Lefiswane Community Visit. Hot, long drive, mules in the road, holes in the road, children in the road, mad drivers, no air con, dusty, hot.
We arrived for a site visit to give the Norwegiens a chance to experience working with the schools and coaching; and us to assess their skills. With 50% of Africa's population under 18.. in one small rural community there were 2000 children. These 2000 children all wanted to play... us 7 volunteers, the 40 g\dgree heat, the pot holes facility found this a challenge-- but we succeeded. My finest moment was teaching 'head, shoulders, knees and toes' to a group of 100 3-5 years old. We visited 2 schools- and a footy practice (where clearly I had no input than to watch and nod!)
When you think about development you always wonder if it really works- and who you are helping. Well, you only have to go to a village like that to see that those inhabitants- they benefit directly. From your time, your skill sharing and your willingness to learn too. We were the first whites some of the children had seen, and in a post Apartheid country (only 94) we have a broad mantle to carry in respect to levelling some equality.
We had a tradition meal; pap (maize), potato, meat, beans- it was good. There is no running water but the house was immaculate.. 4 generations of female lived there- the men are conspicious by their absences- they are lots of reasons for this.
I was called Karabo- which means 'the answer' the answer to SCORE and Sport said one. Before I allowed myself to get flattered, the others laughed and said she is also the baby snatcher from our favourite soap opera (ha, they had me sussed pretty quick!)
I head to Apel tomorrow, I have mobile contact but not sure of internet. I am really missing everyone at the moment; so keep showering the love.
I'm off for a coffee... and a hand picked mango :)
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2 comments:
really missing you too beans - in tew tew this weekend and weird not just popping over for a glass of the pinot with my bell. i miss your pit! will be down again soon though and i promised your mum i would go and see her for some pinda love- she still coming over in april with pomp?
how is the job though - sounds like you already realise how worthwhile its guna be.
cant wait to come and see you although knowing that u will have been there 10 months, i believe a shagaluf ala 2003 spray tan may be in order!! o and a few thousand sit ups!
hope the lippy lip is sweating like a dream!
love you loads
oink x
'i need my fucking caffein'...
There she is! Just left the gils in Cardiff with wine and cake- see nothing changes. Went out for a few last night and went around the bay today lovely sun actually quite warm. Girls on top form-i've been crying with laughter all weekend.
Here in London now ready for tomorrow- when i say ready i'm not lost thanks to my hero edward evans- who ran to save me in brixton when i was lost with no phone battery. All good here- obviously miss you man beast.
Glad your eating your 5 a day.
BIg love X
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