T14:14:00.000+02:00

"Do your little bit of good where you are; its those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world." - Nelson Mandela

We did our little bit of good today and we are hoping to overwhelm Malungeni if not the world. Today was a great day. I think today was a turning point for all of us in this journey. Week one was all about planting seeds and today it was about watching the tree grow, tomorrow will be about see it blossom. This afternoon we met with the women's group again. It was fitting that we were discussing how to give birth to a new Malungeni community in the front lawn of our guest house, sitting in a circle around a tree spud ling that is determined to grow. Sitting there while Amy inspired the women by introducing the barter system to them as a means to grow their veg patch, I thought, these women are just that the growing tree. They needed the tools or the means to grow their business just as this tree needs water and sun to survive. Something so simple and basic has never occurred to them. They seemed to embrace the idea and I believe they were excited to 1. have their land plowed and 2. That they were going to collaborate with someone in the community they previously didn't think would help them. We went to survey the field as well today and plowing began! To me this was victorious. What a great example of community unity and as the local preacher would say "loving thy neighbor". We are excited and hopeful that the women's group now only plants seeds for growing corn, squash, spinach and cabbage on their fields, but will also continue to plant seeds of change throughout Malungeni.

- Tiffany Strietelmeier

March 18, 2009

2009-05-08T08:45:00.000+02:00

“It is thy own resolution to succeed that matters the most” (Abraham Lincoln).

Today was our third day of school. We woke to a morning of cool weather around too. We met for breakfast and to say the thought for the day. I chose a quote from an extraordinary woman with instant inspiration, love and dedication – Mother Teresa.

“Keep the joy of loving the poor and share the joy with all you meet. Remember works of love are works of peace”.

As we finished breakfast and started our walk to class we briefly discussed our lesson plans. Amy, Tiffany and Dorota are going to try to tackle their classes in a different fashion today. As for myself I would continue teaching/tutoring the first, second and third grades with Ms. Beauty.

We returned to the guest house to meet Olga. She wanted to show us her great accomplishment of the near finished bakery. The space has much potential and we believe it will be successful when up and running.

We continued on our day cleaning the community center for the upcoming events. As we finished with cleaning I spoke with Rebecca who I believe will be a leader in her community, a role model to others. She plans on continuing her education and to probably become a flight attendant. She has great passion for meeting people and learning.

I ended the day with the sun setting, the cool air to return, and with a heart warming song of ‘Amazing Grace’ sung by am amazing young lady named Peels.

This is when I decided that my gift to the community would be my faith, my love and dedication for the reminder of my stay.

-Jason Mullen

March 15, 2009 - Welcome to Malungeni!

2009-05-08T08:38:00.000+02:00

"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart". (Nelson Mandela).

Molweni or welcome in xhosa. (Xhosa is pronounced with a tongue click and then kosa). This is the native language of the people of Malugeni. Many of whom we met today. We were so pleased to be greeted in the mid afternoon by some of the community members that came to our guest house. We sat in a half circle and were led by Nkulie who translated the event. We were greeted by members of the Dept of Ed, and Social Services, as well as high tribal leaders of the community. All of which expressed thanks for our commitment to the community and hope for continued success with Global Volunteers. They expressed how important working together has been, is and will be great benefit to the community. From their talks, they are just as interested in learning from us and we are from them. As Bonke so eloquently stated earlier in the day, "It is always good to check your angles on all things". What he meant by this was the importance of a different perspective. Yesterday the minister of the town said " knowledge is power" and power is so important for this community to help "fight the enemy which is poverty" , as passionately stated by the leader of the DOE. We were asked to give an introduction and then we sang " You are my sunshine" as best as we could on the fly. The ceremonies ended with traditional dance from the women and kids. Their faces painted and with woven skirts on they danced in step to the drum. With arms stretched out, head tilted back looking up at the sky with so much pride, confidence, joy and strength. They were so open to the world and what awaits them. Full of tireless energy and an abundance of spirit. It was an amazing day for all of us.

- Tiffany Strietelmeier

As We Say "Good Bye"

2008-07-30T02:50:00.000+02:00

Friday, July 25:
Final Day in
Malungeni

As if we aren’t already on “emotional overload” as the service program winds down, we all attended a “farewell” celebration at the primary school this morning. The children sat by grade outside and were already in a chorus of song as Nkuli, Danice, Michael, Erin and I joined the rest of the team in front of the assembly.

Solomsi announced the agenda and led the prayer. Each class then presented hand-made cards to the team – many with personal notes to “their” teachers. Mr. Qwaka spoke of the numerous contributions the team made, and how he hoped many (if not all) of us would return on future teams. I heard a few sniffles….and not just from among the volunteers.

But, most of us were brought to tears as each team member reflected on the many ways the students and teachers touched their hearts…and souls. I wasn’t certain either Ryan or Molly would be able to complete their remarks. We all recognized how fast the time had gone, and how deeply we were affected by the children’s accomplishments…and needs.

After a birthday song to Linda, we moved on to the “picnic” portion of the event: Steak, sausage, bread and coke for the adults, and oranges for the children. The food was so good, we hardly realized how hot the sun was!

The 1:30 “talent” show was delayed as students gathered slowly at the community center. But, as none of us were anxious to end this final day, we waited patiently, chatting with parents and playing with the children. When the cast arrived, Chan announced the acts, and we were treated to a lively play about HIV/AIDS in Xhosa introduced by a number of songs, and followed by a short scene written by Olga and acted out by Chan, Erin and Ryan. What fun!

We reflected on the significant contribution we worked together on with our local friends....solidly in five areas of the U.N. Millennium Development Goals:

Eradicate extreme hunger and poverty: 29 volunteer hours in capacity-building
Achieve universal primary education: 416 volunteer hours teaching in the primary school
Promote gender equality and empower woman: 204 hours assisting women with sewing and crafts projects
Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases: 12 hours helping to restore HIV/AIDs library
Develop a global partnership for development: 792 hours working hand-in-hand on critical community development projects

We packed and planned our early departure tomorrow morning. All evaluations were completed! The roundevalles were buzzing as suitcases were stuffed with memories…and souvenirs…and return flights were compared. The atmosphere was more of a large, happy family than 12 individuals from cities spread across North America. Yes, we’ve formed a very special team!

Thank you all for your extraordinary patience, compassion and dedication on this very important pioneer team. You have been as much a support to me as to the people of Malungeni. Your indefatigable spirit remains as an inspiration to those who’ll follow us in many years to come. Never, ever doubt how important you have been in the history of this resilient, resourceful rural village. I hope to see you all again, and I wish you all the very best in life. Continue to challenge the status quo and to reach beyond your grasp. Together, we can indeed build a world of peace and justice one day at a time.

-Michele Gran (“Mama Mlbuwana”)

Ending a Beautiful Week in Malungeni

2008-07-30T02:07:00.000+02:00

“And none of us need feel any shame at all at using help, since we all help each other.”

The reality of time passing is in full force for us all. We’re starting to say our good-bye’s and plan our thank you celebrations. The Community Center bleachers are complete, we’ve practiced our songs for the thank you ceremony and Chan and Erin are getting the drama club ready for tomorrow’s performance. In the middle of the commotion we received another resident to the guest house -- "Happy" -- a flea invested, scruffy, starving puppy.

As the majority of the team headed off to school, Erin and I were on our way to the Community Center when we were summoned by two local ladies – the real Joyce – asked if we were going to go with them to the river to carry water...how could we say no? The women filled the buckets in the pond and set us up with head gear, then placed the buckets on our heads. I had to make an adjustment, placing the bucket closer to the front of my head then set off with both hands on the bucket - there would be no hands free moments from this amateur. With concentration and determination, we made it to the road without drenching ourselves in the valuable resource and happily handed the buckets back to the ladies at the road. Joyce had a baby strapped to her back as she hoisted the bucket on her head and used her hands to carry scraps of sheet metal she had found in the field. The weight and placement of the bucket wrecked my neck, a constant and painful reminder of one of the many hardships the women of Malungeni encounter on a daily basis. Even our hauling in of water for drinking and washing from the storage tanks at the guest house this week pales in comparison to the realities of local life.

This afternoon Global Volunteers hosted a thank you celebration for Malungeni. Wendy opened with a lovely invocation and we led local people in a rendition of “Morning Has Broken”. Not possessing a harmonious voice, I was thankful for the iPod accompaniment. Michele gave a very heartfelt speech to the local community as Solomsi translated in Xhosa, which included reference to Nelson Mandela’s inaugural speech where he quoted Marianne Williamson’s poem of “Our Greatest Fear.” “Our greatest fear is not that we are not strong enough, it’s that we’re powerful beyond measure.” The people of Malungeni are just that…powerful beyond measure. As their partners in development, I hope we have, in some small way, reignited that belief and desire in them - we’ve certainly been witness to it time and again during our stay.

After we all took a moment to express our gratitude to the community and heard a touching thank you from a community leader, we closed with South Africa’s National Anthem, the same song Malungeni used to greet us two short weeks ago. The local women then got up and started singing, dancing, and hugging us, telling us the most important thing is love. For the fourth or fifth time today, I was moved to tears.

Dinner was scrumptious once again thanks to Danice. Perhaps Global Volunteers should consider marketing these fine dining experiences for its South African teams. We were “treated” to a drop-in by Nyaniso Magokolo after dinner, who wanted an update on what we did while we were here, and to offer us a safe journey home. He was open and gracious with suggestions on how to get children to read and the importance of childhood development through daycare programs. He left us with the challenge to continue what we started and continue to help Malungeni. From the conversations we’ve all had, I know we’ve all come up with our own ways in meeting that challenge.

In the spirit of being in the moment (a personal goal on this journey), the day was filled with flashes I will carry back with me in my heart…Vuyo, Rebecca, Nkuli and Gwen singing “Oh Happy Day” in the kitchen, the livestock rush hour, the magnificent sunset, walking the village with Chan to create a map, the kind well wishes followed by the extra yummy birthday cake, the dishwashing jam session, and Olga and Gwen bringing us our good-as -new laundry. In one day alone, these images captured so much of the complete experience in Malungeni.

We are all now faced with the inevitable farewell. Our Malungeni friends will carry on in the same environment as we head back home to our modern day conveniences. They will continue to be challenged…and hopefully uplifted with possibility. As for us, the volunteers, may we take with us another line from the Greatest Fear poem, “Your playing small does not serve the world.” Just as we’re hoping for big dreams for our new friends, may we continue ourselves to grandly dream, serve on a large scale, and remember we, too, are powerful beyond measure.

- Michael Kithcart

Wednesday, July 23, 2008 in South Africa

2008-07-30T02:02:00.000+02:00

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

You are like light for the whole world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a bowl; instead he puts it on the lampstand, where it gives light for everyone in the house. In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5

We awoke to another chilly morning in Malungeni which by afternoon evolved into a sunny, lovely day. We all enjoyed the bright, warm weather. Yesterday, Cromwell told me that spring is on the way. This certainly seems to be the case. I so enjoy walking to school and sharing morning greetings with the local community members. We arrived at school to the smiling faces and the cheerful waves of the school children. I wish I could bottle this joyful, hopeful enthusiasm and take it home with me. Linda, Chan and I prepared a reading comprehension lesson on “World Heritage Sites.” Some children did extremely well, while others seemed to struggle. Yesterday, Cromwell “lectured” (for lack of a better word) on the importance of reading and writing. He strongly encouraged the children to read every piece of paper that they could get their hands on. I hope that when the library is up and running it will be a resource for the children and the community at large.

Cromwell told Chan, Linda, Wendy and I about the Premier who was set to resign today. Cromwell shared his fears of a potential civil war. Year 2009 will certainly be an interesting election year for South Africa.

We had a team effort of covering the grade R as the teacher was unable to attend school today. The little ones are such a delight. I think it is fair to say that we all hope for a successful, happy future for each and every child. Wendy enjoyed her morning with the little ones. I on the other hand experienced chaos – not certain what happened…maybe it was just because it was the end of their day or the children decided it would be fun to “play” the substitute. This is the first time I experienced frustration due to the language barrier. But, at the end of the day, the children’s smiles get to you.

Cromwell taught a class today on the changes in South Africa. He noted the change in the government – how it was going to build low income housing, it was assisting with brining a water system into the local community, etc. Cromwell also hopes there will eventually be more resources, such as, additional classrooms and libraries. At Linda’s suggestion, we had a raise of hands of those children who when they grow up wish to move to the city as opposed to remaining in the rural community. There were quite a few who wished to move to the urban areas with aspirations of being doctors, teachers, policemen, lawyers and soldiers….what an inspiration!

Michael and I set off to the Community Center for the “community project workshop” (bakery, poultry and piggery, community garden, beads and crafts). I must preface this summary by saying words cannot express what transpired at the workshop. Per Michael, it was on her “top ten list” of things she has done in her lifetime. I must admit, it was an extremely powerful afternoon. We had 14 attendees (12 women and 2 men). Michael and I were stunned and extremely proud when the community members asked when they could stop calling it a project and begin calling it a business. Ideas were hatched, thoughts were shared, dreams became a possibility in a little over 2 hours. It was truly amazing. Jagged by corporate America, so many people have unlimited resources at their fingertips but no vision. Vision is certainly what the community has. Given the time, I have no doubts that goals will be met, businesses will succeed. I do not think that the community members grasp the power in their hands to forge the community forward. I however, am impressed by their vision and am hopeful for a prosperous future.

Back to the guesthouse for yet another yummy meal. Danice certainly does spoil us…what a disappointment when I go home to frozen meals!

We ended the evening with music practice for our upcoming events. Thank God for Chan. He is such the director. Hopefully, we will be a hit! We are all looking forward to expressing our heartfelt thanks to the community. We will take a little part of each and every community member home with us. What a truly awesome and comforting thought!

- Molly McGuire

Tuesday, July 22, 2008 - Malungeni, South Africa

2008-07-30T01:47:00.000+02:00

"Perhaps the World Ends Here" by Joy Harjo

The world begins at a kitchen table. No matter what, we must eat to live.

The gifts of earth are brought and prepared, set on the table. So it has been since creation, and it will go on.

We chase chickens or dogs away from it. Babies teethe at the corners. They scrape their knees under it.

It is here that children are given instructions on what it means to be human. We make men at it, we make women.

At this table we gossip, recall enemies and the ghosts of lovers.

Our dreams drink coffee with us as they put their arms around our children. They laugh with us at our poor falling down selves and as we put ourselves back together once again at the table.

This table has been a house in the rain, an umbrella in the sun.

Wars have begun and ended at this table. It is a place to hide in the shadow of terror. A place to celebrate the terrible victory.

We have given birth on this table, and have prepared our parents for burial here.

At this table we sing with joy, with sorrow. We pray of suffering and remorse. We give thanks.

Perhaps the world will end at the kitchen table, while we are laughing and crying, eating of the last sweet bite.

Day 10
The morning began with Ryan and his faithful followers doing a workout and run before breakfast. Danice made delicious bran and fruit muffins for us. Over breakfast Wendy read a Joy Harjo poem and Linda shared her journal entry from yesterday. We are all aware that our time in Malungeni is quickly coming to a close and there is the desire to accomplish several tasks before we all head back to our own lives and challenges.

Chan will return the rental van today which has become our primary source of transportation outside of the village. The challenges of transportation or more specifically the lack of quick or easy transportation to town, gives one the realization of how difficult it can be to complete, what can be viewed as simple tasks within the spheres of our own life experience.

Nkuli and Linda are accompanying Chan to Mtatha where more food will be bought, US dollars converted to Rand, school supplies requested by the principal will be purchased, and other small errands run. This task could take much of the day. While 12 km is not an enormous distance it is one that can add unforeseen challenges along the way.

Cara, Ryan, and Erin are teaching Math today because the regular teacher will be away due to a need to address some personal issues. Mavis the Social Science and Xhosa teacher will be arriving at school via a combi today because the math teacher is her regular way to get to school. She did arrive about 9:30am. Transportation for her to get to work is one of the big challenges of her job.

Elsa and Mary Juan are busy helping to meet the needs of the grade 1, 2, 3 students and, while walking to school, discussed strategies of how they might use their day to help it be a productive one for the students.

Michele spoke with Cromwell, the school principal, about a farewell ceremony at the school and he was pleased to learn of our desire to mark this first trip to Malungeni by the Global Volunteers.

Molly is spending the morning assisting Cromwell with the English class. The children in her class smile easily as she works with them and respond well to her praising their work. The trip to the restroom is the universal break from class regardless of where in the world school children are. Molly attempts to help avoid a mass exodus from her classroom.

I give a test to the grade 7-9 students on Nazi Germany and the violation of human rights by the Nazi government. We spend the morning grading papers, doing math problems, assisting in teaching lessons and generally helping where and however we are requested to do so. The children seem comfortable with the rhythm of the day even if the volunteers don’t always know what’s going on.

Michael and Molly are preparing for the business workshop which will be held tomorrow. They hope to facilitate conversations that will lead to the ability to organize the steps in order to set the groundwork for the many business ventures the people of Malungeni desire to initiate.
Organization skills appear to be one of the concepts which the leaders of Malungeni are most grateful to learn about. Most of the groups are struggling with this issue in order to move forward with their hopes and dreams. Michael and Molly are helping to develop relationships that will hopefully assist them in moving to the next steps in their visions for their lives in Malungeni.

Chan reported that the shopping trip was typical of their other ones. As he says, “their on African time” and “no rules or laws just suggestions and guidelines”, adjusting to the pace is something that challenges us as Westerners. While on the trip Linda found the school supplies that have been requested and she said they’ll be presented to the school on Friday.
The late afternoon was abuzz with several group meetings. What was thought to be a meeting of the soccer coaches was actually a meeting of several players from the here at Malungeni who walk one and a half hours on Sunday to play without a proper field and very little, if any, equipment. Cara and Michael helped facilitate the meeting and hope in the future they can help point the guys in the direction of coaching and funding equipment needs.
The women were back with t-shirt dress project. Wendy and Elsa assisted them and by the end of the afternoon 16 dresses of various sizes were now part of their initial inventory. The women laughed and chatted and good work was the product of their time together.
Danice prepared yet another feast for us. A West African spicy chicken dish was enjoyed by all along with yellow rice with raisins and a colorful medley of peppers and cucumbers. Homemade oatmeal cookies were our sweet treat.

As we finished dinner the conversation shifted to the programs which will occur at the end of the week to let the community know how grateful our hearts are for the opportunity to live and share with them for two weeks. The young people from the school have a talent show in the planning phase and a program of thanks to the school teachers and students is on the agenda for Friday.

Thursday afternoon will be time to have the community gather at the house where music, words of gratitude, and our photo will be presented to them. Their radical hospitality has touched our hearts and minds. Michele has begun her taped interviews of each of the team members with the hope that our experiences here will inspire others to come to this wonderful place to help in the future. We will later tonight gather to review our goals which we set upon arrival in Malungeni.

The days have slipped away so quickly. We all are already anticipating how difficult Friday is going to be when we prepare to go back to our homes. We have made special friends in just two short weeks. We have found that we share some common hopes and dreams for our lives and communities. On Friday, I hope we will say, perhaps with tears in our eyes…not good-bye my friends, but see you soon, my friends. For as the Zulu proverb says “I am because we are”.

Much peace, Wendy

The Start of our Second Week - South Africa

2008-07-30T01:38:00.000+02:00

Monday, July 21, 2008

We all gathered together again this morning after our various weekend adventures. Most of us were in freshly laundered clothes thanks to the substantial efforts of Olga, Kwena, and the other ladies. The work involved in hand washing all that clothing was appreciated and I know I will think twice before complaining about doing laundry at home in the washer and dryer in my basement. Loubabaloo joined us for breakfast and graciously handed out wonderful gooseberries for us to taste.

Molly, Chan, and I had a wonderful day at the school. We taught English to the grade 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 students. We also taught electricity to the grade 7, 8, and 9 students. The discussion of positive and electric charges somehow led to a discussion about gay and lesbian rights in South Africa, Canada, and the United States. Cromwell has really opened up with us and is eager to discuss a variety of political, social, and educational issues. He also seems to enjoy some of our different teaching strategies and has become much more relaxed with the students. Today, he picked up a boy so that he could write an answer on the board. This set the class laughing and Molly and I darting for our cameras. Elsa and Mary Juan worked diligently with the grade 1, 2, and 3 students who have more needs than can possibly be met by two people, even two remarkable ladies like Elsa and Mary Juan. I think Wendy was pleased that her teaching partner actually showed up at school today. They continued to work on social studies and Wendy experienced the teacher’s displeasure with a few students who had not completed their homework.

Next, Molly and I headed to the daycare. We passed Ryan and Cara who were walking to the school for soccer practice. The kids at the school were very excited with the new soccer balls that Cara bought in East London and they ran off kicking the balls in all directions. Cara tried to set up drills to develop soccer skills but the students were too excited and unorganized to really focus on that right now. Erin had everything set up at the daycare after spending the morning sweeping and mopping the floors. Michael, Mary Juan, Erin, Molly, and I spend the next couple of hours entertaining the children with bubble blowing, Duplo blocks, skipping ropes, balls, colouring, story telling, and songs. The children also had a delicious pasta dish courtesy of Danice.
Back at the guest house, we discovered that once again there was no running water but that there is not a water shortage so we just needed haul water into the bathrooms. Just another small glimpse into daily life in Africa.

Elsa met with the sewing group and worked on the t-shirt dresses. A fashion show broke out as Nkosi, Vuyo, and others paraded around in the beautiful fabrics that were bought for the children’s dresses.

Back at the guest house, Michael continued to work on business plans with community members. She was pleased to discover that they had followed through with the planned next step and returned to her with new information. Chan made yet another trip into Mthatha to work on Olga’s computer and buy yet more groceries. We enjoyed another delicious dinner of pasties, corn chowder, and bean salad prepared by Danice as she was serenaded all day long by Vuyo’s operetta.

After dinner, we discussed ideas for a culturally relevant and meaningful final celebration at the school and with the community members in order to thank them for all they have given us and to say good-bye until the next team arrives. It is sad to already be discussing leaving Malungeni. It seems like we have just arrived and have been here forever at the same time. The evening ended with a birthday party celebration for Ryan. They was singing and dancing and well wishing by all. I’m sure we will all leave Malungeni with heavy hearts as many friendships have been forged with the people here and among the volunteers.

-Linda

First Week in Malungeni

2008-07-30T01:22:00.000+02:00

“Ubomi Bunzima” (Xhosa for “Life is hard.”)

I’m running late for school this morning. As I walk I hear only the sound of my footsteps in the road. The road is dirt and rocks and feels rough and uneven under my shoes. As I walk I pass the houses of the people of Malungeni. The people of those houses laugh as I butcher their language – “Molo” (Hello), I say. “Unjani?” (How are you?) Malungeni always seems to be full of laughter and joy and my impression is that people here are genuinely glad we are here. It’s hard for me to quiet the cynical voice in the back of my head that says, “You can’t change the world. You’re such a spoiled American. Your only hardship is that you don’t have the latest generation iPod.”

A small herd of cattle cross the road in front of me. I wait for them; they are on Africa Time. I admire Africa Time – it is time without time, a heartbeat without a measureable pulse. Time here does not stand still, but instead glides along and surprises me. The time taken for a smile and a wave of the hand takes an eternity while a lifetime flashes by in the blink of an eye.
I walk into the 4th Grade classroom and am greeted by the students standing to say, “Good Morning, Teacher. How are you today, Teacher?” And I blush.
After we are told that the teachers are leaving today because of a fee they must pay or traffic (I’m not sure which) and that we will be teaching the kids on our own, Linda, Molly and I are giving a lesson on pronouns: he, she, it, they. I am he; we are they; you are she. Comprehension is limited. We gently push one of the 4th graders to put an index card under the “they” category by saying, “Are students a girl? No!! Are students a boy? No!!” They seem to be under the weight of a scholastic burden to always be right. Or maybe they are just pre-pubescent kids who don’t want to look bad in front of their peers. So they smile blankly and say, “Yes.” Yesterday we spent a half hour trying to explain that pigs don’t say, “Woof, woof.” It seems that only ¼ of the students can really even understand English at all.

I have decided to stay with Wendy to teach what turns out to be a rather psychotic geography/astronomy lesson in which Wendy is the sun and I am the earth revolving around her. One of the students raises his hand to say “I don’t understand” and I feel so proud. It is the first time this week that any of the students has admitted to not comprehending what we say. I feel a rush of joy. And suddenly the bell has rung for school to end. “Are we having drama class today?” I’m asked, and I say that we don’t think we’re supposed to be at school after classes are over today. I’m a little sad because the kids all love drama and I actually feel like I have a purpose teaching drama.

At 3:00 we have a meeting with what seems to be the ladies social circle. The women leaders of the village really want to use their ability to do bead work and traditional dance to fund activities for the youth to keep them from drinking, drug and a general life of crime. The difficulties they face are enormous in a country that seems to be without hope. In my egcentric world it’s hard for me to imagine life without the internet, hot water, easy transportation. It’s hard for me not to say, “Here. Here is everything I have. Take it.” But that’s not why we are here. Thank God for Michael and her left brain. The meeting is over and we get ready to leave for East London for a weekend of comparative luxury.

We did a lesson earlier this week about needs vs. wants. I’m not sure I know the difference anymore.
-Chan Harris

Our First Week in South Africa

2008-07-30T01:00:00.000+02:00

July 17, 2008
It's interesting for me to sit down and think about all that we did as a team today. I’ve always tried to keep a journal, but usually what I write seems insignificant and repetitive when I read it later. Interestingly enough, I have confidence that to sit down and write about a day in Malungeni will bring nothing but reflection upon challenges that have been faced, memories that have been made, lives that have been impacted and countless laughs in between.

After the now routine breakfast and morning gathering around the coffee pot like it is a watering hole, Erin and I embark on an adventure that we would have had no way for which to prepare. Providing day care was our team’s idea for the smaller children of the community and we knew it could have literally gone in any direction. Olga assured us that the mamas were all coming and that it would be a success. Armed with the plethora of supplies and goodies from Elsa, Mary Juan and Wendy, we head over to the community center with Michael to set up for the day. When the first two children arrive we try to encourage hopscotch but it seems that the only person interested in that game is our old and friendly toothless friend who came in from the road to see what was going on inside the center. Although we got a lot of blank stares and tears at first, it seemed that once more kids came and they warmed up to us a little bit, both the mamas and their children were really enjoying this break from their regimented lives. We used paint, crayons, chalk, colored pencils, little spiky balls, stickers and songs to entertain the children and when it was time, Michael saved the day and relieved the kids with a snack of PB sandwich-quarters and water. Ryan and Elsa also made cameo appearances to film, attempt the hokey-pokey and hold babies. It looks as if we will be doing this again with the children and I am definitely confident that it will be a lot easier the second or even third time around.

The work on the community center, in other news, looks truly incredible. After a little more than two days of work, it seems that a little motivation and cement was all it took for some of the “soccer boys” to get working on the bleachers of the center. I was truly amazed to see this progress.

After a little break back at the guest house, Ryan, Erin and I went back for the “extra-mural” activities at school. Chan flaked on the drama class, so Erin would be joining us to help with “the sport.” From the start, Ryan made clear I was the coach and it was pretty funny to see the expression on the boys’ faces when they discovered that a girl would be the one directing them. Ryan led a quick warm-up and we divided up the 30-or-so young boys into teams and just started to play. I was so pleased to see the skill that they have and sincerely hope that someday it can be channeled and they can go as far as they want in the sport. With a little refinement and direction, these boys all seem to have the talent to go very far in the game. As Rebecca was explaining to me, they all wish so deeply for a coach to provide this for them in their after-school activities. It was incredible to even see the conditions that they played on: the field was scattered with huge rocks and at some points the grass was knee high. Most of the kids didn’t even have proper cleats and just played in their school uniforms and bare feet. It is clear that they all have a clear and unrelenting passion for the “greatest game.”

After a little sun shower experiment, Danice treated us all to another brilliant (but lamb-less) dinner and we were all able to recount our experiences from the day and unwind. Olga and Nkulie definitely got a kick out of seeing Ryan’s footage from the day care.

Everyday here is such an opportunity to learn more and more, not only about myself but also a culture so different from what I am used to. It will not be the showers, the school’s questionable teaching methods or what kind of ride we got into town that truly matter in the long run. I can only continue to hope that the work that I am doing with these children that I am so enjoying, is truly something that will leave a lasting and positive impact for them as well.

-Cara Daley

Day Four in Malungeni, South Africa

2008-07-30T00:45:00.000+02:00

How to Build a Global Community

Think of no one as “them”
Don’t confuse your comfort with your safety
Talk to strangers
Imagine other cultures through their art, poetry and novels
Listen to music you don’t understand – dance to it
Act locally
Notice the workings of power and privilege in your culture
Question consumption
Know how your lettuce and coffee are grown: wake up and smell the exploitation
Look for fair trade and union labels
Help build economies from the bottom up
Acquire few needs
Learn a second (or third) language
Visit people, places, and cultures – not tourist attractions
Learn people’s history – re-define progress
Know physical and political geography
Play games from other cultures – Watch films with subtitles
Know your heritage
Honor everyone’s holidays
Look at the moon and imagine someone else, somewhere else, looking at it too
Read the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Understand the global economy in terms of people, land and water
Know where your bank banks
Never believe you have a right to anyone else’s resources
Refuse to wear corporate logos: defy corporate domination

July 16, 2008

We all woke to no running water. With this group, no problem. Some hauled water to meet basic needs and no one missed a beat – yeah team!

Ryan had a full day – he spent the morning at the school teaching math to grades 4 – 9. Since the children don’t have textbooks, he made sure they were copying what the teacher wrote correctly and stopped to help those who weren’t quite getting it. He also tagged team with the Math teacher and they filled in for each other if one missed anything. Nkuli said she talked to the kids and they told her how much they love Ryan and how it’s easier to ask him questions than the regular teacher. She also said all the kids were very happy to have the volunteer teachers because they are so friendly and it’s easy to ask questions. She said it motivates them. In the afternoon, Malungeni was treated to a new scene with Ryan displaying his white skin while hoisting rocks for the community center bleachers that were created today by the locals (though Erin and Michael stirred up some of the cement).

Several others have had great moments and learning experiences in the classroom. Chan and Molly helped grades 7-9 with “Kissing Whitney”. Not a book that would be used in the U.S., the book deals with teenage sex HIV/AIDS with a focus on abstinence until marriage. Chan and Molly had each child go around and read from the book with discussion in between. Chan focused on the slang in the book and explained the terms for them.

Wendy, when sharing a U.S. map with a teacher, was asked where are the natural disasters are. When Wendy pointed out all the various places disasters have recently occurred, the teacher said, “No place is safe.” One of the funnier moments of the day was Elsa and Mary Juan reliving how they were asked to help the young children with their book…in Xhosa. Rumor also has it Mary Juan does a mean hokey pokey.

Several commented Solomsi (Cromwell) the principal appears to be getting more comfortable with us and has said he thinks our presence is impacting the students and teachers. His gruff exterior is showing signs of cracking – he’s even joking with the students.

There is a new drama club in Malungeni! Forty-three sixth through ninth graders showed up to be coached by Chan and Erin who kicked things off by sharing childhood stories and then having the kids share familiar stories, which were in Xhosa. The club was such as hit that they want to have it every day!

Molly and Michael had a meeting with the bakery members and got them started on creating a realistic budget for reopening the bakery as well as discussed possible resources they could pursue to get the needed funds. They will provide us pricing by Monday so we can help them develop a budget and create next steps.

All in all it was another great day, capped off with a gourmet meal by Danice – butternut squash, a traditional South African beef dish and chocolate cake with Wendy’s yummy buttercream frosting – what a way to end!

South African National Anthem

Nkosi sikelel’ iAfrika
Maluphakanyisw’ uphondo lwayo,
Yizwa imithandazo yethu,
Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo.

Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso,
O fedise dintwa la matshwenyeho,
O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso,
Setjhaba sa South Afrika – South Afrika.

Uit die blou van onse hemel,
Uit die diepte van ons see,
Oor ons ewige gebergtes,
Waar die kranse antwoord gee,

Sounds the call to come together,
And united we shall stand,
Let us live and strive for freedom,
In South Africa our land.

Lord, bless Africa
May her spirit rise high up
Hear thou our prayers
Lord bless us.

Lord, bless Africa
Banish wars and strife
Lord, bless our nation
Of South Africa.

Ringing out from our blue heavens
From our deep seas breaking round
Over everlasting mountains
Where the echoing crags resound…

Day Three in Malungeni, South Africa

2008-07-30T00:36:00.000+02:00

“They might forget what we said but they’ll never forget the way we made them feel.”

As we wait to start the work on the community center, Rebecca explains to me how government-contracted controllers will be coming in trucks to distribute money to the ‘grannies’ and to the pregnant teens. The controllers travel throughout Malugeni and surrounding villages all month. It takes them to the 25th of every month to make one stop in each given area. After talking with Rebecca and one of the controllers, Michael and I were informed somewhat of what this process entails.

You must meet with a social worker first and then apply for the money. Examples of how to get approved to receive the money woman must be 60, men 65 and out of work, pregnant girls 14 and younger also qualify, among other special circumstances. Rebecca finds that the girls intentionally will get pregnant just to qualify to receive the govt issued funds. It seems the money given to the girls goes towards their “selfish wants” for better or “smart clothes” as Rebecca refers to them. This could lead to more boyfriends and more pregnancies, more money in a repetitious process. It’s questioned whether the young mothers use the money to feed and care for the babies. Rebecca says that unfortunately, this irresponsible behavior is too common here.

While cleaning out the pit (aka cell) in the community center, Michael, Rebecca and I were surprised by a policeman who peeked in….curious as to what we were doing in this storage area. He joked that we were looking for money! His purpose for being at the community center at this time is to protect the elders in line waiting for their money because men have been known to rob the elders of their monthly payments. While cleaning out tires, shoes, beer cans and bottles and much other debris and waste, I am again impressed with how mature and well spoken Rebecca is. She agreed to do an interview for the documentary my brother and I are working on. I am confident that her point of view on her community and South Africa in general will resonate with the young adults in the USA, which thrills me.

My brother Ryan tells us of how things went at school with his math teachings. He never thought he would be doing this, but is delighted and made a positive and effective influence on the children. He especially enjoyed helping the children who needed special attention.

In the afternoon, some of us went on quite the adventure with Vuyo into Umtata for groceries. We trekked down the dirt road hoping to hitch a ride to the main road to then get another ride into town. The first ride was “interesting” because there were holes in the floor -- apparently eroding -- where we were sitting, and the roof of the car was so low we all were scrunched and hunched together like sardines. We laugh the whole way though wondering if this is what Michele meant when she had suggested “waiting for the better ride to come along….” Vuyo took us to the mall to use the bank and bumped into old friends, enjoying being our tour guide.

Later, we discussed options for transportation to get to the ‘Pick and Pay’. It does not look hopeful. As we begin to feel discouraged by Vuyo’s negotiations, out of no where Mazwai appears!!! He saves us! A familiar face in a crowd of so many! We all are so grateful and relieved.
We all are fully taking notice to the pace we must adjust to. Now we must find and meet with Chan who has successfully rented a car for the weekend.. A new, safe, comfy VW, yay! We have now named him our “chief.”

After all the groceries are collected, an executive decision was made that we must get the exact bread we had from “day one,” yet we don’t even know what that is! What we do know is that we must get it at another yet another grocery store on the way back. This is when traffic has completely jammed up and the people are everywhere in the streets. It’s utter chaos. Chan and Vuyo are elected to ‘run in’ and grab the bread. HA HA ….an hour later they return. While we had been waiting in the car, all white woman loaded in a van, hysterical laughing from being tired… alongside Ryan listening to an IPOD. The ride back was even better as we missed one of the turns due to distracting chatting taking place in the van. We do have a moment of silence as we all take in the vast land and gorgeous sunset. It was an experience all of us won’t forget!

All of this confirming that I am in the right place at the right time!

- Erin O’Connell

Our New Partnership in South Africa

2008-07-30T00:19:00.000+02:00

Our first team in South Africa was an amazing success by all measurements! We had so much fun, and made such a significant difference in the wonderful, warm host community of Malungeni on the Eastern Cape. We invite you on our journey....and to learn about some of the most resiliant, resourceful people in the world!

Quote: “Out beyond ideas of rightdoing and wrongdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” - Rumi

July 13, 2008 – Elsa Singh

After 19 to 23 long, grueling hours on various planes, we were met by an enthusiastic and relieved Michele at East London airport. Packed with luggage into a comfortable mini van, we embarked on our personal journey to Malungeni. Stunned by the beauty of the veld, we marveled at the vastness of the countryside, the villages around were octagonal homes, and the blue clarity of the sky which eventually darkened to produce a canopy of stars and full moon.

Arriving at the conference center, we were warmly welcomed and embraced by some of the local women who were all dressed in abundant layers. Dinner was displayed and enthusiastically explained by Vuyo whose delivery was every bit as entertaining as Emmerol.

To bed, to bed, perchance to sleep? The cold was our bed fellow. By the end of the week we too will be walking around in short sleeves and flip flops like the natives. The morning dawned…sunny, cold and soon. After breakfast Michele helped us to collaborate on the 15 characteristics of an effective team and then went on to setting personal team goals for our time here which ranged from experiencing the culture, being of service to the community and sharing the legacy.

By noon we noticed community people arriving for the welcoming celebration. Inside we sat with the community leaders, including the tribal chiefs, an endeavor to formulate plans to live up to the community’s expectations. The Global Volunteer philosophy was verbalized over and over that we were there to support their plans – not impose ours.

One of the tribal leaders put up and action plan chart with projects, who would work on them, expected outcome and timeframe. This was a bit frustrating for us all for the community did not seem to have clear projects to support and Michele did not want the ideas to come from us. But the spirit of working together as a team came across and being the first team here, groundwork will be established for the future. Many of us were impressed by the experience and exchange of this meeting and how diplomatic Michele was with the tribal leaders. For those of us who have been on other established trips, this experience greatly enhanced our appreciation for those who laid the groundwork on those trips for us.

Moving outside, the welcoming committee began with men, women and children gathered in a circle with us – the honored guests – and leaders seated in the front. The festivities were awesome, beginning with a prayer followed by speeches from the elders, the police chief, and introductions of the Global Volunteers. Several spoke of the lack of crime in Malungeni, although recognizing it’s endemic in the country. We were assured we were safe and welcomed. We were welcomed everywhere in the community and having us here and an honor to all.

There was singing with melodic harmonies, raucous dancing by the women and humorous skits by the children. The children were extremely well behaved throughout the afternoon and very patient. The women were so excited to share their dancing and performances with us and we were all thankful to have such a cultural experience. After awhile, delicious food was served inside and out and then more entertainment outside with drums and music providing the festive background. I have never welcomed more eloquently or with more exuberance by a people whose joie de vivre is a staple of their everyday diet.

The bitter cold of late afternoon drove the people home and us inside. But the warmth of the welcome was a soothing balm to our chilled beings.

Day 2

Right! This place is amazing and all, but when are we going to start working with these people? All of the volunteers got a guided tour of all of the facilities that need development, and. I realized they all need a lot of attention! Many steps would have to be taken to start the developing.

So the meeting was set for 3:00 for all of the volunteers and the project heads of the village to plan how to get things started. And it isn’t just developing facilities, it’s also types of activities. I was getting very curious how this meeting would go.
Oh my, did we start to plan! We got down to specifics on what supplies were needed, when to begin certain aspects of the various projects, who would be assisting in the various projects and how much time was needed for them. I was pleasantly surprised how well the communication seemed to be going. We all got off to a very organized start and I now believe that the leaders of Malungeni and the Global volunteers are on the same page. Or, at least, I really hope!

Truly,
Ryan B. O’Connell