The end is finally near. On Wednesday, 10-Jan we'll be sworn in as real volunteers. And let me tell you it's about time. We're all burned out on training. Today and tomorrow the health volunteers are giving sessions to the education volunteers to help them discuss community health and HIV with their students. I don't think they're in the mood to retain much of it but we'll give it our best shot. We have our final LPIs (language proficiency interview) on Sunday and Monday, I scored at Novice-Medium on the first test... definitely room for improvement. Tuesday we travel to Windhoek for shopping to prepare for the next 2 years. Wednesday we swear in, and I hear the Namibian Broadcasting Company (NBC) covers it with a news story. We have to give thank you speeches in local languages, and that usually gets on air.
Referring to my last post... Our workshops were indeed successful, at least according to the feedback we got from Tsumeb youth. We kept the sessions interactive and taught on many subjects (Science behind HIV, Alcoholism, Stigma & Discrimination, STDs, People living with HIV/AIDS-PLWHA, Condoms). In the end the youth would show up for just about anything as long as we served food, and we did that. Who doesn't like free food though? I know I've found meetings/conferences in the states where the food was definitely the highlight of the experience.
One sad note... we lost our first NAM27 volunteer. His name is Seth, and he was a fun guy to have around. We respect his decision to leave but he will be missed.
Picture Time: 1. The Tsumeb youth at our workshop 2. My host sisters Winnie and Susana desparately trying to teach me to dance on Christmas Eve 3. Meme Egumbo, Grandmother to my host sisters and wonderful host mom 4. Me before braids 5. Me with braids, done by host sister Susana (hope you can see them)
3 comments:
Hi Dave! wow...you're certainly busy and sounds like doing a great job on all the education sessions and workshops!
It snowed really good ONE time.. the kids missed school for a few days. Since then its melted and nothing yet... and sadly no white christmas :( Its cloudy today and my car desperately needs to be washed.. but for fear of rain or sleet.. I'm holding off.
Happy New Year! Hang in there.. and enjoy everything you're doing! mmm mutton! lol take care and love the braids! :)
Wow Dave! That is SOME hair! I am lovin' it. Keep up your motivation. . . one more week! It's so exciting to hear from you. Many Blessings, Angela
David, dear son.
You stop doubting yourself, now.
Your father has enough of that himself and it ain't good for nothin. Be kind to yourself, love yourself...why not?
Yes, the braids are great, gives you a sharp, intelligent appearance.
Thank you for keeping us posted on your efforts. Where people try to do good, good will get done. You've just started and if you persist wonderful things will unfold.
love, Dad
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