The Debrief.
Well, we left our home in Kimironko on Friday morning and headed back to the Tearfund guesthouse to be reunited with the other teams and having debriefing sessions over the weekend. It surely was sad to leave that house- it was an amazing house, I seriously loved it-power cuts and all. We were so blessed to be placed in such a lovely place and to meet such amazing people. I will miss Constance and Bernard- they are awesome God-spirited people. I will miss the neighbourhood, everyone was so friendly and welcoming. That community spirit needs to be everywhere. We are all in this together, aren’t we? Anyways, when we arrived on Friday we has the rest of the day free, so we went to town! Our last time in that crazy place! I went with Claudine, Nancy and Anna- the usual suspects-but this time we brought Roxanne and Claudia. It was nice bringing them and having different company-it made me feel like a tour guide and no longer the tourist haha!
Saturday and Sunday was spent in the classrooms having sessions on evaluating mostly- looking back on what were the highlights and the lowlights, as well as discussing things like reverse culture shock and action at home. As I’ve said a many a times, these evaluating procedures our necessary, I guess, to constantly improve things for the next team. We had a lot of free on Sunday after we said goodbye to the ICVs- now that was really sad. Really sad. It was really hard to say goodbye to such lovely, caring, selfless people. They surely will be missed but thank God for things like facebook (haha), that way I can still keep in touch with them. God bless them all.
Saturday and Sunday was spent in the classrooms having sessions on evaluating mostly- looking back on what were the highlights and the lowlights, as well as discussing things like reverse culture shock and action at home. As I’ve said a many a times, these evaluating procedures our necessary, I guess, to constantly improve things for the next team. We had a lot of free on Sunday after we said goodbye to the ICVs- now that was really sad. Really sad. It was really hard to say goodbye to such lovely, caring, selfless people. They surely will be missed but thank God for things like facebook (haha), that way I can still keep in touch with them. God bless them all.
So we headed back to the cold country that is England on Sunday evening- well nearly Monday morning, it was after 11pm- and it was a pretty straightforward journey. I was sad to leave as I will always love Rwanda, it will always have a place in my heart. I’m going to miss my little sister Nina A LOT. It was nice to see her and her parents come to the airport to see us off. Ahh bless them. Such lovely and welcoming people- I don’t know anyone else like them.
So after 2 flights and around 14 hours (ish), we landed at Heathrow!! We will meet again, with the others on the Tearfund October placements too, on Saturday for our homecoming event. It’s basically about us doing our ‘action at home’.
Rwanda, I miss you already!
Rwanda, I miss you already!
Time to Celebrate!
On Wednesday night we had our farewell do. We rushed home from the catch-up school to start preparing the food for the party. I don’t think any of us ladies worked so hard haha! Nonetheless, we worked excellently as a team, in our various roles, and managed to get things up and running before the majority of guests arrived (some came REALLY early- eager beavers hey! Haha). We put on such an awesome spread, if I say so myself, rice; chips; vegetables; chicken; beef; and salad. We also made sandwiches and had crisps and sweets for starters- you know, to get them to experience British party food too :D
Denyse and I wore traditional Rwandan dress- thanks to Nina who brought them for us. I got a purple one to wear and fell in love with it! It’s so smart and elegant-felt like we were brides waiting to get married haha!
Denyse and I wore traditional Rwandan dress- thanks to Nina who brought them for us. I got a purple one to wear and fell in love with it! It’s so smart and elegant-felt like we were brides waiting to get married haha!
We invited first and foremost A.E.E. staff members; and of course Joan and Maddie; and then anyone else who we had made friends with during our stay in Kigali. It was so lovely to see all these people come together to celebrate our time and the achievements we had made. It was very humbling too when we received gifts. Again, this was something unexpected and we are very grateful for them appreciating us in this way. They did not have to, but they did. Bless them. Phanuel, the A.E.E. Kigali branch co-ordinator introduced us all to the crowd with a beautiful speech and then nominated someone to give us our gifts I got the lovely Rose. I am going to miss her so. Her English is not at a high level, but that did not stop her from communicating well with us. She is such a pleasure to work with and a very admirable lady. Phanuel wasn’t the only one to make a speech, the night was full of speeches! We all made a speech ourselves-just before we cut the cake! Yup! There was cake, and it was delicious! Haha! But seriously, I don’t think it is possible for me to stress it enough that we are all so very, very, very grateful to all the people we have come into contact with during our time in Rwanda- from the workers in the other A.E.E. offices to the children at the catch-up school- thank you!
Enjoy the pictures!
Enjoy the pictures!
Muhumurize, you will always be in my heart.
Wednesday was our last day at the catch up school and it was not easy. We have gotten so close to these wonderful children, it is hard to depart from them. But, we know, it comes with the contract.
We spent the morning singing songs and playing games with them. We also finished the container gardens- the children brought in seedlings and we planted them into the sacks we made last week.
I also brought my roller skates for the kids to play with. Now they had a ball! Haha! They were so excited to put them on- that simply put a smile on my face. I was even able to leave them to it at one point as they (the older ones) managed to take the lead and organise the other children.
We spent the morning singing songs and playing games with them. We also finished the container gardens- the children brought in seedlings and we planted them into the sacks we made last week.
I also brought my roller skates for the kids to play with. Now they had a ball! Haha! They were so excited to put them on- that simply put a smile on my face. I was even able to leave them to it at one point as they (the older ones) managed to take the lead and organise the other children.
To end the morning, we had a closing assembly. The principle (who is my Rwandan dad btw), Pastor Theo, gave a speech stating how grateful they all were for our presence. They thanked us for the innovations we brought to the school and blessed us. Unexpectedly, he awarded us with certificates! None of us were expecting anything and to get a certificate of appreciation was the icing on the cake.
It was really hard to say goodbye. Some girls started to cry. Teta was one of them. Teta had become like my little sister and I will miss her so much. I know that she and the others have a bright, prosperous future ahead of them, God is blessing them and I pray that He continues to do so.
Muhumurize catch-up school, thank you for being so welcoming and loving to us. I already miss you. I pray that others take note of the amazing work that is done there, and it encourages other Rwandans to help the street children of their country. God bless you.
It was really hard to say goodbye. Some girls started to cry. Teta was one of them. Teta had become like my little sister and I will miss her so much. I know that she and the others have a bright, prosperous future ahead of them, God is blessing them and I pray that He continues to do so.
Muhumurize catch-up school, thank you for being so welcoming and loving to us. I already miss you. I pray that others take note of the amazing work that is done there, and it encourages other Rwandans to help the street children of their country. God bless you.
Week Nine With A.E.E.
This week marks our final week at A.E.E. I speak for everyone when I say that it has been such an awesome, memorable time spent with such amazingly humble Spirit-filled people. We will miss them all terribly-well not Tirion, she’ll be seeing them real soon! Our hope is that the next team maintains and strengthens the bonds we have made with the staff. You’ll hear this from Alexis, but I’m going to say it here: be innovative! Haha…it’s funny when I think about how this was drained down our throats at the very start! Anyways, I digress.
We started this week attending the morning devotion.
We decided to combine the staff and team meetings as it is the last week, everything is being finished and wrapped up and evaluated. We have no outside activities planned this week-bar the catch up school on Wednesday :)- we were office based on Monday and Tuesday. We finisalised reports; case studies; success stories and filling in and creating other debrief materials (i.e. presentations).
This may sound dull, tedious and long, but it is arguably necessary- we have to evaluate and monitor our time here and the progress we made, individually and as a team. This is so that future teams will have a strong understanding foundation of their roles in country and how things generally function.
Oh and it was Faustine’s birthday today! Haha bless him! Such a character, that I’ll admit, I’ll miss…slightly haha!
Tuesday we were back in the offices to do some more paper work and whatnot. We also took this time to just chat and relax with the staff- I can’t say this enough, but they are so sweet and kind and a pleasure to work with. I am going to miss them all.
I spent the morning working with Sylvain on the A.E.E. blog. I’ve already mentioned about it here, it is still a work in progress. It is great to see how keen they are in getting one up and running, but this is side work to them. He can only do it when he has time, so it is understandable that it is not in operation yet- give it time.
Additionally, as I started a new A.E.E. blog with Sylvain, I thought it would be best for him to have a manual on how to maintain it- so I wrote one! Entitled ‘The Blog Booklet’ I wrote down step-by-step instructions for Sylvain (and other staff members) to follow and update the blog with ease. My hope is that the next team will help the staff to use the manual to continually update the blog and showcase their awesome work to the world!
So, after all this work, we had our farewell party on Wednesday!! This was such a wonderful, blessed night, that was thoroughly enjoyed by all-but you know me, there’s a separate post on it, so check that out!
Our time at the A.E.E. offices officially ended Thursday morning. We attended their morning devotion one last time. It was beautiful as always and extra special as they said speeches of how they appreciated our presence and the work that we have done with them. It brought a smile to my face. To end, they got us in the center and prayed for us. What a blessed way to end.
We could not go without going into the offices again, obviously, so we hanged out with them one last time. We gave them gifts- I brought the British flag from home and got the team to sign it, and we gave them a picture in a handmade frame-and took many, many, many pictures.
May God continue to bless them to have the ability to do His will here on earth. I love them and will miss them all.
Check out below the pictures from the week!
We started this week attending the morning devotion.
We decided to combine the staff and team meetings as it is the last week, everything is being finished and wrapped up and evaluated. We have no outside activities planned this week-bar the catch up school on Wednesday :)- we were office based on Monday and Tuesday. We finisalised reports; case studies; success stories and filling in and creating other debrief materials (i.e. presentations).
This may sound dull, tedious and long, but it is arguably necessary- we have to evaluate and monitor our time here and the progress we made, individually and as a team. This is so that future teams will have a strong understanding foundation of their roles in country and how things generally function.
Oh and it was Faustine’s birthday today! Haha bless him! Such a character, that I’ll admit, I’ll miss…slightly haha!
Tuesday we were back in the offices to do some more paper work and whatnot. We also took this time to just chat and relax with the staff- I can’t say this enough, but they are so sweet and kind and a pleasure to work with. I am going to miss them all.
I spent the morning working with Sylvain on the A.E.E. blog. I’ve already mentioned about it here, it is still a work in progress. It is great to see how keen they are in getting one up and running, but this is side work to them. He can only do it when he has time, so it is understandable that it is not in operation yet- give it time.
Additionally, as I started a new A.E.E. blog with Sylvain, I thought it would be best for him to have a manual on how to maintain it- so I wrote one! Entitled ‘The Blog Booklet’ I wrote down step-by-step instructions for Sylvain (and other staff members) to follow and update the blog with ease. My hope is that the next team will help the staff to use the manual to continually update the blog and showcase their awesome work to the world!
So, after all this work, we had our farewell party on Wednesday!! This was such a wonderful, blessed night, that was thoroughly enjoyed by all-but you know me, there’s a separate post on it, so check that out!
Our time at the A.E.E. offices officially ended Thursday morning. We attended their morning devotion one last time. It was beautiful as always and extra special as they said speeches of how they appreciated our presence and the work that we have done with them. It brought a smile to my face. To end, they got us in the center and prayed for us. What a blessed way to end.
We could not go without going into the offices again, obviously, so we hanged out with them one last time. We gave them gifts- I brought the British flag from home and got the team to sign it, and we gave them a picture in a handmade frame-and took many, many, many pictures.
May God continue to bless them to have the ability to do His will here on earth. I love them and will miss them all.
Check out below the pictures from the week!
Umuganda.
The word Umuganda can be translated as ‘coming together in common purpose to achieve an outcome’. Umuganda takes places on the last Saturday of every month, and it is when members of the community would call upon their family, friends and neighbours to help them complete a difficult task to improve their community.
As part of efforts to reconstruct Rwanda and nurture a shared national identity, the Government of Rwanda drew on aspects of Rwandan culture and traditional practices to enrich and adapt its development programs to the country’s needs and context. The result is a set of Home Grown Solutions -- culturally owned practices translated into sustainable development programs.
One of these Home Grown Solutions is Umuganda.
Modern day Umuganda can be described as community work. Communities come together to do a variety of public works. This often includes infrastructure development and environmental protection. Rwandans between 18 and 65 are obliged to participate in Umuganda. Expatriates living in Rwanda are encouraged to take part.
Today close to 80% of Rwandans take part in monthly community work. Successful projects include the building of schools, medical centres and hydro electric plants as well as rehabilitating wetlands and creating highly productive agricultural plots.
The value of Umuganda to the people of Rwanda is immense and evidently seen. Attending one umuganda allowed me to see people coming together to achieve great goals. It is admiring seeing all ages helping out in smoothing out the road. I strongly recommend that you take part in at least one umuganda if you are in Rwanda!
As part of efforts to reconstruct Rwanda and nurture a shared national identity, the Government of Rwanda drew on aspects of Rwandan culture and traditional practices to enrich and adapt its development programs to the country’s needs and context. The result is a set of Home Grown Solutions -- culturally owned practices translated into sustainable development programs.
One of these Home Grown Solutions is Umuganda.
Modern day Umuganda can be described as community work. Communities come together to do a variety of public works. This often includes infrastructure development and environmental protection. Rwandans between 18 and 65 are obliged to participate in Umuganda. Expatriates living in Rwanda are encouraged to take part.
Today close to 80% of Rwandans take part in monthly community work. Successful projects include the building of schools, medical centres and hydro electric plants as well as rehabilitating wetlands and creating highly productive agricultural plots.
The value of Umuganda to the people of Rwanda is immense and evidently seen. Attending one umuganda allowed me to see people coming together to achieve great goals. It is admiring seeing all ages helping out in smoothing out the road. I strongly recommend that you take part in at least one umuganda if you are in Rwanda!
Week Nine Roundup!
As our activities on Tuesday were cancelled, we had the day free. Tirion and I decided to head back to A.B.C. (now actually called J.Lynn’s, because it is under new management). This time we were greeted with an open door and once you opened the door, it was a lovely sight. The place was very cosy and beautifully decorated. The menu sounded delicious haha! I ordered a doughnut and a hot chocolate- but unfortunately, they did not have any hot chocolate- great! I just had a doughnut (and a chocolate chunk cookie which I saved for later). It is a nice place to hang out with friends, and it makes the experience even better knowing that all the money the business makes goes towards helping vulnerable and single women reignite their futures. It is these types of women that work there, as they are determined to have a bright future, they are doing something now about it.
On Thursday (with Claudine) and Friday (with Anna) I went to Restoration Church’s evening services. We were really blessed as though I don’t mind going to Kinyarwanda services (if I did I would just go to English services), the Word was in English! It was an awesome Message too, from a pastor from Zimbabwe. It was about having authority over the adversary. We, as Christians, have the ability and the authority to take control of our predicaments and condemn the enemy and overcome, with faith. God died for us so that we can have life- and that life is not to be taken from us by the adversary. We must stand up and take authority!
It is a Message that must resonate with us all on a daily basis as the fight against the enemy is a constant battle.
On Friday, guess what I did? I got my hair did!...again! Haha. Okay, it’s the last time I promise. I got thin braids and I love them! It took less than six hours to do, as two hairdressers were working my hair. It was so cheap- can you believe 10 quid-for the hair and to do! Incredible! It’s the perfect hairstyle to go home with, especially after hearing about the horrid weather that awaits me! Looking forward to it, I am not.
Cheers Nina for hooking me up with your hairdressers.
Saturday morning, Anna and I attended Umuganda. Umuganda is a government initiative that takes place on the last Saturday of every month. It is an awesome medium to bring the people of Rwanda together- other countries should take note. I have done a separate post on this, so check it out.
Sunday I attended two church services; it was our final Sunday so I definitely wanted to get the most out of it. I attended Christian Life Assembly in the morning and then Restoration Church for what we thought was going to be English service, but it ended up being in Kinyarwanda. No worries though, we had a really good translator- bless him. I thoroughly enjoyed both services as the Messages were important (hey, when are they never?) lessons that we need to know. I love the praise and worship at the churches out here- I have numerous recordings of the songs, that I know I am going to enjoy whilst playing them back!
We spent the majority of our time this week writing up case studies and debrief reports. As this time of year is the evaluation period for A.E.E., these sorts of things are to be expected to take place during this time of the year. So that’s why this week roundup may seem shorter than other- we were mainly office based or house based-typing!
Going into week ten, I pray for:
· Our final week. I pray that we have a blessed week and we enjoy it. That we take time to relax and reflect on the amazing nine weeks that just happened. I am SO grateful to God for this opportunity. To travel AND help others?? Man! This is what I LOVE! Seriously, I am beyond grateful.
· To EVERY SINGLE BODY that I came in contact with during my time here in Rwanda. Whether I briefly practiced my Kinyarwanda on the bus with you or I saw you every time I went into the A.E.E. offices, I pray that your futures are prosperous. And thank you for being a part of my adventure.
· My family back home. I’m coming back to you! I thank God for keeping you all safe whilst I have been away from you. I have missed you all and I am looking forward to seeing you all again. Love you all!
So I am going into my final week here in Rwanda. I know I am going to miss it here so much but I am grateful for all the opportunities I have been given out here. I cannot recommend it another. Go on! Go out there- see the world and volunteer!
On Thursday (with Claudine) and Friday (with Anna) I went to Restoration Church’s evening services. We were really blessed as though I don’t mind going to Kinyarwanda services (if I did I would just go to English services), the Word was in English! It was an awesome Message too, from a pastor from Zimbabwe. It was about having authority over the adversary. We, as Christians, have the ability and the authority to take control of our predicaments and condemn the enemy and overcome, with faith. God died for us so that we can have life- and that life is not to be taken from us by the adversary. We must stand up and take authority!
It is a Message that must resonate with us all on a daily basis as the fight against the enemy is a constant battle.
On Friday, guess what I did? I got my hair did!...again! Haha. Okay, it’s the last time I promise. I got thin braids and I love them! It took less than six hours to do, as two hairdressers were working my hair. It was so cheap- can you believe 10 quid-for the hair and to do! Incredible! It’s the perfect hairstyle to go home with, especially after hearing about the horrid weather that awaits me! Looking forward to it, I am not.
Cheers Nina for hooking me up with your hairdressers.
Saturday morning, Anna and I attended Umuganda. Umuganda is a government initiative that takes place on the last Saturday of every month. It is an awesome medium to bring the people of Rwanda together- other countries should take note. I have done a separate post on this, so check it out.
Sunday I attended two church services; it was our final Sunday so I definitely wanted to get the most out of it. I attended Christian Life Assembly in the morning and then Restoration Church for what we thought was going to be English service, but it ended up being in Kinyarwanda. No worries though, we had a really good translator- bless him. I thoroughly enjoyed both services as the Messages were important (hey, when are they never?) lessons that we need to know. I love the praise and worship at the churches out here- I have numerous recordings of the songs, that I know I am going to enjoy whilst playing them back!
We spent the majority of our time this week writing up case studies and debrief reports. As this time of year is the evaluation period for A.E.E., these sorts of things are to be expected to take place during this time of the year. So that’s why this week roundup may seem shorter than other- we were mainly office based or house based-typing!
Going into week ten, I pray for:
· Our final week. I pray that we have a blessed week and we enjoy it. That we take time to relax and reflect on the amazing nine weeks that just happened. I am SO grateful to God for this opportunity. To travel AND help others?? Man! This is what I LOVE! Seriously, I am beyond grateful.
· To EVERY SINGLE BODY that I came in contact with during my time here in Rwanda. Whether I briefly practiced my Kinyarwanda on the bus with you or I saw you every time I went into the A.E.E. offices, I pray that your futures are prosperous. And thank you for being a part of my adventure.
· My family back home. I’m coming back to you! I thank God for keeping you all safe whilst I have been away from you. I have missed you all and I am looking forward to seeing you all again. Love you all!
So I am going into my final week here in Rwanda. I know I am going to miss it here so much but I am grateful for all the opportunities I have been given out here. I cannot recommend it another. Go on! Go out there- see the world and volunteer!
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms"- 1 Peter 4:10.
Week eight with A.E.E.
Monday started with A.E.E. morning devotion. It was not like last week, but also not like how devotions were before the seminars. The devotion involved praying for specific things, and a Bible study on Ezra 8:21, which tells the story of how Ezra and the Israelites fasted and prayed, asking for God to intervene in their challanges (okay, so it does sound like how devotions were before). As all this week the A.E.E. staff are praying and fasting, they are asking God for guidance and direction and to intervene in their work. Prayers were made for repentance, thanksgiving and for themselves and their families and asking God to help them (us all) to maintain a friendship with Him. As that is how we must talk to Him, as a friend, because He is our friend, He wants to be our friend; we just have to let Him.
There was no staff meeting today as all the USAID staff (Sylvain, Donatilla and Wherny) were on leave. And then our team meeting was neither here nor there (if that makes sense). At the end of it all, a plan was made. But if that plan is to come to pass, is something we will see…
There was no staff meeting today as all the USAID staff (Sylvain, Donatilla and Wherny) were on leave. And then our team meeting was neither here nor there (if that makes sense). At the end of it all, a plan was made. But if that plan is to come to pass, is something we will see…
There was not much planned for Tuesday, only for us to go into the offices to work on some project reports with Rose. Unfortunately, we were informed in the morning that Alexis had been called to do some emergency work for Phanuel, so he was unable to facilitate us with the work we was to do with Rose-so the session had to be cancelled. That was a shame, as we felt that we could have done the work just as fine without him, because we have Denyse and Claudine. I guess he felt that he needed to be there with us. So as nothing else was planned for us, we had Tuesday free. We spent the morning working on the case studies that we have to write up, to hand in at the end to Tearfund and to DIFD (the UK department that ICS is operated by-Department for International Development). These are basically summaries of what we have experienced in the places we have gone to. I am writing case studies on (as previously mentioned) my visit with the Rwandan lawyer and the Muhumurize women self-help group- they are due in the final week.
Wednesday morning was spent at the catch up school. It is great to hear that we will have a session with them next week as we were fearing that this week would be our last session with them. I am going to miss them all. They are all so lovely and sweet, I’m simply going to miss them greeting us when we get out of the car. Bless them.
We first had a short morning assembly in one of the classrooms, which is always nice to witness. It is so clear that they love praising and worshipping God. And their dancing is great to watch. I have made many videos of it! Haha! Love it!
We then went outside to sing songs with the children and play games with them. We again recapped on songs we had previously taught them, and then taught them the song ‘Jesus loves me, this I know…’(remember that one?). It was awesome! We taught them line by line and they got it with ease. We even got them to sing girls vs. boys, with the help of Alexis. And of course, the girls came out on top! It was hilarious!
After this, Immaculée (a previous ICV) did her action at home. Action at home is something every volunteer has to do. You have to do some action relating to your placement and raise awareness of Tearfund/ICS. She spoke to the children about hygiene and checked and cut their finger nails.
I also briefly brought out my roller skates, but because they brought too much of a distraction to the kids, they had to be put away- but as it’s the last week next week I’ll let them go wild with them! Haha
We first had a short morning assembly in one of the classrooms, which is always nice to witness. It is so clear that they love praising and worshipping God. And their dancing is great to watch. I have made many videos of it! Haha! Love it!
We then went outside to sing songs with the children and play games with them. We again recapped on songs we had previously taught them, and then taught them the song ‘Jesus loves me, this I know…’(remember that one?). It was awesome! We taught them line by line and they got it with ease. We even got them to sing girls vs. boys, with the help of Alexis. And of course, the girls came out on top! It was hilarious!
After this, Immaculée (a previous ICV) did her action at home. Action at home is something every volunteer has to do. You have to do some action relating to your placement and raise awareness of Tearfund/ICS. She spoke to the children about hygiene and checked and cut their finger nails.
I also briefly brought out my roller skates, but because they brought too much of a distraction to the kids, they had to be put away- but as it’s the last week next week I’ll let them go wild with them! Haha
This week we made container gardens with the children. First, we sat them down for a little talk on them and what they are good for. They already knew about them and were shouting out what types of vegetables and fruits they can sow. After, we got them in teams to collect stones- these kids are competitive! Haha! This week we just filled the sacks with soil and stones, as the kids will come next week with the seeds/seedlings. This was very enjoyable as the kids got right into it. I had James helping me with a sack and he is awesome! All of them were awesome. We did not let the rain stop us; we carried on filling the sacks with soil and stones until they were all done and seriously heavy to move! After we gathered the children in a classroom again just to remind them to bring seedlings with them next week.
I am already sad that we have one more session left with these awesome kids. I am going to miss them all loads!
I am already sad that we have one more session left with these awesome kids. I am going to miss them all loads!
This Thursday was not as strenuous as last week. We spent the morning in the A.E.E. offices working with various staff on their various projects. I worked 1:1 with Donatilla. I have not worked with Donatilla on a 1:1 level before and she was a pleasure to work with. She is so advanced with her English and ICT skills, I was wondering if she actually needed me haha! We concluded with a well written success story (if I say so myself), and she was very pleased with my help and input. As always, I am happy to help.
As already mentioned, this Friday we were not needed because all the A.E.E. staff were spending the day in prayer and fasting. So, we had yet another day free.
Apologies for the lack of pictures this week, we were mainly based in office- but hey, you've got plenty to look at for 'Wednesday'! :D
Apologies for the lack of pictures this week, we were mainly based in office- but hey, you've got plenty to look at for 'Wednesday'! :D
Our Lord’s Prayer.
We tend to say the Lord’s prayer from Matthew 6 so many times, you may even say that you’ve forgotten its meaning and true importance.
Here is a different version of it that may reignite its meaning and resonate in you further:
Here is a different version of it that may reignite its meaning and resonate in you further:
Our Father who dwells in the Heavens and on the earth,
You are holy.
May Heaven be a greater present reality here on earth.
And may we choose to join you in making that happen.
Provide us today we the things that You know we need,
And may we not take for granted that which You have already provided.
Forgive us when we don’t live as You intend.
And may we be ready to forgive others when they don’t live as we intend.
Guide us in Your wisdom away from the things that would distort us.
And restore the parts in us that are already distorted.
You are goodness, beauty and truth.
May Your love rule always.
Amen.
You are holy.
May Heaven be a greater present reality here on earth.
And may we choose to join you in making that happen.
Provide us today we the things that You know we need,
And may we not take for granted that which You have already provided.
Forgive us when we don’t live as You intend.
And may we be ready to forgive others when they don’t live as we intend.
Guide us in Your wisdom away from the things that would distort us.
And restore the parts in us that are already distorted.
You are goodness, beauty and truth.
May Your love rule always.
Amen.
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
And finally, meet Valentin.
Valentin is an amazing human being. So lovely, helpful and humble, he was very welcoming from day one. He is a man that doesn’t do things by halves and a great person to be around. He always brought a smile to my face. Unfortunately, we were not teamed together on the same project, but I believe we teamed up to make a lasting friendship!
Full name: Valentin Ndishimye.
Favourite things to do: Praying, making friends, jogging, swimming, learning languages and travelling.
Favourite food: Banana and mango.
What did you study at university and why: I studied mass communications as a diploma and I am currently pursuing my degree in hospitality management. I am doing hospitality management because I want to have a diverse knowledge in different fields and above all I want to use them to serve God.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS because it was God’s plan.
Favourite word in English and why: Humility- because the word of God tells me that for those who humbles themselves, God will raise up. This is Matthew 23:12.
During the first week of the placement I enjoyed getting to know the ICV and their personalities. I hope you got a flavour of what they are about from the Q&A. They are all remarkable and admirable for choosing to do this project, and no doubt God will bless them all with prosperous and successful futures.
Full name: Valentin Ndishimye.
Favourite things to do: Praying, making friends, jogging, swimming, learning languages and travelling.
Favourite food: Banana and mango.
What did you study at university and why: I studied mass communications as a diploma and I am currently pursuing my degree in hospitality management. I am doing hospitality management because I want to have a diverse knowledge in different fields and above all I want to use them to serve God.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS because it was God’s plan.
Favourite word in English and why: Humility- because the word of God tells me that for those who humbles themselves, God will raise up. This is Matthew 23:12.
During the first week of the placement I enjoyed getting to know the ICV and their personalities. I hope you got a flavour of what they are about from the Q&A. They are all remarkable and admirable for choosing to do this project, and no doubt God will bless them all with prosperous and successful futures.
Week Eight Roundup!
Going into week nine, here are my reflections on week eight:
Monday afternoon Joan (the in country manager) came round to have a catch up with us. It has been a while since we last saw her and it was nice to see her again. We are now in the period of the placement of monitoring and evaluation, so we have a lot of debriefing material we have to get through, as a team and individually. We also talked about the clothes we got made- she is looking forward to seeing them just as much as we are! Haha!
Speaking of the clothes, Josephine came Tuesday evening with our first set of order’s clothes made. A mini fashion show took place as we tried them on and worked them! (Haha). Some of the clothes were ill-fitting however, so they needed to be taken back to be re-tailored. At the end, we all made more orders! I know, I know, it’s an addiction… for all of us! Haha. It’s just the prints and the designs are too good
Josephine also came back on Friday this week with the clothes tailored and also other things we ordered on Tuesday. And of course, this was an opportunity for us to put in more orders! God bless her! She is getting worked, but she knows that she will be rewarded.
On Wednesday evening we had previous ICVs round for dinner and socialising. It was really nice to have them all together (as previously we have met Immaculée before on her own and the boys last week when they briefly popped by) and get to know them and how their time was on their placements. It was very interesting to hear their stories and how, as team leaders, they dealt with things. It is clear that at times there are going to be stumbling blocks in the way, but it is important that you work as a team to get pass them. God bless Constance- she prepared a delicious and seriously filling meal for us. Everyone went back for more! The night ended with us taking lots and lots of pictures and having a devotion (led by the previous team’s leader, Stephen) on working together for God’s purpose. Despite the numerous power cuts that took place throughout the evening, the evening was absolutely lovely.
As we had the afternoon free on Thursday, Tirion and I went to Kicukirio to search for the African Bagel Company (A.B.C.). We found it (yay!) but only to be greeted with closed door- they closed at 4pm on weekdays- we got there at 5pm. That was quite annoying, but hey, at least we know where it is now. So we decided to head back in the direction of home. As Tirion is staying on, she is also looking for a place to stay, so we went into the Umubano Hotel. We ended up being in there for about 45 minutes as there was a free art exhibition on display. The artworks were all divine. All by a Rwandan artist called Epa. They all told different stories of African life. All wonderfully made, and a little out of my budget! Nonetheless, it did not stop us from looking at them (and eating the yummy canapés that were in the room for the reception of a meeting that just took place! Haha!) and admiring their beauty.
Claudine, Anna and I attended Restoration Church’s Friday evening service. Claudine and I love that church so much- it is so full of life and God’s presence. I am glad that they are getting a bigger and better building-they really deserve it! The Message was about being a disciple of God. That we must be Christ like and follow Him in all things- we must allow Him to take the lead.
I am really going to miss this church.
Saturday evening, Tirion and I treated ourselves to Chinese food. Now I love Chinese food and was really excited to be finally trying out a Chinese restaurant here in Kigali. It was yummy yummy yummy! I got my classic-sweet and sour chicken and it was the bomb! Haha! It was a nice change of cuisine and very much appreciated!
On Sunday, Claudine and I attended a church that none of us has not been to yet. Foursquare Gospel Church was a 10 minute walk from our house and because we past it nearly every day, we thought we should check it out. We first attended the English service, and the Message was about seeking and knowing God. It was a lovely service and we were warmly welcomed. We particularly liked when the teens took the stage and showcased their talents. They sang the song ‘I am not forgotten’. I have not heard the song in a while and I am so glad they sang it as it is such a great and powerful song, that will without a doubt lift you. Thanks kids for the reminder- we are not forgotten, God knows our name.
We then decided to stay for the praise and worship in the Kinyarwanda service- which was just a-maze-ing! It was sooo good. Though I did not entirely understand/know the songs, I still danced and rejoiced as the songs were about our God. We did not stay for the Word as it was the same in the English service. I am glad that I got a chance to try a gospel church and it was a very rewarding experience.
The week ended with a visit to Denyse’s family home in Gikondo. Yes! Finally! It was such a lovely evening as the family were all very welcoming and hospitable towards us. We were treated with peanuts, sodas and a buffet style dinner. Absolutely yum! We also got to watch ‘Project Fame 6’ on the television- which was just hilarious. It had us in stitches! It was nice to talk with Denyse’s parents too as they wanted to know lots about us and what we think about things. The night ended with us taking lots and lots of pictures- and Claudine picking up a Rwandan movie, which we all want to watch!
Finally I would just like to add how proud I am of the team as we managed to survive 3 and a half days without power in our house! Yup! The power cut lasted that long this time!!!!!!!!! At times it hindered us, but thank God we did not go crazy- besides, we had our phone lights; torches and candles!
Going into week nine, I pray for:
Chantal. Chantal is Innocent's (the A.E.E. accountant) wife. We went to visit her in hospital on Tuesday. I rather not go into much detail about this, but we continue to pray for the progression of her health and recovery. It is awesome news to hear that she is back home-may God continue to bless her and the family.
Josephine. As we put her to work, I pray that you give her the strength to do what she loves the most.
The previous ICVs. It was really great to meet them this week and I pray that as many of them are still looking for jobs, that You provide them with something. Also, allow them to see that it may take time, but their futures will be prosperous.
Monday afternoon Joan (the in country manager) came round to have a catch up with us. It has been a while since we last saw her and it was nice to see her again. We are now in the period of the placement of monitoring and evaluation, so we have a lot of debriefing material we have to get through, as a team and individually. We also talked about the clothes we got made- she is looking forward to seeing them just as much as we are! Haha!
Speaking of the clothes, Josephine came Tuesday evening with our first set of order’s clothes made. A mini fashion show took place as we tried them on and worked them! (Haha). Some of the clothes were ill-fitting however, so they needed to be taken back to be re-tailored. At the end, we all made more orders! I know, I know, it’s an addiction… for all of us! Haha. It’s just the prints and the designs are too good
Josephine also came back on Friday this week with the clothes tailored and also other things we ordered on Tuesday. And of course, this was an opportunity for us to put in more orders! God bless her! She is getting worked, but she knows that she will be rewarded.
On Wednesday evening we had previous ICVs round for dinner and socialising. It was really nice to have them all together (as previously we have met Immaculée before on her own and the boys last week when they briefly popped by) and get to know them and how their time was on their placements. It was very interesting to hear their stories and how, as team leaders, they dealt with things. It is clear that at times there are going to be stumbling blocks in the way, but it is important that you work as a team to get pass them. God bless Constance- she prepared a delicious and seriously filling meal for us. Everyone went back for more! The night ended with us taking lots and lots of pictures and having a devotion (led by the previous team’s leader, Stephen) on working together for God’s purpose. Despite the numerous power cuts that took place throughout the evening, the evening was absolutely lovely.
As we had the afternoon free on Thursday, Tirion and I went to Kicukirio to search for the African Bagel Company (A.B.C.). We found it (yay!) but only to be greeted with closed door- they closed at 4pm on weekdays- we got there at 5pm. That was quite annoying, but hey, at least we know where it is now. So we decided to head back in the direction of home. As Tirion is staying on, she is also looking for a place to stay, so we went into the Umubano Hotel. We ended up being in there for about 45 minutes as there was a free art exhibition on display. The artworks were all divine. All by a Rwandan artist called Epa. They all told different stories of African life. All wonderfully made, and a little out of my budget! Nonetheless, it did not stop us from looking at them (and eating the yummy canapés that were in the room for the reception of a meeting that just took place! Haha!) and admiring their beauty.
Claudine, Anna and I attended Restoration Church’s Friday evening service. Claudine and I love that church so much- it is so full of life and God’s presence. I am glad that they are getting a bigger and better building-they really deserve it! The Message was about being a disciple of God. That we must be Christ like and follow Him in all things- we must allow Him to take the lead.
I am really going to miss this church.
Saturday evening, Tirion and I treated ourselves to Chinese food. Now I love Chinese food and was really excited to be finally trying out a Chinese restaurant here in Kigali. It was yummy yummy yummy! I got my classic-sweet and sour chicken and it was the bomb! Haha! It was a nice change of cuisine and very much appreciated!
On Sunday, Claudine and I attended a church that none of us has not been to yet. Foursquare Gospel Church was a 10 minute walk from our house and because we past it nearly every day, we thought we should check it out. We first attended the English service, and the Message was about seeking and knowing God. It was a lovely service and we were warmly welcomed. We particularly liked when the teens took the stage and showcased their talents. They sang the song ‘I am not forgotten’. I have not heard the song in a while and I am so glad they sang it as it is such a great and powerful song, that will without a doubt lift you. Thanks kids for the reminder- we are not forgotten, God knows our name.
We then decided to stay for the praise and worship in the Kinyarwanda service- which was just a-maze-ing! It was sooo good. Though I did not entirely understand/know the songs, I still danced and rejoiced as the songs were about our God. We did not stay for the Word as it was the same in the English service. I am glad that I got a chance to try a gospel church and it was a very rewarding experience.
The week ended with a visit to Denyse’s family home in Gikondo. Yes! Finally! It was such a lovely evening as the family were all very welcoming and hospitable towards us. We were treated with peanuts, sodas and a buffet style dinner. Absolutely yum! We also got to watch ‘Project Fame 6’ on the television- which was just hilarious. It had us in stitches! It was nice to talk with Denyse’s parents too as they wanted to know lots about us and what we think about things. The night ended with us taking lots and lots of pictures- and Claudine picking up a Rwandan movie, which we all want to watch!
Finally I would just like to add how proud I am of the team as we managed to survive 3 and a half days without power in our house! Yup! The power cut lasted that long this time!!!!!!!!! At times it hindered us, but thank God we did not go crazy- besides, we had our phone lights; torches and candles!
Going into week nine, I pray for:
Chantal. Chantal is Innocent's (the A.E.E. accountant) wife. We went to visit her in hospital on Tuesday. I rather not go into much detail about this, but we continue to pray for the progression of her health and recovery. It is awesome news to hear that she is back home-may God continue to bless her and the family.
Josephine. As we put her to work, I pray that you give her the strength to do what she loves the most.
The previous ICVs. It was really great to meet them this week and I pray that as many of them are still looking for jobs, that You provide them with something. Also, allow them to see that it may take time, but their futures will be prosperous.
"Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law."-Romans 13: 8-10.
Week seven with A.E.E.
Monday morning started with A.E.E. devotion, but it was devotion with a twist. This week, the A.E.E. staff will be having seminars on ‘family (umuryango) and divorce’, and what the Bible says about them. It was a very interesting and enlightening seminar (as they do this set up of devotions on a periodic basis), which consisted of group work and discussions. I was able to further develop my understanding of the life cycle and the importance of balancing all the elements-with God being in the centre of everything.
The life cycle had God in the center. In the middle circle is family. And in the outer circle are job; social; environment; finance; education; body; and God's Word.
For everything, you must set goals.
After the devotion, was (of course) the weekly staff meeting. This week it was led by Donatilla again, as Phanuel was away being his daughter was ill. As well as Phanuel, Aimable was ill and not present, and (to add the straw that broke the camel’s back, so to speak) Eustache has been transferred to another A.E.E. branch out of Kigali. It seems like it has been every week (it has been every week!) that we are hearing upsetting about a staff member. It can be disheartening, but we must remember to persevere in prayer.
During the meeting, we spoke about how successful it was collecting success stories from the A.E.E. beneficiaries, and also about the success of the implementation of ideas on Wednesday at the catch up school. Once the staff meeting was over, we had our team meeting which ending with us having a plan for the week ahead-the eight week! *arggghhhh week eight already*.
The life cycle had God in the center. In the middle circle is family. And in the outer circle are job; social; environment; finance; education; body; and God's Word.
For everything, you must set goals.
After the devotion, was (of course) the weekly staff meeting. This week it was led by Donatilla again, as Phanuel was away being his daughter was ill. As well as Phanuel, Aimable was ill and not present, and (to add the straw that broke the camel’s back, so to speak) Eustache has been transferred to another A.E.E. branch out of Kigali. It seems like it has been every week (it has been every week!) that we are hearing upsetting about a staff member. It can be disheartening, but we must remember to persevere in prayer.
During the meeting, we spoke about how successful it was collecting success stories from the A.E.E. beneficiaries, and also about the success of the implementation of ideas on Wednesday at the catch up school. Once the staff meeting was over, we had our team meeting which ending with us having a plan for the week ahead-the eight week! *arggghhhh week eight already*.
Tuesday morning was spent at the A.E.E. offices with Claudine and Tirion, helping Rose write up her success story (the one we collected at the vegetable and charcoal co-operative). This took up most of the afternoon as we went into detail about what we were told. It was a job well done, and a very successful story to write up. The project is funded by Riverview, so they should be content after reading this success story (and the ones to come) and see that their funding is making a change to the people of Rwanda!
Wednesday, as usual, was spent at the catch up school. It was only the five of us that went to the school this morning, as we had a man down again. Any guesses? Answer, the team leader, Tirion. As she said herself, she does not have the stomach for Africa haha!
The morning started with a morning assembly and then with us going over songs that we had previously taught them and then leading them in some games. It was clear that they especially liked ‘stuck in the mud’ (remember playing that? Good times!), where the chasers were bacteria and no wanted to be caught by bacteria, no sir, so it was hilarious seeing the children get so into the game and running far and wide (and even hiding for the whole duration of the game) across the field.
After these wearing-out activities, the children were led into a classroom by Alexis to be taught about washing your hands. We taught them all together as there weren’t as many children as there has been the previous weeks. We first went over the seven steps with them on how to wash your hands, with accompanying actions, which they copied impeccably. Then we taught them the ‘washing hands’ songs. Now, they caught on to it quick! We were impressed! We even got them singing the song in groups, with one group having a delay start so they sang different lines on top of each other. It was great!
After the classroom session, the kids were taken to where the tippy-tap was built and got taught about the importance of washing hands and looking after their tippy-tap. This was followed by demonstrations by the children on how to use the tippy-tap correctly, whilst others sang the song. It is easy to say, today was very successful! Thank God!
The morning started with a morning assembly and then with us going over songs that we had previously taught them and then leading them in some games. It was clear that they especially liked ‘stuck in the mud’ (remember playing that? Good times!), where the chasers were bacteria and no wanted to be caught by bacteria, no sir, so it was hilarious seeing the children get so into the game and running far and wide (and even hiding for the whole duration of the game) across the field.
After these wearing-out activities, the children were led into a classroom by Alexis to be taught about washing your hands. We taught them all together as there weren’t as many children as there has been the previous weeks. We first went over the seven steps with them on how to wash your hands, with accompanying actions, which they copied impeccably. Then we taught them the ‘washing hands’ songs. Now, they caught on to it quick! We were impressed! We even got them singing the song in groups, with one group having a delay start so they sang different lines on top of each other. It was great!
After the classroom session, the kids were taken to where the tippy-tap was built and got taught about the importance of washing hands and looking after their tippy-tap. This was followed by demonstrations by the children on how to use the tippy-tap correctly, whilst others sang the song. It is easy to say, today was very successful! Thank God!
Claudine, Nancy, Tirion and I spent Wednesday afternoon at the women self-help group in Kacyiru. We began with a recap on conversational and commercial English we taught them in the previous weeks. This was done in small groups, and in my group I got them to say the word in English, which I said first in Kinyarwanda. It worked well and it is clear that progress has been made, but of course, there is still a way to go. We then ended the session with them learning numbers (which they knew-awesome!). It is always nice to see these women as it is not every week that we get to see them due to one issue or the other, nonetheless, they are always happy when we are around. If this is a project that the next team get involved in, I do hope that they maintain and make stronger the relation these women have with A.E.E. and its volunteers.
Thursday morning was spent at the farming co-operative in Kimihurura (Claudine, Tirion and I have not been back here since our introduction week, the others came here when we had communication training). They were initially shocked to see us as (due to a lack of communication, surprise surprise) they were not made aware that we would be coming this morning, and most of their morning activities are completed by 7am. No worries though, they were happy to see us, and, don’t think we were just standing around, there is always something to do!
We helped the incredibly strong women (don’t let appearances fool you) with the digging of the soil, as once that was done, vegetable seeds will be replanted there. We also did some weeding of the soil around plants. I enjoy doing manual labour and working with these women gave you the encouragement to go on when you get tired (sometimes even just by looking at them!). They are so good at it! It is a sight to see. God bless them.
Before we departed, we gathered in their meeting room to hear the president of the co-operative speak. He (and the women) were very grateful for our help and they also told us that they managed to make enough money from selling their vegetables to increase the size of their goat pen! Amen! That is great news to hear.
Just before we left, with the cabbage I weeded (or, the baby alien- it just reminded me of one, like I’ve seen one haha) I fed the rabbits. It was feeding time and they were hungry for it. That was a nice way to end the morning with these incredible, humble people. May God continue to bless them all.
In the afternoon, we were meant to go to the A.E.E. offices to help Alexis write up some more case studies. Unfortunately, the activity was cancelled because Alexis had an emergency meeting he had to attend- so we had the afternoon off to do whatever.
We helped the incredibly strong women (don’t let appearances fool you) with the digging of the soil, as once that was done, vegetable seeds will be replanted there. We also did some weeding of the soil around plants. I enjoy doing manual labour and working with these women gave you the encouragement to go on when you get tired (sometimes even just by looking at them!). They are so good at it! It is a sight to see. God bless them.
Before we departed, we gathered in their meeting room to hear the president of the co-operative speak. He (and the women) were very grateful for our help and they also told us that they managed to make enough money from selling their vegetables to increase the size of their goat pen! Amen! That is great news to hear.
Just before we left, with the cabbage I weeded (or, the baby alien- it just reminded me of one, like I’ve seen one haha) I fed the rabbits. It was feeding time and they were hungry for it. That was a nice way to end the morning with these incredible, humble people. May God continue to bless them all.
In the afternoon, we were meant to go to the A.E.E. offices to help Alexis write up some more case studies. Unfortunately, the activity was cancelled because Alexis had an emergency meeting he had to attend- so we had the afternoon off to do whatever.
Friday’s devotion lasted a hour and a half on focused again on the family and marriage/divorce, with specific discussions on meeting your partner’s needs. Of course this is very important in every relationship, it is the main course for relationships to break down. A book entitled ‘His Needs, Her Needs’ by Willard Harley was recommended (I read a bit about it on line and it does sound good!) as meeting your partner’s needs must be at the forefront of what you do.
After the devotion, we did not have an English lesson as per normal, instead Tirion did a short session on how to write excellent success stories- which included what a story must do- which is paint a picture; be passionate; and be personal.
After the teaching session, the others had 1:1 sessions with the staff to help them write up their success stories using what they had just learnt. I, instead, worked with Sylvain to improve the A.E.E. blog. I love blogs- they are a great way to keep people informed of things and to see your own personal journey in whatever your blog is about- that is why I want A.E.E. to have the best blog they can get! The previous Tearfund/ICS team started a blog, which was great, but I believe it needs a lot of tweaking. So we began tweaking it today! In fact, I decided that it was best if we started again, from scratch, so that Sylvain can see the process of how a blog is produced from the beginning. We will use the information already presented, but on a blog site that is better presented. There is work to do…!
This Friday also marked the last Friday we will have a teaching session with the staff. *sad face*. This is because next week Friday, they are having a whole day of prayer and fasting and the Friday after that will be the day we will be returning to the Tearfund headquarters for our debrief. It has been an awesome experience teaching the staff as the progression in English and ICT has been so evident and amazing to see.
I pray the next team carries on this awesomeness!
After the devotion, we did not have an English lesson as per normal, instead Tirion did a short session on how to write excellent success stories- which included what a story must do- which is paint a picture; be passionate; and be personal.
After the teaching session, the others had 1:1 sessions with the staff to help them write up their success stories using what they had just learnt. I, instead, worked with Sylvain to improve the A.E.E. blog. I love blogs- they are a great way to keep people informed of things and to see your own personal journey in whatever your blog is about- that is why I want A.E.E. to have the best blog they can get! The previous Tearfund/ICS team started a blog, which was great, but I believe it needs a lot of tweaking. So we began tweaking it today! In fact, I decided that it was best if we started again, from scratch, so that Sylvain can see the process of how a blog is produced from the beginning. We will use the information already presented, but on a blog site that is better presented. There is work to do…!
This Friday also marked the last Friday we will have a teaching session with the staff. *sad face*. This is because next week Friday, they are having a whole day of prayer and fasting and the Friday after that will be the day we will be returning to the Tearfund headquarters for our debrief. It has been an awesome experience teaching the staff as the progression in English and ICT has been so evident and amazing to see.
I pray the next team carries on this awesomeness!
Tearfund/ICS Media Pictures!
My name is Teta.
Nitwar Teta.
One of the wonderful children I teach at the catch-up school is Teta. Teta, like many others, have stood out to me because of her sheer passion and determination to learn and give herself a prosperous future.
I want to share her story with you.
Mukundwa (meaning lovely) Teta is 13 years old. She has been going to the catch-up school for a year now, and she started in level 2. She is attending the catch-up school because her father could no longer afford the school fees for the regular school she was attending for 3 years- so Teta had to leave that school.
When I asked her about her living conditions at home, she told me that her mother died when she was 3 years old, and now it is just her, her father and her four siblings- she is the third born. However, she does not live with any of them, as her aunt (her father’s sister) took her in, because she saw that her brother could not manage to look after all his children on his own. So now, three siblings remain with their father, and another is with their uncle (Teta’s mum’s brother) and it is just Teta who lives with her aunt, as well as a female cousin and some housegirls(servants). Unfortunately, she does not see her dad very often, though he is here living in Kigali.
Teta enjoys playing games-but not boy’s games like football. She also enjoys reading and especially learning.
When asked about what she finds hard about life at her age, Teta replied that she finds it hard when she thinks about not having her parents around, it makes her sad and lonely. Also, when she is thinks about what the future has in store for her, she gets worried, because it is unsure and this leaves her with doubt.
She does however have her faith to keep her strong- though at times, her faith can get weakened. This is because she does all her best to stay positive in her tribulations because she knows that God will make a way for her. But, sometimes she can’t help but lose hope and faith when she is sad because she has no parents and no one to care for her at times.
Finally, I asked Teta about her hopes and dreams for the future, she replied that she wants to become a teacher at a secondary school. This is because she thinks it will be a great job-helping others learn and having fun in the process, like how she has fun with the teachers here at the catch-up school!
To end, I cannot not thank A.E.E. for the catch-school as without its presence in the community, so many children will have nowhere to learn and this fact is so disheartening, especially when they are keen and desperate to learn. Thank you A.E.E.
Please keep Tata and other children like her in your prayers.
Thanks Teta for the interview.
Thanks Nina for being the translator.
GBU both!
I want to share her story with you.
Mukundwa (meaning lovely) Teta is 13 years old. She has been going to the catch-up school for a year now, and she started in level 2. She is attending the catch-up school because her father could no longer afford the school fees for the regular school she was attending for 3 years- so Teta had to leave that school.
When I asked her about her living conditions at home, she told me that her mother died when she was 3 years old, and now it is just her, her father and her four siblings- she is the third born. However, she does not live with any of them, as her aunt (her father’s sister) took her in, because she saw that her brother could not manage to look after all his children on his own. So now, three siblings remain with their father, and another is with their uncle (Teta’s mum’s brother) and it is just Teta who lives with her aunt, as well as a female cousin and some housegirls(servants). Unfortunately, she does not see her dad very often, though he is here living in Kigali.
Teta enjoys playing games-but not boy’s games like football. She also enjoys reading and especially learning.
When asked about what she finds hard about life at her age, Teta replied that she finds it hard when she thinks about not having her parents around, it makes her sad and lonely. Also, when she is thinks about what the future has in store for her, she gets worried, because it is unsure and this leaves her with doubt.
She does however have her faith to keep her strong- though at times, her faith can get weakened. This is because she does all her best to stay positive in her tribulations because she knows that God will make a way for her. But, sometimes she can’t help but lose hope and faith when she is sad because she has no parents and no one to care for her at times.
Finally, I asked Teta about her hopes and dreams for the future, she replied that she wants to become a teacher at a secondary school. This is because she thinks it will be a great job-helping others learn and having fun in the process, like how she has fun with the teachers here at the catch-up school!
To end, I cannot not thank A.E.E. for the catch-school as without its presence in the community, so many children will have nowhere to learn and this fact is so disheartening, especially when they are keen and desperate to learn. Thank you A.E.E.
Please keep Tata and other children like her in your prayers.
Thanks Teta for the interview.
Thanks Nina for being the translator.
GBU both!
A big, fat, gigantic, masshooosive, enormous THANK YOOOOOOOOOOOUUUUUUUUUUU!
I just wanted to take a moment to thank all the wonderful, awesome people who sponsored me to get here. Without your monetary contribution to my fund, there's a possibility that I would not have made it here! You all have enabled me to get my butt here to do what I enjoy doing-helping others who need our help- and for that, I thank you. Lots and lots and lots and lots! Haha! So, if you are reading this and you are one of those people who sponsored me (be it a facebook friend, or you brought my clothes at the car boot sale, or you dropped money in my collection bucket whilst I packed your bags at Tesco, or you gave me the Jack Petchey Award), have a look at my site and see what you have enabled! God bless you!!
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
Meet Aurore.
Full name: Uwamariya Aurore.
Favourite thing to do: Pray.
Favourite food: Fish and chips.
What did you study at university and why: Environmental chemistry because I am interesting in the environment; how to take care of it and to sustain it.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: First of all I heard about Tearfund from a friend, and she told about the good work of the ICS programme, and I became interested in about doing something for others. I also want to make a contribution to the development of my country.
Favourite word(s) in English and why: ‘My God!’- because I like saying it when I am excited and I love God very much, because He loves me.
Favourite thing to do: Pray.
Favourite food: Fish and chips.
What did you study at university and why: Environmental chemistry because I am interesting in the environment; how to take care of it and to sustain it.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: First of all I heard about Tearfund from a friend, and she told about the good work of the ICS programme, and I became interested in about doing something for others. I also want to make a contribution to the development of my country.
Favourite word(s) in English and why: ‘My God!’- because I like saying it when I am excited and I love God very much, because He loves me.
Week Seven Roundup!
Going into week eight, here are my reflections on week seven:
Josephine came back on Monday afternoon to bring more materials for me to look at. Ahhh she is so amazing and sweet. As she showed me the new material, I couldn’t help myself- I had to order more things! The prints just spoke to me! Haha (lame excuse I know). I’m pretty proud of the fact that I was able to order more things actually because I am not fluent in Kinyarwanda or French and nor is she fluent in English, but somehow, we made it work- I showed her my designs (with help from the ASOS magazine I brought) and she took my measurements- now we just have to wait a week until our garments are ready!....oooooo excited!!
I am very thankful to Phanuel (the A.E.E. branch co-ordinator) for setting up a meeting between me and a lawyer on Monday evening. Studying law at university has got me really interested in how different countries govern, and how the roles of lawyers vary in their respective countries. Additionally, as part of our personal development we have been asked to do personal case studies and obviously this is the idea subject to do mine on. I met with a private lawyer called Diogéne Niyibizi. He has been a lawyer in Kigali for the past four years and works with both Rwandan and foreign clients. I enjoyed the couple of hours I spent with him and Phanuel and Diogéne as I got a deeper understanding of how the law functions in Rwanda (and how charismatic Rwandans can get!). Cheers Phanuel, you’re awesome!
For a few weeks now we have been receiving wake-up calls from these really cute birds pecking at our windows. They are so cute but with mighty force as the pecking is seriously loud and can wake up the heaviest sleeper. Bless them. It must be the season that has brought them all of a sudden. Additionally, there has been debates at the table as to whether the noises we are hearing as we eat, are the sounds of goats or a baby crying-trust me, they are very similar! The verdict is the neighbour’s goats. They make noise day and night, and always first thing in the morning. I think these sounds are something I’m going to miss haha!
As we were not needed on Friday morning, we decided to utilise the time and head to Club Marembo, which is located behind Sole Luna. Club Marembo is an organisation which helps young children and women going through hard times. At the orientation we were given we were told about the awesome activities Club Marembo do with the vulnerable- which include a drop in centre on Saturdays, where the kids come to simply have fun. Club Marembo also provide houses for the young boys and girls to live, but we were at the building where the staff make the crafts in which they sell here and aboard.
Our last stop of the orientation was the crafts gift shop-and we were in there forever! There was so much to choose from! And so many prints! It was hard to decide but I opted for a toiletries bag and a doll(not for me, for my nieces haha)! Plus the bag it came in was a BIG incentive to purchase things (it's sell-able on its own) haha!
On Saturday Anna, Tirion and I attended a Christmas Bazaar at Christ's Church Rwanda, located in Gacuriro. Now, it took us forever to get there and when we arrived I felt like I wasn’t in Rwanda, let alone Kigali anymore. The area reminded me of somewhere in Europe (or let’s just say a suburb in Shropshire) and was totally different from the areas I am used to going- i.e. the areas of Kimronko and town.
I really enjoyed myself at the bazaar as there were numerous stores selling awesome Rwandan handicrafts. The audience was very diverse (it was like being back in London) -I managed to buy some Chinese steam buns (yum) and got chatting to some Japanese volunteers and even an Australian woman. I brought two awesome bags-one made from traditional African prints and the other from banana leaves- they are too cool for school! I also got a couple of other things, they were reasonable priced so I was able to go (somewhat) wild. Haha! After the bazzar we headed into town, where I visited my favourite Chinese supermarket (I love speaking Chinese with the staff and shoppers haha) and I got loads of my favourite noodles! Happy days!
On Sunday we attended a church we had not yet been to. Located in Kabeza, where the A.E.E. offices are, Eglise Apostolique Pour Le Reveil Au Rwanda’s (Apostolic Revival Church Rwanda) service lasted just over 2 hours and was in Kinyarwanada. It was a pleasant service and the Message focused on the importance of family and how to treat your domestic staff (as here in Rwanda, and most likely all over Africa, people have house servants to cook and clean for them). It was a lovely morning, and ended with us getting free sodas in the welcome room for guest!
After church we made our way home- with an additional team member. Christine must have seen us from inside the church, waited for us to be done in the guest room and then attached herself to us. She said that she followed and wanted to come with us because of love, ahhh bless her. She was so sweet- at 16, she just wanted some company. Many thoughts were running through our head as we invited her into the house, and gave her food and just time to relax. She told us that her home life wasn’t that great and she was ill treated by her family- this made us sad, as it was clear that she wanted us to help her out. We were very hospitable towards her and hope that the afternoon she spent with us made her happy. She took our details so if she needs us, hopefully she will contact us.
Going into week eight, I pray for:
· The children at the catch up school. They all go to that school for various reasons and I pray that God keeps them strong and able and in faith that their futures’ will be bright.
· Innocent’s wife, Chantal. She has been in hospital for some time now and we just continue to pray for her health to improve and that she can go home soon to her family, where she belongs.
· Christine. I pray that she stays in the faith that her trials and tribulations will not last and betters days are coming.
Josephine came back on Monday afternoon to bring more materials for me to look at. Ahhh she is so amazing and sweet. As she showed me the new material, I couldn’t help myself- I had to order more things! The prints just spoke to me! Haha (lame excuse I know). I’m pretty proud of the fact that I was able to order more things actually because I am not fluent in Kinyarwanda or French and nor is she fluent in English, but somehow, we made it work- I showed her my designs (with help from the ASOS magazine I brought) and she took my measurements- now we just have to wait a week until our garments are ready!....oooooo excited!!
I am very thankful to Phanuel (the A.E.E. branch co-ordinator) for setting up a meeting between me and a lawyer on Monday evening. Studying law at university has got me really interested in how different countries govern, and how the roles of lawyers vary in their respective countries. Additionally, as part of our personal development we have been asked to do personal case studies and obviously this is the idea subject to do mine on. I met with a private lawyer called Diogéne Niyibizi. He has been a lawyer in Kigali for the past four years and works with both Rwandan and foreign clients. I enjoyed the couple of hours I spent with him and Phanuel and Diogéne as I got a deeper understanding of how the law functions in Rwanda (and how charismatic Rwandans can get!). Cheers Phanuel, you’re awesome!
For a few weeks now we have been receiving wake-up calls from these really cute birds pecking at our windows. They are so cute but with mighty force as the pecking is seriously loud and can wake up the heaviest sleeper. Bless them. It must be the season that has brought them all of a sudden. Additionally, there has been debates at the table as to whether the noises we are hearing as we eat, are the sounds of goats or a baby crying-trust me, they are very similar! The verdict is the neighbour’s goats. They make noise day and night, and always first thing in the morning. I think these sounds are something I’m going to miss haha!
As we were not needed on Friday morning, we decided to utilise the time and head to Club Marembo, which is located behind Sole Luna. Club Marembo is an organisation which helps young children and women going through hard times. At the orientation we were given we were told about the awesome activities Club Marembo do with the vulnerable- which include a drop in centre on Saturdays, where the kids come to simply have fun. Club Marembo also provide houses for the young boys and girls to live, but we were at the building where the staff make the crafts in which they sell here and aboard.
Our last stop of the orientation was the crafts gift shop-and we were in there forever! There was so much to choose from! And so many prints! It was hard to decide but I opted for a toiletries bag and a doll(not for me, for my nieces haha)! Plus the bag it came in was a BIG incentive to purchase things (it's sell-able on its own) haha!
On Saturday Anna, Tirion and I attended a Christmas Bazaar at Christ's Church Rwanda, located in Gacuriro. Now, it took us forever to get there and when we arrived I felt like I wasn’t in Rwanda, let alone Kigali anymore. The area reminded me of somewhere in Europe (or let’s just say a suburb in Shropshire) and was totally different from the areas I am used to going- i.e. the areas of Kimronko and town.
I really enjoyed myself at the bazaar as there were numerous stores selling awesome Rwandan handicrafts. The audience was very diverse (it was like being back in London) -I managed to buy some Chinese steam buns (yum) and got chatting to some Japanese volunteers and even an Australian woman. I brought two awesome bags-one made from traditional African prints and the other from banana leaves- they are too cool for school! I also got a couple of other things, they were reasonable priced so I was able to go (somewhat) wild. Haha! After the bazzar we headed into town, where I visited my favourite Chinese supermarket (I love speaking Chinese with the staff and shoppers haha) and I got loads of my favourite noodles! Happy days!
On Sunday we attended a church we had not yet been to. Located in Kabeza, where the A.E.E. offices are, Eglise Apostolique Pour Le Reveil Au Rwanda’s (Apostolic Revival Church Rwanda) service lasted just over 2 hours and was in Kinyarwanada. It was a pleasant service and the Message focused on the importance of family and how to treat your domestic staff (as here in Rwanda, and most likely all over Africa, people have house servants to cook and clean for them). It was a lovely morning, and ended with us getting free sodas in the welcome room for guest!
After church we made our way home- with an additional team member. Christine must have seen us from inside the church, waited for us to be done in the guest room and then attached herself to us. She said that she followed and wanted to come with us because of love, ahhh bless her. She was so sweet- at 16, she just wanted some company. Many thoughts were running through our head as we invited her into the house, and gave her food and just time to relax. She told us that her home life wasn’t that great and she was ill treated by her family- this made us sad, as it was clear that she wanted us to help her out. We were very hospitable towards her and hope that the afternoon she spent with us made her happy. She took our details so if she needs us, hopefully she will contact us.
Going into week eight, I pray for:
· The children at the catch up school. They all go to that school for various reasons and I pray that God keeps them strong and able and in faith that their futures’ will be bright.
· Innocent’s wife, Chantal. She has been in hospital for some time now and we just continue to pray for her health to improve and that she can go home soon to her family, where she belongs.
· Christine. I pray that she stays in the faith that her trials and tribulations will not last and betters days are coming.
Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.-Hebrews 13: 15-16.
Week Six with A.E.E.
Unfortunately, we missed the A.E.E. devotion on Monday morning as we were picked up late, due to there being issues with the car- this can be frustrating but it is something we are used to. We have learnt that whenever a time has been set for departures from the house-it depends on current circumstances of the day for it to be abide by or not. This is something out of our control…then again, you must remember ‘Africa time’.
Anyways, we made the A.E.E. staff meeting, and it was great to see Innocent back! We all welcomed him back and he gave us an update of his wife’s condition. Slowly but surely she is getting better. We must continue to pray for her and the whole family.
Phanuel, the A.E.E. branch coordinator, asked everyone how their weekend had been-which somehow led to a debate about how as a preacher, how do you measure your impact?? Now that is a question we all can consider- for whatever we do in live that is meant to positively impact people’s lives. To answer, on behalf of a preacher, could it be by how many people repent? How many offerings you receive? The increment of participation at your church? The number of people who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour? It is, of course, all of these things and many other factors- this list in non-exhaustive!
Regarding our feedback on the previous week, Tirion spoke on all of our behalves. It was generally positive, BUT, we would all like to get more active! As mentioned, the majority of our afternoons are spent at home as there are no projects arranged for us to go to. So, it would be awesome if they got us involved in other projects (and other partners), so we maximise our final weeks here-*sad face as I type* I can’t believe I am talking about our ‘final weeks’ already.
So for this week, the plan set was for us to go to the numerous field sites with the numerous partners to help them collect success stories. It is important to collect success stories because the partners do so much work in the community, and if their impact is not shown/documented (by any means), then it may be seen that their efforts were not worthwhile- which, of course, they are.
Anyways, we made the A.E.E. staff meeting, and it was great to see Innocent back! We all welcomed him back and he gave us an update of his wife’s condition. Slowly but surely she is getting better. We must continue to pray for her and the whole family.
Phanuel, the A.E.E. branch coordinator, asked everyone how their weekend had been-which somehow led to a debate about how as a preacher, how do you measure your impact?? Now that is a question we all can consider- for whatever we do in live that is meant to positively impact people’s lives. To answer, on behalf of a preacher, could it be by how many people repent? How many offerings you receive? The increment of participation at your church? The number of people who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour? It is, of course, all of these things and many other factors- this list in non-exhaustive!
Regarding our feedback on the previous week, Tirion spoke on all of our behalves. It was generally positive, BUT, we would all like to get more active! As mentioned, the majority of our afternoons are spent at home as there are no projects arranged for us to go to. So, it would be awesome if they got us involved in other projects (and other partners), so we maximise our final weeks here-*sad face as I type* I can’t believe I am talking about our ‘final weeks’ already.
So for this week, the plan set was for us to go to the numerous field sites with the numerous partners to help them collect success stories. It is important to collect success stories because the partners do so much work in the community, and if their impact is not shown/documented (by any means), then it may be seen that their efforts were not worthwhile- which, of course, they are.
Tuesday started off quite messily. Instead of the 8am pick up planned, we were picked up at 9am and headed to meet Aimable at his field site to collect success stories with him. However, during our drive to the location, we were informed that Aimable was not there nor did he realise that we were to be meeting him this morning. Ermmmm okay…occasionally, there is miss communication or the sheer lack of it that takes place between who it needs to take place between and I guess this is just something that everyone needs to work on to improve relations between people.
So after this mishap we detoured to Rusororo sector, Gasagara cell, which is the location of the construction site that we have been to the two previous weeks. We were only there for a brief time as there was nothing really they wanted us to do- they had it under control. Nevertheless, it was great to be back there as the progress they had made in the space of a week was outstanding. They had the windows put in; the walls done and a roof on- all they were doing now was the flooring, and then it would be ready for a lick of paint! Thank God for A.E.E. for this building, that I know is going to bring so much joy and happiness to the community.
So as we were not needed there at the construction site, we ended up being whisked off to Gicaca district to work with Aimable and some women on a banana plantation (we first visited this plantation during our first week with A.E.E.). We were first taught by Aimable on how to spot the plants that need weeding and then how to weed them. We all tried it out, but it was harder than it looked (I nearly chopped off my foot in the process!) and there was no doubt that the women put us to shame. They did a great job (with our help) weeding and nurturing the banana trees.
It was also fascinating to hear about the trees- the bananas take about a year and a half to fully harvest and unfortunately, where their plantation is located, their bananas are prone to getting stolen-it was suggested that they invested in security. We worked right into lunchtime and by the end of it there was no doubt that we were all hungry…we just had to get through the hour long drive back home first…
So after this mishap we detoured to Rusororo sector, Gasagara cell, which is the location of the construction site that we have been to the two previous weeks. We were only there for a brief time as there was nothing really they wanted us to do- they had it under control. Nevertheless, it was great to be back there as the progress they had made in the space of a week was outstanding. They had the windows put in; the walls done and a roof on- all they were doing now was the flooring, and then it would be ready for a lick of paint! Thank God for A.E.E. for this building, that I know is going to bring so much joy and happiness to the community.
So as we were not needed there at the construction site, we ended up being whisked off to Gicaca district to work with Aimable and some women on a banana plantation (we first visited this plantation during our first week with A.E.E.). We were first taught by Aimable on how to spot the plants that need weeding and then how to weed them. We all tried it out, but it was harder than it looked (I nearly chopped off my foot in the process!) and there was no doubt that the women put us to shame. They did a great job (with our help) weeding and nurturing the banana trees.
It was also fascinating to hear about the trees- the bananas take about a year and a half to fully harvest and unfortunately, where their plantation is located, their bananas are prone to getting stolen-it was suggested that they invested in security. We worked right into lunchtime and by the end of it there was no doubt that we were all hungry…we just had to get through the hour long drive back home first…
Tuesday afternoon, Claudine, Tirion and I went to collect success stories in Eustache’s field. Eustache was unable to make it, so we had to do it on our own. It was successful as we gathered numerous stories on their lives; why they joined the cooperative, what it has done for them and their hopes for the future- questions along those lines. Where we meant them (in the field where they worked) seemed like the middle of nowhere, but, the drive up to their location was very beautiful. I tell ya, this is seriously the land of a thousand hills! It should really be called ‘the land of a thousand hills and as you drive up from one to the other, the view gets more and more breathtaking’! But I guess that’s just a little too wordy! Haha.
Wednesday was a great day! An awesome day in fact! We spent the morning at Muhumurize catch up school in Kanombe, where nothing went to what was planned on paper (which was to continue teaching the children about hygiene). And thank God it didn’t! As this Wednesday, Nancy and myself were finally able to implement ideas that we have had for a long time. For Nancy, it was the installation of a ‘tippy-tap’ outside the latrines. A ‘tippy-tap’ is a great mechanism for the children to use after they have used the toilets, to wash their hands in a safe and hygienic way. It was great to see the older boys involved in the building (which are the pictures above) of it as it is something that would last and hopefully be installed in their communities-by them!
Now my idea was more fun for the children. Every time we drove into the school, we were first faced with this blank brick wall. I came up with the idea that it would look better (and more welcoming) if we painted a hand print mural…and it does!
It is an awesome feeling when you pray for things to come to pass and they actually do! Even more so if you don’t think it is going to happen there and then, as today I thought that I was going to be in the class with the children continuing with the lesson plan we made last week. Thank God that the school had the resources (paint, water and lots of enthusiastic children) and I was able to do my project today! And thank God for Nina too! Nina is the daughter of the principle and a teacher at the school. Now she has not been at the school any other time we’ve been there, so I truly thank God that He made her come today, as this task would have been 10x harder without her!
Nina and I had rhythm going where we would take the children in twos and paint their hands, run with them to the wall (we couldn’t paint their hands outside-the paint would have dried in seconds!) and plaster their hands on the walls! It was awesome! We also wrote their names next to their hand prints, this is so that they can easily identify their hands when they return to the wall.
To end it we (Nina, Alexis and I) wrote ‘WE ARE MUHUMURIZE CATCH-UP SCHOOL’ in bold, so it and the hand prints can be seen as soon as you enter- instead of a plain brick wall.
I would just like to thank the teachers for giving me permission to do this mural and having the resources available for us to use. I’ll like to thank the children for taking part in the painting of the mural and giving yourself a physical presence that you will leave behind once you move on. And most importantly God for making it possible.
Enjoy the pictures! (below)
Now my idea was more fun for the children. Every time we drove into the school, we were first faced with this blank brick wall. I came up with the idea that it would look better (and more welcoming) if we painted a hand print mural…and it does!
It is an awesome feeling when you pray for things to come to pass and they actually do! Even more so if you don’t think it is going to happen there and then, as today I thought that I was going to be in the class with the children continuing with the lesson plan we made last week. Thank God that the school had the resources (paint, water and lots of enthusiastic children) and I was able to do my project today! And thank God for Nina too! Nina is the daughter of the principle and a teacher at the school. Now she has not been at the school any other time we’ve been there, so I truly thank God that He made her come today, as this task would have been 10x harder without her!
Nina and I had rhythm going where we would take the children in twos and paint their hands, run with them to the wall (we couldn’t paint their hands outside-the paint would have dried in seconds!) and plaster their hands on the walls! It was awesome! We also wrote their names next to their hand prints, this is so that they can easily identify their hands when they return to the wall.
To end it we (Nina, Alexis and I) wrote ‘WE ARE MUHUMURIZE CATCH-UP SCHOOL’ in bold, so it and the hand prints can be seen as soon as you enter- instead of a plain brick wall.
I would just like to thank the teachers for giving me permission to do this mural and having the resources available for us to use. I’ll like to thank the children for taking part in the painting of the mural and giving yourself a physical presence that you will leave behind once you move on. And most importantly God for making it possible.
Enjoy the pictures! (below)
We headed to Nyamirambo sector to collect some more success stories on Thursday morning with Alexis. Our first stop was at a lady’ called Consillia's house, who spoke about what she has done since receiving help from A.E.E. A.E.E. provided a cow and other funds for her and her family to survive on. Her success story was on how these things from A.E.E. improved the standard of their lives. Their stories are really a great thing to hear as all these people have come so far from where they were- which is just beyond amazing!
*side note* When we visit certain places its hard to comprehend that we are still in the city, as these places look so rural, or I guess, what is perceived to be 'rural'
Our second stop was also in Nyamirambo, but in a busy market area. Here we collected two more success stories detailing how help from A.E.E. has enabled them to survive.
*side note* When we visit certain places its hard to comprehend that we are still in the city, as these places look so rural, or I guess, what is perceived to be 'rural'
Our second stop was also in Nyamirambo, but in a busy market area. Here we collected two more success stories detailing how help from A.E.E. has enabled them to survive.
Unfortunately we were not needed at the A.E.E. offices on Friday morning. This was because there was an emergency staff meeting that was to be taking place (what was funny however was that our driver, Faustine, was not made aware of the meeting and came on time at 6.40am to pick us up for morning devotion). So this meant that we had Friday morning off.
For the final collection of success stories of the week, Denyse, Tirion and I went with Donatilla to Kicukiro district to meet with women who are a part of an internal savings and loans group. The money the group provided for each other allowed the women to purchase rabbits to nurture, and then to sell, as well as provide them with money for any other needs they may have. I had a lovely evening with the ladies, as we were there for a couple of hours, given beverages and made to feel very welcomed. We gathered in total six success stories, all unique to the one before. Once again, they were all fascinating to hear as these are women who have been through a lot, maintained their faith and thankfully made it through.
Now we just got to write these babies up…!!
For the final collection of success stories of the week, Denyse, Tirion and I went with Donatilla to Kicukiro district to meet with women who are a part of an internal savings and loans group. The money the group provided for each other allowed the women to purchase rabbits to nurture, and then to sell, as well as provide them with money for any other needs they may have. I had a lovely evening with the ladies, as we were there for a couple of hours, given beverages and made to feel very welcomed. We gathered in total six success stories, all unique to the one before. Once again, they were all fascinating to hear as these are women who have been through a lot, maintained their faith and thankfully made it through.
Now we just got to write these babies up…!!
Amahoro.
The chorus of ‘Amahoro’:
"Amahoro, ibyishimo, umunezero, bihora bibr mumutima wanjye.”
This is translated in English to: “Peace, joy, and happiness are always in my heart.”
I just wanted to share this song with you all. As I was introduced to it by the girls at the catch up school (check out ‘Week Three with A.E.E.’) and have loved it ever since (I know the chorus, the verses I’m getting to). It’s a great song by a very popular artist here in Rwanda called Gaby Kamazi. It’s about your love for God. Without a doubt it is played every day in the house now haha and I want you guys to enjoy listening to it as much I and the team do!
Here’s the link to video on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwmM2fvyEFo Enjoy!
"Amahoro, ibyishimo, umunezero, bihora bibr mumutima wanjye.”
This is translated in English to: “Peace, joy, and happiness are always in my heart.”
I just wanted to share this song with you all. As I was introduced to it by the girls at the catch up school (check out ‘Week Three with A.E.E.’) and have loved it ever since (I know the chorus, the verses I’m getting to). It’s a great song by a very popular artist here in Rwanda called Gaby Kamazi. It’s about your love for God. Without a doubt it is played every day in the house now haha and I want you guys to enjoy listening to it as much I and the team do!
Here’s the link to video on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwmM2fvyEFo Enjoy!
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
Meet Innocent.
Full name: Innocent Muvnyi.
Favourite things to do: Reading, praying, chatting and making new friends.
Favourite food: Chips and omelettes.
What did you study at university and why: Journalism and communication because I like to be the voice of voiceless people.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to volunteer because I want to improve my relationship with my colleagues and understand different cultures. I also want to make new friends and have an experience about how people from different backgrounds interact.
Favourite words in English and why: ‘Thanks’ and ‘please’ because I say thank you to someone who has done good for me, and please when I want a pardon.
Favourite things to do: Reading, praying, chatting and making new friends.
Favourite food: Chips and omelettes.
What did you study at university and why: Journalism and communication because I like to be the voice of voiceless people.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to volunteer because I want to improve my relationship with my colleagues and understand different cultures. I also want to make new friends and have an experience about how people from different backgrounds interact.
Favourite words in English and why: ‘Thanks’ and ‘please’ because I say thank you to someone who has done good for me, and please when I want a pardon.
Week Six Roundup!
Going into week seven, here are my reflections on week six:
I can’t believe that we have already reached the half way mark!!! Time really does not wait for anyone. Saying this, I am happy with what we have done thus far. Of course, there is more which could have been done/is to be done, but many things have been out of our control and I know that whatever we have done has already positively changed people’s lives.
Seeing Maddie is always nice. We don’t get to see her often and she is a cool cat haha. She visited us on Monday afternoon and stayed with us for about 4 hours. She was here just to see how we have been and most importantly to conduct 1:1s with us. 1:1 are just an informal (or you can say formal at times) catch up on how you are finding things. Now these are private chats so I won’t bore you with the details, but rest assured it was all generally positive :D It’s the way to be! Haha!
After Maddie left us, we headed to the Chez Lando for dinner at an Italian restaurant called Sole Luna, as I suggested it the night before. It was nice to get out the house for dinner on a weekday, as we had not done that before because something is usually prepared for us by the lovely Constance. Also it was nice to have a change of cuisine. I opted for a calzone- my favourite Italian dish I say- and it was very delicious. The restaurant had beautiful décor and luckily wasn’t too busy when we arrived, but it soon picked up for the weekly quiz night, in which if your team wins, you win your pizza! (We couldn’t stay as we wouldn’t have made our curfew). It was a nice treat and a great chilled atmosphere.
This week has been the first week where there has been heavy, thunderous rain every day. And thank God for it! The people of Rwanda need it right now for their harvests and such. I just pray that it no longer stops us from doing activities, but that is totally out of our hands.
It has been fascinating to see as the rain literally stops everything and can seem never ending. Furthermore, the rolling thunderous sounds makes it sound like the whole sky is going to come crashing down on Kigali!!
Getting clothes made! On Saturday after the wedding, a lovely woman called Josephine came round to our house to take our measurements and our designs for the clothes that we want her to make. She works at the local market and was recommended by another Tearfund volunteer (cheers Beth). Once again, I was very excited to show her what I want made and pick out the fabrics. I was slightly worried that there was a lack of purple in the materials (if you know me, you’ll know that I LOVE purple haha) and she said that she would come back on Monday with the other materials she did not bring as some of them had purple in them! Bless her; she was here for a good while taking all our measurements and with the help of Claudine, wrote down exactly how we want our things to be made. I am looking forward to the final results!
On Friday, as we had free time, I decided to get my hair done again! This time I opted for cornrows in a ponytail style. I did not anticipate it take longer, much longer, than the braids, but it did. Then again, they are thin and really long. I was sat on the floor for like 7 hours and I kept nodding off! I was woken up several times by the heavy thunderous rain that was taking place outside- the salon doors were open so we had a front row view! All in all I was happy with the outcome. Plaits like this is something I haven’t had in a long time, so like I said before, I like trying original styles out whilst here in Africa. Now with my hair like this, I have never looked more Rwandan! People think I am and then have the shock of their lives when I speak! It's more shocking than seeing a white person!
I had a lovely Sunday as I went to two morning services that both brought me joy. First stop was Denyse’s church, Global Missions Church. It was a lovely teaching on how to have compassion on people- this is a trait we all need to have. After this service, Tirion and I headed to Christian Life Assembly, which wasn’t too far away from GLM. I really enjoy the praise and worship at CLA as the songs are so touching and you can’t help but praise God when you sing them.
Saturday ended with all of us sitting down for Denyse’s devotion. It was a very important and well needed message- which is why I want to share it with you. She spoke about God’s Word in your life and the benefits of the Bible to every Christian. She also spoke about the ‘Word Hand’- do you know about it? If you take your fingers and thumbs, each of them represents a method of learning from the Bible. Each method is important and needed, especially the role of the thumb, which we will get on to.
The first method is ‘hearing’. Hearing the Word from Godly pastor and teachers provides us with insight into others’ studies of the scriptures as well as stimulating our own appetite for the Word (Romans 10:17).
Secondly, ‘reading’. Reading the Bible gives us an overall picture of God’s Word (Revelation 1:3).
Thirdly, ‘studying’ the scriptures leads us into personal discoveries of God’s truths (Acts 17:11).
Fourth is ‘memorising’. Memorising God’s Word enables us to use the sword of the Spirit to overcome the adversary, and to have it readily available for witnessing and/or helping others within a Word in season (Psalms 119:9-11).
Finally, as mentioned, the role of the thumb may be the most important as it stands for the method of ‘meditation’. It is to be used in conjunction with each of the other four methods. Meditation is also prayer and only when we meditate on God’s Word we will discover its transforming power at work in us. Meditation is simply thinking carefully on scriptures in order to understand them and apply it to your life (Psalms 1:2-3 and Joshua 1:8).
Thanks Denyse for such an important devotion.
Going into week seven, I pray for:
· Kigali to have more power. Electricity wise I’m talking. This week there has been countless amounts of power cuts and I pray that soon Kigali will have enough resources to keep the city alight.
· The people of the success stories. For the one we collected this week and the many we will collect next. May you continue to be blessed and prosper in order for you to provide for yourselves and your dependents.
· Claudine. She is taking many examinations during this period, meaning that she leaves us for a day to go to her university- I pray that she passes them all as she is always studying hard for them- she reminds me of me when I was in final year at university not too long ago haha! Go girl!
I can’t believe that we have already reached the half way mark!!! Time really does not wait for anyone. Saying this, I am happy with what we have done thus far. Of course, there is more which could have been done/is to be done, but many things have been out of our control and I know that whatever we have done has already positively changed people’s lives.
Seeing Maddie is always nice. We don’t get to see her often and she is a cool cat haha. She visited us on Monday afternoon and stayed with us for about 4 hours. She was here just to see how we have been and most importantly to conduct 1:1s with us. 1:1 are just an informal (or you can say formal at times) catch up on how you are finding things. Now these are private chats so I won’t bore you with the details, but rest assured it was all generally positive :D It’s the way to be! Haha!
After Maddie left us, we headed to the Chez Lando for dinner at an Italian restaurant called Sole Luna, as I suggested it the night before. It was nice to get out the house for dinner on a weekday, as we had not done that before because something is usually prepared for us by the lovely Constance. Also it was nice to have a change of cuisine. I opted for a calzone- my favourite Italian dish I say- and it was very delicious. The restaurant had beautiful décor and luckily wasn’t too busy when we arrived, but it soon picked up for the weekly quiz night, in which if your team wins, you win your pizza! (We couldn’t stay as we wouldn’t have made our curfew). It was a nice treat and a great chilled atmosphere.
This week has been the first week where there has been heavy, thunderous rain every day. And thank God for it! The people of Rwanda need it right now for their harvests and such. I just pray that it no longer stops us from doing activities, but that is totally out of our hands.
It has been fascinating to see as the rain literally stops everything and can seem never ending. Furthermore, the rolling thunderous sounds makes it sound like the whole sky is going to come crashing down on Kigali!!
Getting clothes made! On Saturday after the wedding, a lovely woman called Josephine came round to our house to take our measurements and our designs for the clothes that we want her to make. She works at the local market and was recommended by another Tearfund volunteer (cheers Beth). Once again, I was very excited to show her what I want made and pick out the fabrics. I was slightly worried that there was a lack of purple in the materials (if you know me, you’ll know that I LOVE purple haha) and she said that she would come back on Monday with the other materials she did not bring as some of them had purple in them! Bless her; she was here for a good while taking all our measurements and with the help of Claudine, wrote down exactly how we want our things to be made. I am looking forward to the final results!
On Friday, as we had free time, I decided to get my hair done again! This time I opted for cornrows in a ponytail style. I did not anticipate it take longer, much longer, than the braids, but it did. Then again, they are thin and really long. I was sat on the floor for like 7 hours and I kept nodding off! I was woken up several times by the heavy thunderous rain that was taking place outside- the salon doors were open so we had a front row view! All in all I was happy with the outcome. Plaits like this is something I haven’t had in a long time, so like I said before, I like trying original styles out whilst here in Africa. Now with my hair like this, I have never looked more Rwandan! People think I am and then have the shock of their lives when I speak! It's more shocking than seeing a white person!
I had a lovely Sunday as I went to two morning services that both brought me joy. First stop was Denyse’s church, Global Missions Church. It was a lovely teaching on how to have compassion on people- this is a trait we all need to have. After this service, Tirion and I headed to Christian Life Assembly, which wasn’t too far away from GLM. I really enjoy the praise and worship at CLA as the songs are so touching and you can’t help but praise God when you sing them.
Saturday ended with all of us sitting down for Denyse’s devotion. It was a very important and well needed message- which is why I want to share it with you. She spoke about God’s Word in your life and the benefits of the Bible to every Christian. She also spoke about the ‘Word Hand’- do you know about it? If you take your fingers and thumbs, each of them represents a method of learning from the Bible. Each method is important and needed, especially the role of the thumb, which we will get on to.
The first method is ‘hearing’. Hearing the Word from Godly pastor and teachers provides us with insight into others’ studies of the scriptures as well as stimulating our own appetite for the Word (Romans 10:17).
Secondly, ‘reading’. Reading the Bible gives us an overall picture of God’s Word (Revelation 1:3).
Thirdly, ‘studying’ the scriptures leads us into personal discoveries of God’s truths (Acts 17:11).
Fourth is ‘memorising’. Memorising God’s Word enables us to use the sword of the Spirit to overcome the adversary, and to have it readily available for witnessing and/or helping others within a Word in season (Psalms 119:9-11).
Finally, as mentioned, the role of the thumb may be the most important as it stands for the method of ‘meditation’. It is to be used in conjunction with each of the other four methods. Meditation is also prayer and only when we meditate on God’s Word we will discover its transforming power at work in us. Meditation is simply thinking carefully on scriptures in order to understand them and apply it to your life (Psalms 1:2-3 and Joshua 1:8).
Thanks Denyse for such an important devotion.
Going into week seven, I pray for:
· Kigali to have more power. Electricity wise I’m talking. This week there has been countless amounts of power cuts and I pray that soon Kigali will have enough resources to keep the city alight.
· The people of the success stories. For the one we collected this week and the many we will collect next. May you continue to be blessed and prosper in order for you to provide for yourselves and your dependents.
· Claudine. She is taking many examinations during this period, meaning that she leaves us for a day to go to her university- I pray that she passes them all as she is always studying hard for them- she reminds me of me when I was in final year at university not too long ago haha! Go girl!
And sitting down, He called the twelve and said to them, "If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all."-Mark 9:35
Chips. Mr. Chips.
Maybe I was too excited to finally find Mr. Chips on Sunday afternoon after church, but that I was! I was excited because we had been speaking about this place since about week two, so it was great to finally put a face to the name (so to speak) and experience what it has to offer. It took me a while to decide as there were so many choices which were all reasonably priced. In the end, we both decided to get chicken leg and chips- and yummy it was! Haha!
Hopefully we get to go back there as it’s a great hangout spot and I would like to try something else off the menu.
Hopefully we get to go back there as it’s a great hangout spot and I would like to try something else off the menu.
Keeping it traditional.
On Saturday, Anna, Tirion and myself attended a traditional Rwandan wedding. I’m so glad that we finally got the chance to attend one as we only have a few Saturdays left (they always seem to happen only on Saturdays) and we’ve been told of many that is to take place, but...after we leave! So thank the good Lord that Anna knows someone in the UK whose cousin was to be getting married whilst we were out here! Haha!
The ceremony was absolutely beautiful. Though it was all in Kinyrwanda that did not stop us from having an understanding of what was happening, additionally, we got help from Amandine, Anna’s friend’s cousin and she told us step by step what was happening. It started off with the families- who sat opposite each other-take it in turns to air out the problems they had with the other family. I suppose this was done to ensure that the couple entered into the marriage with no baggage and disagreements, as after the confrontation of the families, the fathers hugged and exchanged gifts which included alcoholic drinks.
The ceremony was absolutely beautiful. Though it was all in Kinyrwanda that did not stop us from having an understanding of what was happening, additionally, we got help from Amandine, Anna’s friend’s cousin and she told us step by step what was happening. It started off with the families- who sat opposite each other-take it in turns to air out the problems they had with the other family. I suppose this was done to ensure that the couple entered into the marriage with no baggage and disagreements, as after the confrontation of the families, the fathers hugged and exchanged gifts which included alcoholic drinks.
During their discussions, they were also discussing how many cows would suffice for the bride. Yes, they were discussing cows and as they left the beautiful gardens, I had a feeling that they were going to bring them in for the guest to see. I was partly right as yes they were going to check on the cows (I was told), but unfortunately they did not bring them in for us to see. Now that would have been awesome!
The ceremony continued with the introduction of the handsome groom and his men (with a short talk with the host of the ceremony-the cool dude in the red pants) and then (with a fanfare entrance) the introduction of the beautiful bride and her bridesmaids. The colour theme for the wedding was lovely as it made the setting look beautiful and it matched the bright weather (regarding the weather, thank God the rain did not make an appearance!).
What amused us all the most was the song and drama performance put on by two men dressed up as cows. Clearly they were symbolising the cows and it was nice to see a show how the exchange of gifts sealed the marriage.
The ceremony concluded with everyone taking a very delicious and filling lunch.
The ceremony continued with the introduction of the handsome groom and his men (with a short talk with the host of the ceremony-the cool dude in the red pants) and then (with a fanfare entrance) the introduction of the beautiful bride and her bridesmaids. The colour theme for the wedding was lovely as it made the setting look beautiful and it matched the bright weather (regarding the weather, thank God the rain did not make an appearance!).
What amused us all the most was the song and drama performance put on by two men dressed up as cows. Clearly they were symbolising the cows and it was nice to see a show how the exchange of gifts sealed the marriage.
The ceremony concluded with everyone taking a very delicious and filling lunch.
I am glad that I have finally attended a traditional Rwandan wedding and been able to experience something that is unique to Rwanda. If you come here, you must go to at least one!
Week Five with A.E.E.
Monday began with devotion, with a focus on Psalms 15- which emphasised that we must be Godly here on earth, in order to secure our place in His Sanctuary.
After devotion was the weekly staff meeting and it was awesome to see Phanuel back and recovering from his recent bout of illness. It is so sad seeing all these staff members and/or their loved ones fall ill one after the other. We are praying for their swift recovery.
As we had reached the halfway point in our placement, we were asked by Phanuel about how we felt our time with A.E.E. has been so far- what has gone well, what still needs work and everything in between. I actually can’t believe that we have already reached and gone passed the half way stage! Man, time really does fly. I want it to slow down. I really do. I remember people saying to me before I left for Rwanda that 10 weeks was such a long time. But now I see that is totally not true- 10 weeks is such a short time in the scheme of what we are doing (but I guess it can be seen as a substantial amount of time to be away from home, especially for the young ones!) It is going by too fasr and would be grateful if it did slow down. I guess all I can do (which I have been doing) is savour every moment and maximise myself to the fullest.
The plan for this week (as always) was subject to change and we left with no definite set plan for the week ahead. No worries though, as whatever is meant to happen will come to pass. But what was included in the plan for the week was for us go out with the staff to their respective fields and aid them in collecting success stories. The staff of A.E.E. have to collect stories, as November is their last month of activity for the year, meaning that it is also used to begin the evaluation process of the year that has gone. This week we were scheduled to go with Rosa and Aimable to their fields and collect success stories.
After devotion was the weekly staff meeting and it was awesome to see Phanuel back and recovering from his recent bout of illness. It is so sad seeing all these staff members and/or their loved ones fall ill one after the other. We are praying for their swift recovery.
As we had reached the halfway point in our placement, we were asked by Phanuel about how we felt our time with A.E.E. has been so far- what has gone well, what still needs work and everything in between. I actually can’t believe that we have already reached and gone passed the half way stage! Man, time really does fly. I want it to slow down. I really do. I remember people saying to me before I left for Rwanda that 10 weeks was such a long time. But now I see that is totally not true- 10 weeks is such a short time in the scheme of what we are doing (but I guess it can be seen as a substantial amount of time to be away from home, especially for the young ones!) It is going by too fasr and would be grateful if it did slow down. I guess all I can do (which I have been doing) is savour every moment and maximise myself to the fullest.
The plan for this week (as always) was subject to change and we left with no definite set plan for the week ahead. No worries though, as whatever is meant to happen will come to pass. But what was included in the plan for the week was for us go out with the staff to their respective fields and aid them in collecting success stories. The staff of A.E.E. have to collect stories, as November is their last month of activity for the year, meaning that it is also used to begin the evaluation process of the year that has gone. This week we were scheduled to go with Rosa and Aimable to their fields and collect success stories.
The majority of Tuesday was spent in the house planning for the lessons that would be taking place on Wednesday at the catch up school. (We should see it as a blessing that we did not have a team activity (outdoors) planned for the day as it was raining so so SO heavily, that it most likely would have got cancelled). For both level 1 (P1 and P2) and level 2 (P3 and P4), we decided to focus on hygiene, and in particular, water sanitation. Thus far, on all our visits to the catch up school, I have taught level 2 with Tirion and Denyse, and whilst planning, we decided to incorporate learning with drama. As they enjoyed the drama activities so much last week, I believe it would be the best way to keep them engaged and interested in the subject, instead of them just being immobile and us just shouting facts at the them. When it came to the end of our planning, I was happy with what we got!
Let’s just see what we get through with the kids- as of course, everything is subject to children actually being there! It’s happened before… so we’ll just have to see!
Anna and I also spent some time this afternoon writing an email to prospective businesses that would hopefully agree to sell some of the products the women make in the self help group. I know that it may sound far-fetched, but we want to do all we can whilst we have the time to encourage local businesses to notice the vulnerable in their area and do what they can to help them. It would be AWESOME if we are to get at least one response to the email. Pray we us that they do!
Let’s just see what we get through with the kids- as of course, everything is subject to children actually being there! It’s happened before… so we’ll just have to see!
Anna and I also spent some time this afternoon writing an email to prospective businesses that would hopefully agree to sell some of the products the women make in the self help group. I know that it may sound far-fetched, but we want to do all we can whilst we have the time to encourage local businesses to notice the vulnerable in their area and do what they can to help them. It would be AWESOME if we are to get at least one response to the email. Pray we us that they do!
In the afternoon, Claudine and I got picked up and driven to a vegetable and charcaol selling co-operative in Kimihurura with Rosa to collect a success story on her behalf. It was fun for Claudine and I to play journalist for a while and use the skills we learnt at our recent communication training. We interviewed a woman called Chantal, who is the vice-president of the co-operative. It was interesting getting to know about her-from her family; challenges she has faced as VP; how she has overcome them and what her hopes and dreams are for the future. I think that success stories are a great way of evaluating the work A.E.E. has done in the community as it allows them to see what worked, what needs to be changed and what needs improvement.
Wednesday was spent at Kanombe. And thank God, children were there! Not as many as there has previously been but enough to have two level of classes to teach. The day started with their assembly, and of course there was lots of songs and dancing happening. It is always a great sight to see and take part in as everyone gets involved with the singing and dancing (well, not always everyone, as this time I saw the ‘cool’ boys kicking at the back of the classroom whilst others were dancing). There was also a short reading from the Bible which automatically got all the children’s’ attention. It is clear that this is something that they all enjoy- hearing God’s Word.
After a recap of the songs they were taught last week, Claudine and myself led the children in learning a new song. ‘He’s got the whole world in His hands’ (remember that one?!) was the song of choice this week. That was lots of fun and very successful as it was clear that the children really enjoy learning new songs, especially when it is accompanied with actions!
After a recap of the songs they were taught last week, Claudine and myself led the children in learning a new song. ‘He’s got the whole world in His hands’ (remember that one?!) was the song of choice this week. That was lots of fun and very successful as it was clear that the children really enjoy learning new songs, especially when it is accompanied with actions!
It was just Denyse and I taking the class today and I have to say- we did a great job! Haha, I know I’m patting my (and Denyse’s) own back here, but we did! Though we only got through one of the many parts of the lesson that we planned, regardless, it went swimmingly. Thank God. As mentioned, we did the lesson on water sanitation and it took the whole session to get through 10 statements (in which we planned to use as an introduction to the session!) and for them all to decided whether the statements were true or false. This was very interesting as we got them all to consider each statement very carefully and discuss them as a class, and it also showed their competitive sides when they were discovering the right answers. Some of the students’ English was great, but thank God for Denyse as it was very easy for them to quickly slip into Kinyarwanda and/or something needed to be said in Kinyarwanda so they could understand it better.
I thoroughly enjoyed the session as both parties definitely got something out of it. Like my pens for example! I gave out 22 pens at the start of class and I got 13 back! Haha, I guess that was to be expected and I’m lucky to get any back (plus most of them were the ones with multiple coloured parts), but it’s no worries as they were for the children.
As originally planned, we were going to meet with the women at the self help group in Kacyiru, but unfortunately, we were unable to meet the women again as the building they meet in, was being used by the government to give out mosquito nets.
I thoroughly enjoyed the session as both parties definitely got something out of it. Like my pens for example! I gave out 22 pens at the start of class and I got 13 back! Haha, I guess that was to be expected and I’m lucky to get any back (plus most of them were the ones with multiple coloured parts), but it’s no worries as they were for the children.
As originally planned, we were going to meet with the women at the self help group in Kacyiru, but unfortunately, we were unable to meet the women again as the building they meet in, was being used by the government to give out mosquito nets.
Thursday was meant to be spent collecting success stories with Aimable in his fields, but as the roads were unsafe to drive on due to the recent rain, plans were changed and it was decided that we would go to the construction site in Rusororo sector, Gasagara cell (where we went last week) and help them out in any which way we can. It was nice to go back and see the progress that had been made. We busied ourselves with various activities which included cement mixing; carrying bricks and mainly smoothing out the walls with cement mixture. They were happy to see us again and I was happy to be back, though we were on there for a brief time.
Whilst I was there, I got down to it and began cementing the walls. It looks easy but it was a little challenging as occasionally the cement did not to the way you wanted it to go- I guess it’s all about the technique, which I eventually got with the help of my teacher. We left during lunchtime and I am looking forward to going back (I hope we get the chance to) all see the progression that has been made, or better yet, see it all complete.
Whilst I was there, I got down to it and began cementing the walls. It looks easy but it was a little challenging as occasionally the cement did not to the way you wanted it to go- I guess it’s all about the technique, which I eventually got with the help of my teacher. We left during lunchtime and I am looking forward to going back (I hope we get the chance to) all see the progression that has been made, or better yet, see it all complete.
Initially planned for the following Friday (and definitely not this Friday) was for us to lead the A.E.E. morning devotion! So we got told Thursday night that they want us to host it this week. It was great that they trusted us to conduct devotion as good as they do! Thank God it was successful as we spent the previous night discussing what we wanted to say for a considerable amount of time.
I took the role of opening the devotion with a prayer referencing Ezekiel 1, where God’s economy is likened to a ‘great wheel’. For the discussion, we focused on Matthew 5:38-48 and posed questions about the verses which included ‘do you think that what Jesus is saying makes life easier or harder’ and ‘what do you think Jesus means by ‘be perfect’ (verse 48), is this possible?’ The questions thankfully generated a healthy discussion- as no one likes a silent room! These are questions you can consider when studying Matthew.
Devotion was followed by our weekly capacity building lessons. Again, like last week, we combined the classes for the English lesson. As we go into depth about things, to ensure that they fully understand what they are being taught, the English lesson took up the whole morning. Being led by Anna and Nancy, the students were once again being put through their paces about what they were previously taught and what they were learning.
It is always great to see how far they come each week, as they are determined to use us as much as possible so they can improve their English.
I took the role of opening the devotion with a prayer referencing Ezekiel 1, where God’s economy is likened to a ‘great wheel’. For the discussion, we focused on Matthew 5:38-48 and posed questions about the verses which included ‘do you think that what Jesus is saying makes life easier or harder’ and ‘what do you think Jesus means by ‘be perfect’ (verse 48), is this possible?’ The questions thankfully generated a healthy discussion- as no one likes a silent room! These are questions you can consider when studying Matthew.
Devotion was followed by our weekly capacity building lessons. Again, like last week, we combined the classes for the English lesson. As we go into depth about things, to ensure that they fully understand what they are being taught, the English lesson took up the whole morning. Being led by Anna and Nancy, the students were once again being put through their paces about what they were previously taught and what they were learning.
It is always great to see how far they come each week, as they are determined to use us as much as possible so they can improve their English.
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
Meet Rachel.
Full name: Rachel Mugwaneza.
Favourite things to do: Praying, having fun, watching movies, playing football and basketball, and being with my mummy and having discussions about life with her.
Favourite food: Chips.
What did you study at university and why: I was studying midwifery because I want to save babies and to also save the women when they are having their babies, or during their pregnancy. I want to teach women more about antenatal care when they are pregnant.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to join Tearfund because I want to develop my country and make contributions in my country, by way of being a volunteer. I want to know how to stay with people who have different backgrounds and cultures, and to also make new friends from different countries.
Favourite words in English and why: God-because God saved me in the 1994 genocide. Also ‘please’ and ‘thank you’- because when I do bad things to people, I must say sorry. And when people do good things to me, I like to say thank you.
Favourite things to do: Praying, having fun, watching movies, playing football and basketball, and being with my mummy and having discussions about life with her.
Favourite food: Chips.
What did you study at university and why: I was studying midwifery because I want to save babies and to also save the women when they are having their babies, or during their pregnancy. I want to teach women more about antenatal care when they are pregnant.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to join Tearfund because I want to develop my country and make contributions in my country, by way of being a volunteer. I want to know how to stay with people who have different backgrounds and cultures, and to also make new friends from different countries.
Favourite words in English and why: God-because God saved me in the 1994 genocide. Also ‘please’ and ‘thank you’- because when I do bad things to people, I must say sorry. And when people do good things to me, I like to say thank you.
Week Five Roundup!
Going into week six, here are my reflections on week five:
As a team, we usually tend to spend the weekday afternoons and evenings in the house, as most of the time our projects are usually done by midday (or do not begin until the afternoon), so it was nice to go into town on Monday with Tirion, as we would just normally wait until the weekend to do so. It is always an adventure going into town. From catching the right bus (well first to actually getting on- now that is a mission itself!) to refusing to buy shoes and/or a flash drive from a street vendors who follows you, the streets in town are always full of life and it’s a great thing to see. Admittedly, there is not much for us to busy ourselves with in town on your any given day, so when we do head into town it’s a nice change from the areas we tend to go during the week.
Tuesday was my 'family time'. 'Family time' is when each of us (on our allocated weeks- I got week five, obviously) decides on an event/activity in which the whole group must attend/do. I found out online about a film night that takes place at the Goethe Institute in Kiyovu. The film was called ‘Blood in the Mobile’ a film about the minerals used in the production of mobile phones, and that the finances from them help fund the militia groups in the Congo. It very was hard hitting and left us all with more questions than answers unfortunately. If you can, I seriously recommend you watch it.
I am glad that my family time was successful as we all made it out of the house on a weeknight and found the film to be insightful and definitely a worthwhile watch.
Once again, I enjoyed attending cell on Wednesday. This time, Tirion and I were joined by Anna and the topic was about being unstoppable when people/things try to stop you from progressing. I really do believe attending a cell group is a great idea, as it allows you to continue to fellowship on a smaller scale but with the same amount of enthusiasm and passion for what you are hearing. Church should not just be left for the weekends- have it whenever and wherever you can!
On Thursday afternoon we briefly visited a well known craft market cooperative in town. It was really nice, but totally overpriced. Being there, and places similar (like in Chinese markets for example) you’ve got to know how to haggle with the vendors, otherwise you’ll be allowing yourself to be taken for a ride! Haha. I have to say that I’m not too bad at it and I managed to get a beautiful necklace knocked down by 90% (yup! 90%!). So I say, know the art of haggling! Haha.
Nearby our home is a really beautiful hotel called the Luxury Hotel. They have a really nice pool (as well as free wi-fi in which I go there just to use occasionally) and on Thursday I decided to finally take a swim. I was in the pool for a quite a while as it was really nice and I was having too much fun with some cute kids by playing games with them and seeing how many languages we knew between ourselves. After such a long hard manual labour day, it was just what I needed!
Going into week six, I pray for:
· Unending strength. We all need it. I pray that we continue to stay strong physically, mentally and spiritually as we continue on this journey of fulfilling God’s Will here in Kigali.
· The city of Kimironko. Kimironko (pronounced Chimmy-ron-ho) you have been great so far- thank you. I pray for all the people I see living here (there’s a few faces that I have got to know and say hi to by name) and I hope that your businesses continue on and prosper so that you are able to provide for yourselves and your dependents.
· My family back home. I love and miss you all and it has been great catching up with you whenever we get the chance. I pray all is blessed and you are all always in my prayers.
As a team, we usually tend to spend the weekday afternoons and evenings in the house, as most of the time our projects are usually done by midday (or do not begin until the afternoon), so it was nice to go into town on Monday with Tirion, as we would just normally wait until the weekend to do so. It is always an adventure going into town. From catching the right bus (well first to actually getting on- now that is a mission itself!) to refusing to buy shoes and/or a flash drive from a street vendors who follows you, the streets in town are always full of life and it’s a great thing to see. Admittedly, there is not much for us to busy ourselves with in town on your any given day, so when we do head into town it’s a nice change from the areas we tend to go during the week.
Tuesday was my 'family time'. 'Family time' is when each of us (on our allocated weeks- I got week five, obviously) decides on an event/activity in which the whole group must attend/do. I found out online about a film night that takes place at the Goethe Institute in Kiyovu. The film was called ‘Blood in the Mobile’ a film about the minerals used in the production of mobile phones, and that the finances from them help fund the militia groups in the Congo. It very was hard hitting and left us all with more questions than answers unfortunately. If you can, I seriously recommend you watch it.
I am glad that my family time was successful as we all made it out of the house on a weeknight and found the film to be insightful and definitely a worthwhile watch.
Once again, I enjoyed attending cell on Wednesday. This time, Tirion and I were joined by Anna and the topic was about being unstoppable when people/things try to stop you from progressing. I really do believe attending a cell group is a great idea, as it allows you to continue to fellowship on a smaller scale but with the same amount of enthusiasm and passion for what you are hearing. Church should not just be left for the weekends- have it whenever and wherever you can!
On Thursday afternoon we briefly visited a well known craft market cooperative in town. It was really nice, but totally overpriced. Being there, and places similar (like in Chinese markets for example) you’ve got to know how to haggle with the vendors, otherwise you’ll be allowing yourself to be taken for a ride! Haha. I have to say that I’m not too bad at it and I managed to get a beautiful necklace knocked down by 90% (yup! 90%!). So I say, know the art of haggling! Haha.
Nearby our home is a really beautiful hotel called the Luxury Hotel. They have a really nice pool (as well as free wi-fi in which I go there just to use occasionally) and on Thursday I decided to finally take a swim. I was in the pool for a quite a while as it was really nice and I was having too much fun with some cute kids by playing games with them and seeing how many languages we knew between ourselves. After such a long hard manual labour day, it was just what I needed!
Going into week six, I pray for:
· Unending strength. We all need it. I pray that we continue to stay strong physically, mentally and spiritually as we continue on this journey of fulfilling God’s Will here in Kigali.
· The city of Kimironko. Kimironko (pronounced Chimmy-ron-ho) you have been great so far- thank you. I pray for all the people I see living here (there’s a few faces that I have got to know and say hi to by name) and I hope that your businesses continue on and prosper so that you are able to provide for yourselves and your dependents.
· My family back home. I love and miss you all and it has been great catching up with you whenever we get the chance. I pray all is blessed and you are all always in my prayers.
Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.- Luke 6:38.
Week Four with A.E.E.
The Monday A.E.E. staff meeting was conducted by the lovely Donatilla, a social worker. This was because Phanuel, the branch co-ordinator and the person who usually chairs the meetings, was unfortunately ill. It is really sad seeing all these A.E.E. staff and their loved ones get sick one after the other. I do pray for their swift recovery so that they can continue doing what they love- which is helping others. Also during the meeting, we received some quite shocking (well, initially quite shocking) news: we will no longer be having lunch with the staff on Mondays and Fridays. A little upsetting, but totally understandable. The purpose was for us to have social interaction with the staff to get to know them better- and I guess that has been done, (I mean, I feel like I have known some of these folks for much longer than four weeks!) so expenses on feeding us is no longer required. Instead, we will return home for lunch, which we do for the other days of the week.
Our Tuesday activities unfortunately got cancelled due to the heavy rain and sand storms that were happening. We were meant to go and provide our services to a co-operative in Kimihurura, but it was not possible to go to the location, as when it rains in Kigali, nothing functions! The rain was crazy- not like anything I have seen before here. It was great to see though, and like crazy people, Nancy, Anna and myself ran out into it and even went down to the shops (I wanted an amandazi, but the shop was closed! Haha), it was funny and the looks on many peoples’ faces were priceless!
On Wednesday we spent the morning at the catch up school in Kanombe. I really enjoyed the time with had the children as it was spent teaching them a new song (Jesus’ Love is very Wonderful); playing games (which included a game called ‘on the beach, on the sea’ which I particularly enjoyed) and (what I loved the most) doing drama exercises with the older children in the classroom. I got the children to do role plays which related to situations which they may have faced. I am passionate about drama and I believe that it is a great way to get important messages across. It also enables a child to increase their confidence and find various ways to express themselves. I am so proud of what they produced as it brought a smile to my face and most importantly theirs. They cannot wait for us to return so we could do similar things with them again.
Wednesday afternoon was spent at the women’s self help group, which is called Muhumurize, in Kacyiru. For the first half of the session, we watched Rosa dispense medicine to those who needed it. It was great to see her doing this again- she is such a lovely, kind spirited women and it is really nice to see her be such a blessing to these women.
Once that was finished, we then moved on to teach them English. We starting off with a recap on the conversational English they began learning last week, and then we moved them onto commercial English, as the phrases were things that would help them sell their products to a wider audience. Like I’ve said a many a times, the progress these women are making is very admirable and it is such a wonderful thing to see.
Once that was finished, we then moved on to teach them English. We starting off with a recap on the conversational English they began learning last week, and then we moved them onto commercial English, as the phrases were things that would help them sell their products to a wider audience. Like I’ve said a many a times, the progress these women are making is very admirable and it is such a wonderful thing to see.
On Thursday, we did something we have not done before- we helped with the building of a centre that will be used as a kindergarten school and a place for adults to learn how to read and write, first in Kinyarwanda and then, with time, in English. Located in the Rusororo sector, Gasagara cell it took us about an hour to get there. It is always great to see the rural areas of the city, as though I am beyond grateful that I was allocated Kigali, I really do appreciate seeing the rural sides of it and not high rise (or somewhat high rise) buildings we see most of the time. We worked with Aimable, a social worker for A.E.E. (and who also co-ordinates this project site) and we were there until lunchtime doing manual labour- I don’t think we have worked that physically hard before on the placement, nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed it! I had fun getting down with the guys by mixing the cement, moving bricks and even laying bricks! Yup! I got up there on the tree bark they use as scaffolding and laid some bricks! I’m pretty proud of myself and the others that did it. It was slightly scary considering how unstable it was, but being up there with someone called Laughter (yup! That is his name) made it a great and worthwhile experience. I am glad that we were about to be a part of building the centre and look forward to seeing the final result- which will be soon, no doubt, these men (and women) are machines!
Friday was the first day of Novemeber! Ahhhh- we have been here for a month already! Crazy! Where has the time gone?! (Just a quick request: time, please slow down!) The day started with morning devotion with the A.E.E. staff, where in groups we prayed for donors of A.E.E., the A.E.E. leaders, the church and the country of Rwanda. This is a regular segment for the A.E.E. devotion (to pray for others) and it is awesome to see that they appreciate and our thankful to all those that help them.
Back in the offices, we conducted English and ICT sessions and thankfully, they both went great. Initially, it was hard to gather the troops together as they are always up to something, which is totally understandable- they have a job to do! We decided to combine the classes for the English lesson, where it was clear that the level that I teach needed to be refreshed on the basics that level 1 are being taught. Furthermore, it was great to see what level 1 had been getting up to and the progress they had been making. After a short break, we moved onto the ICT lesson which I prepared and led. It was on powerpoint- the purpose of it and how to use its many functions. Unfortunately, we did not get through ALL the functions of powerpoint, but we managed to get through my lesson plan, which had them making a presentation, in which all the slides differently and contained different information, then they presented it to the group. I showed them mine as an example and from then, it was clear that they were keen on getting on with it and discovering the multiple functions powerpoint has.
I’m really proud of them as they have undoubtedly improved in both English and ICT and it is clear that we are making an impact- though it may not be a physical one here, we are still making one nonetheless, which we pray will last.
Back in the offices, we conducted English and ICT sessions and thankfully, they both went great. Initially, it was hard to gather the troops together as they are always up to something, which is totally understandable- they have a job to do! We decided to combine the classes for the English lesson, where it was clear that the level that I teach needed to be refreshed on the basics that level 1 are being taught. Furthermore, it was great to see what level 1 had been getting up to and the progress they had been making. After a short break, we moved onto the ICT lesson which I prepared and led. It was on powerpoint- the purpose of it and how to use its many functions. Unfortunately, we did not get through ALL the functions of powerpoint, but we managed to get through my lesson plan, which had them making a presentation, in which all the slides differently and contained different information, then they presented it to the group. I showed them mine as an example and from then, it was clear that they were keen on getting on with it and discovering the multiple functions powerpoint has.
I’m really proud of them as they have undoubtedly improved in both English and ICT and it is clear that we are making an impact- though it may not be a physical one here, we are still making one nonetheless, which we pray will last.
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
Meet Innocent.
Full name: Innocent Muhire.
Favourite thing to do: Making friends.
Favourite food: Chips.
What did you study at university and why: Computer science because I like technology and it is my passion.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I like to see communities being improved and it is a field that can allow me to use my skills and knowledge.
Favourite word in English and why: Unity- because when I see people working together, it means their goals will be reached quickly, and they all will be better off and successful.
Favourite thing to do: Making friends.
Favourite food: Chips.
What did you study at university and why: Computer science because I like technology and it is my passion.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I like to see communities being improved and it is a field that can allow me to use my skills and knowledge.
Favourite word in English and why: Unity- because when I see people working together, it means their goals will be reached quickly, and they all will be better off and successful.
Week Four Roundup!
Going into week five, here are my reflections on week four:
It was a nice to spend a day with Joan, Maddie, Amanda and Lucy. They are all very lovely, caring and welcoming and want us all to have the best experience possible. I thought it was also great that we were able to give them an insight (though, from reading my previous post, what they saw does not normally happen) into how a day working on projects is for us, and for us to give them our opinions on what we think about the way Tearfund operates. What we said, (they said) they will take on board, which will result in future teams having a rich, if not richer experience.
This weekend was pretty chilled-I guess it’s nice to have one of them once in a while (hopefully not too many, I like to be out and about! Haha!).
Though this week was not that ‘proactive’ (very unfortunately, but hey, what can you do?!) I must say that I appreciated the lie in and rest I got on Saturday morning/afternoon. I also took that time to take my braids out. Now, I love my hair like that, I really do, but honestly, it is hard to maintain. It got so messy and it was not pretty, so with the help of Denyse and Claudine we took them jumbo braids out in no time! (Thanks ladies).
*random thought* I reckon I’m going to let my hair ‘breathe’ for a while before I try another ‘African’ style!
On Saturday evening, Anna, Tirion and myself went for dinner at ‘Simba’ café. Located in central Kigali, Simba is a very popular restaurant for both Rwandans and internationals. It is also attached to a supermarket (called Simba Supermarket) which I guess kills two birds with one stone! I enjoyed our evening out as the atmosphere was warm and it was a very lively night with the football being played and all. I ordered chicken and chips (with a cocktail sauce which just tasted like orange juice-weird)! Yummy (well, bar the cocktail sauce)! The chicken especially. Now, at home we seldom have meat, so it was so nice to have that chicken-to savour it and appreciate it! (Haha, okay I’m just rambling here).
On Sunday we went to Faustine’s (our driver) church located in Remera, which is not too far from our house. The service was in Kinyarwanda, so admittedly, it was hard to keep track, especially as it lasted just over 3 hours. Additionally, the church was small, overcrowded and we were sat on benches which made us all stiff (actually, I thought that sitting on benches was going to be the case for every church we went, because we got advised to bring a cushion! Haha- I guess that may just be for the rural areas) but thank God we survived it! I’m glad though that we got the chance to attend that church and such a service because it was beautifully decorated and was a service that was different to what we have been to thus far.
Going into week five, I pray for:
· Things to actually come to pass. We plan and plan and plan some more, it would be nice for most of them to actually happen. We want to enrich all the lives we come into contact with, and however that is to be done- let it be done Lord.
· A healthy team and partners. We all may get ill from time to time, but I pray that if it can be avoided, it is and when we do become ill, You give us the strength to speedily get through it and recover to continue to do Your Will.
· The other Rwanda teams and the partners they are working with. Seeing partners from the others teams on Thursday was really nice, as it reminded me that there are many of us out here doing the work of the Lord (and I know that there will be many more to come). May You continue to bless our all so that we can keep improving the people of Rwanda’s lives for the better.
It was a nice to spend a day with Joan, Maddie, Amanda and Lucy. They are all very lovely, caring and welcoming and want us all to have the best experience possible. I thought it was also great that we were able to give them an insight (though, from reading my previous post, what they saw does not normally happen) into how a day working on projects is for us, and for us to give them our opinions on what we think about the way Tearfund operates. What we said, (they said) they will take on board, which will result in future teams having a rich, if not richer experience.
This weekend was pretty chilled-I guess it’s nice to have one of them once in a while (hopefully not too many, I like to be out and about! Haha!).
Though this week was not that ‘proactive’ (very unfortunately, but hey, what can you do?!) I must say that I appreciated the lie in and rest I got on Saturday morning/afternoon. I also took that time to take my braids out. Now, I love my hair like that, I really do, but honestly, it is hard to maintain. It got so messy and it was not pretty, so with the help of Denyse and Claudine we took them jumbo braids out in no time! (Thanks ladies).
*random thought* I reckon I’m going to let my hair ‘breathe’ for a while before I try another ‘African’ style!
On Saturday evening, Anna, Tirion and myself went for dinner at ‘Simba’ café. Located in central Kigali, Simba is a very popular restaurant for both Rwandans and internationals. It is also attached to a supermarket (called Simba Supermarket) which I guess kills two birds with one stone! I enjoyed our evening out as the atmosphere was warm and it was a very lively night with the football being played and all. I ordered chicken and chips (with a cocktail sauce which just tasted like orange juice-weird)! Yummy (well, bar the cocktail sauce)! The chicken especially. Now, at home we seldom have meat, so it was so nice to have that chicken-to savour it and appreciate it! (Haha, okay I’m just rambling here).
On Sunday we went to Faustine’s (our driver) church located in Remera, which is not too far from our house. The service was in Kinyarwanda, so admittedly, it was hard to keep track, especially as it lasted just over 3 hours. Additionally, the church was small, overcrowded and we were sat on benches which made us all stiff (actually, I thought that sitting on benches was going to be the case for every church we went, because we got advised to bring a cushion! Haha- I guess that may just be for the rural areas) but thank God we survived it! I’m glad though that we got the chance to attend that church and such a service because it was beautifully decorated and was a service that was different to what we have been to thus far.
Going into week five, I pray for:
· Things to actually come to pass. We plan and plan and plan some more, it would be nice for most of them to actually happen. We want to enrich all the lives we come into contact with, and however that is to be done- let it be done Lord.
· A healthy team and partners. We all may get ill from time to time, but I pray that if it can be avoided, it is and when we do become ill, You give us the strength to speedily get through it and recover to continue to do Your Will.
· The other Rwanda teams and the partners they are working with. Seeing partners from the others teams on Thursday was really nice, as it reminded me that there are many of us out here doing the work of the Lord (and I know that there will be many more to come). May You continue to bless our all so that we can keep improving the people of Rwanda’s lives for the better.
This is what the Lord Almighty says: Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. - Zephaniah 3:1.
Week Three with A.E.E.
Once again, we started the working week at the A.E.E. offices, and it was the first time that we were actually on time for devotion (yay!). With it starting at 7am on the dot, we received the Message on Psalms 144, which can be seen as words of encouragement on how to live your live day by day and sang songs in Kinyarwandan (I’m starting to get familiar with a few hymns!). The weekly staff meeting followed the morning devotion (and of course it followed some chilling with the staff time too!). This particular meeting was really great and optimistic as everyone had positive feedback about the work which was done the previous week. Specifically, the A.E.E. staff enjoyed the capacity building we did we them on the Friday. It was really successful and it was now evident that the English of some of the staff members had improved massively. What we all want now really is for us volunteers to maximise all the time we have with them, as we have many things to teach them and it is a wonderful thing to see the progression that they continue to make.
We then had our team meeting to plan for the week ahead. All done swimmingly. This meeting was followed by lunch. Yummy lunch! Once again, it was full of delicious food that had you wanting more until there was no more left. During lunch, the staff also got talking about my jewellery- I don’t think they have seen so much at one time! Haha, they were fascinated as to why I wear bracelets and rings, and in turn, I was fascinated by the fact that they were fascinated by my jewellery!
After lunch, we got dropped home by Phanuel, the A.E.E. Kigali branch coordinator, to further plan into the specifics for the week ahead. This was because Faustine, our regular driver had to go away to drive someone else around (in fact, we didn’t have Faustine for the whole week, and it felt a little weird without him as our driver-the rides were much smoother haha!)
We then had our team meeting to plan for the week ahead. All done swimmingly. This meeting was followed by lunch. Yummy lunch! Once again, it was full of delicious food that had you wanting more until there was no more left. During lunch, the staff also got talking about my jewellery- I don’t think they have seen so much at one time! Haha, they were fascinated as to why I wear bracelets and rings, and in turn, I was fascinated by the fact that they were fascinated by my jewellery!
After lunch, we got dropped home by Phanuel, the A.E.E. Kigali branch coordinator, to further plan into the specifics for the week ahead. This was because Faustine, our regular driver had to go away to drive someone else around (in fact, we didn’t have Faustine for the whole week, and it felt a little weird without him as our driver-the rides were much smoother haha!)
Originally planned for Tuesday was for us to attend the women self-help group in Kacyiru, to teach them English and discuss with them their business strategies if they had any, and if not, what we could do to help them. However, we got informed in the morning that the women’s’ group would be out of town for the day, as they were going to attend a district meeting, so unfortunately we are not needed today. Ummmm, okay. That is another thing that happens A LOT out here- plans being changed moments before they are meant to take place…Hey! It’s all a part of being flexible! Additionally, our team leader, Tirion, was bed bound for the day as she was ill. This meant that Denyse was in charge and we were free to do whatever we wanted for the day. We decided that the 5 of us should continue planning for the rest of the week- this meant planning for the lessons to be held at the catch up school on Wednesday and Thursday; what we would be doing with the women at the self-help group (as it was decided that we would meet with them in Kacyiru tomorrow) and for capacity building on Friday with the A.E.E. staff. Planning really does take a long time when you are being so detailed and going into so much depth about things- we were doing it for the whole day!
On Wednesday we were joined by Joan, who is the in-country manager, Maddie, our in-country coordinator and Lucy and Amanda from the U.K. offices to spend the day to see what we get up to. It was nice to see Amanda again and meet Lucy for the first time, as they were here as part of a two week tour (to Burundi and Rwanda) to document how current volunteers are doing in their respective areas. It was an early start as we left at 7.40 in the aim of getting to the school at 8am to teach the kids. As always, whenever we go to the school, we seriously hope that there will be an adequate amount of children present to teach and play games with. And, for some reason, I didn’t think twice that this would be an issue this week, maybe because: a) there was still one week of school left before the holidays, meaning that lessons would continue as normal, and b) it was agreed last week that we would come this week, on Wednesday and Thursday, to teach the children and the person responsible for them would be informed. So you could imagine my face, as I sat at the front and we drove into the school grounds to no children! There was none. Not one running, singing or dancing like would be expected. ‘Where are the kids?!’ Is what I immediately thought. Then, ‘Great, now our guest won’t be able to see us in ‘action’’! Haha!
But thank God that there some children present- about 10 roughly, with some children coming later when we began to play games. Admittedly, it was a little disheartening, annoying and frustrating that there was not enough children to teach and as a result, our guest did not get to see what normally happens when we go to the school. But of course, we all were totally understandable about the situation, as these things happen and it is all about of adapting to your present situation. And that we did! Though there were only a handful of children there, I have to say that I still enjoyed myself with them as we danced to the beat if the drum a lot, played some games with them and I even got taught a new song called 'Amahoro' with moves by some of the older girls! So though the morning did not turn out how it was planned, it turned out how it was meant to be. And it was clear that without a doubt we brought smiles to the faces of the children that were there and that is all that matters.
For lunch, we all returned to the house, where we were treated to a buffet style meal prepared by mama Constance (with a little help from Denyse and I). There was so much of it, and it was clearly enjoyed our guests. I hope they don’t think we eat like that every day! Haha! Lunchtime was also spent chatting with our guest about the work we have done so far- how everything is really pragmatic and never concrete- which, is the best way really. They also were interested to find out about how we felt about the way ‘Tearfund’ conducted some of the events/documents for us volunteers before and during the placement. It was nice to give them feedback on things, as what we say would benefit future groups to ensure that they make the most out of their time on their placements.
But thank God that there some children present- about 10 roughly, with some children coming later when we began to play games. Admittedly, it was a little disheartening, annoying and frustrating that there was not enough children to teach and as a result, our guest did not get to see what normally happens when we go to the school. But of course, we all were totally understandable about the situation, as these things happen and it is all about of adapting to your present situation. And that we did! Though there were only a handful of children there, I have to say that I still enjoyed myself with them as we danced to the beat if the drum a lot, played some games with them and I even got taught a new song called 'Amahoro' with moves by some of the older girls! So though the morning did not turn out how it was planned, it turned out how it was meant to be. And it was clear that without a doubt we brought smiles to the faces of the children that were there and that is all that matters.
For lunch, we all returned to the house, where we were treated to a buffet style meal prepared by mama Constance (with a little help from Denyse and I). There was so much of it, and it was clearly enjoyed our guests. I hope they don’t think we eat like that every day! Haha! Lunchtime was also spent chatting with our guest about the work we have done so far- how everything is really pragmatic and never concrete- which, is the best way really. They also were interested to find out about how we felt about the way ‘Tearfund’ conducted some of the events/documents for us volunteers before and during the placement. It was nice to give them feedback on things, as what we say would benefit future groups to ensure that they make the most out of their time on their placements.
For our afternoon activities, we spent our time with the ladies at the self help group in Kacyiru. Now, I was hoping that it would not be a repeat of what happened in the morning, as when we arrived, there were no women there. But thank God that was not the case and the women slowly came in their dribs and drabs. To start, Claudine and I took the representative of the self help group to the side to discuss the women’s business plan. I asked them questions about how much funding they receive, how to they market their products and do they earning much from when their products sell. It was clear that sadly their products were not flying off the shelves, so to speak, meaning that they were not making much from them, but it was clear that the women want to do all they can to earn money from the crafts they make, in order to provide for themselves and their dependents. I made a few suggestions to them which included that they must make sure that when they are making products, they are of the highest quality and standard in order for a person to want to pick it up and buy it. Additionally, I think it would give their products a distinctive touch if they, in some way, personalised their products. As this would make their products unique and could possibly generate talk about the group when it is seen that that craft came from that self help group.
After the meeting, we conducted an English lesson. Starting them off with conversational English, I felt that it went really successfully as many of the women picked up the language quick and were very impressive when reciting back to the rest of the ladies. There was no doubt that they were looking forward to use returning and teaching them some more!
After the meeting, we conducted an English lesson. Starting them off with conversational English, I felt that it went really successfully as many of the women picked up the language quick and were very impressive when reciting back to the rest of the ladies. There was no doubt that they were looking forward to use returning and teaching them some more!
Thursday was a very different day- doubt I will have one more like this during my placement. Tirion, Claudine and I spent the day back at the Tearfund offices in Kacyiru to participate in communications training (whilst the other three spent the day helping out at a farming co-operative in Kimihurura). This event was run by the lovely Lucy, Tearfund’s media person (who we hung out with the day before and has such cool hair!) and it was aimed at improving the communication abilities of the partners to Tearfund/ICS. We gained a deeper insight into interview techniques; writing stories and having an online presence. The day ended with us being put into teams and being sent out onto the streets to collect stories- that was a highlight indeed as every team came back with humorous stories of their adventures. I enjoyed the event as I also got the chance to meet the other partners to Tearfund that are currently in the rural areas with the other teams.
Friday was spent at the A.E.E. offices, where we attended their morning devotion. Unfortunately, no capacity building took place today, as there was no staff member in sight. They were all busy either writing reports, success stories or visiting their project sites. As this was not something we were told would happen (which admittedly would have been nice to know beforehand), we prepared various fun activities for them to do, to improve their English and ICT skills, and so this news left in the lurch with many things prepared and no one to teach. This therefore meant that we were left to our own devices for the morning. I guess their work is a priority and it is a part of our duty to work around them and what they need to do. Let’s just hope next week that there’ll be people to teach!
So, as you can see from reading about this week, nothing went according to original plan bar the morning devotions at the A.E.E. offices. Though nothing went according to how we initially hoped, we still made the most out of it and touch numerous peoples’ lives. As this is a challenge that you must be prepared to faced, still remaining positive gives you hope and the ability to continue.
So, as you can see from reading about this week, nothing went according to original plan bar the morning devotions at the A.E.E. offices. Though nothing went according to how we initially hoped, we still made the most out of it and touch numerous peoples’ lives. As this is a challenge that you must be prepared to faced, still remaining positive gives you hope and the ability to continue.
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
Meet Gloria.
Full name: Uwamwiza Gloria.
Favourite thing to do: Sing.
Favourite food: Chips and vegetables.
What did you study at university and why: Finance because I want to become a businesswoman.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I want to develop my country and gain skills and experience.
Favourite word in English and why: God-because He is my creator and He’s above all things.
Favourite thing to do: Sing.
Favourite food: Chips and vegetables.
What did you study at university and why: Finance because I want to become a businesswoman.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I want to develop my country and gain skills and experience.
Favourite word in English and why: God-because He is my creator and He’s above all things.
Week Three Roundup!
Going into week four, here are my reflections on week three:
On Wednesday, Tirion and I attended a cell group with members from the Christian Life Assembly church. It took place at a lady called Juliette’s beautiful home, very close to where we live. We were blessed with the presence of the cell-coordinator of CLA (as she is always going from one cell group to another), Mary, who was so welcoming and very keen on getting to know us. Fed with African tea and amandazis, we spent a while introducing ourselves and what we do, and why we are here in Rwanda. It was nice getting to know the other people there as I enjoy meeting new people. The majority of the cell meeting was spent discussing the Holy Spirit and how to live according to God’s Word. It was very interesting and enlightening as everyone had their own perspective and experiences on universal matters. It was a very enjoyable evening being in fellowship with others. I even enjoyed playing with the cute rug-looking dog! Haha!
Faustine our driver is awesome! He sure does know how to make us laugh. Whether it be the hat he chose to wear today, or the awkward English he comes out with, he is just so funny. When he came by the house this week to say muraho, it was fun to play games with him and just relax, as whenever he is with us, it is usually to take us somewhere and we are busy, so we don’t have much time to chill out with him.
Also this week, us UK volunteers were given a Kinyrwandan lessons by Claudine and Denyse around the dinner table. I am grateful for whenever we have them-which needs to be more often- as I enjoy learning languages, and the more I communicate with Rwandans in Kinyarwandan, the better. Though of course, they want to learn English- guess we both want something from each other haha!
Now, in regards to telling someone where you live. You can’t. The streets do not have names, so the best thing you can do is point out a landmark close to you and agree to meet your guest there. It is very strange and interesting on how people get by with no street names, I mean, how do they get post! It has been (somehow- as what Denyse and Claudine would say) difficult to state to people where I live- I end up just saying the town, Kimironko, and hope they don’t say where exactly!
However, with all this said, here in Kigali, street numbers have recently been implemented. The thing is no one wants to use them. To me the system does seem a little complicated as nearby roads are not in numerical order with each other, but I guess in time people will get used to them…hopefully.
*Just a word of advice here* Bring a torch! If you are coming out here for whatever purpose, ensure that you have a torch with you-and take it wherever you go! Power cuts don’t care if they happen at an inconvenient time for you (in my case, whilst taking a shower!) they will just happen- so it is best to be prepared and be the one who saves the day!
We went back to CLA on Sunday, for a special evening service after relaxing after our marathon run. It was a lovely service on the importance of community and why cell groups are invaluable. After attending the one on Wednesday, I can only agree. As attending a cell group allows you to fellowship with others more than just on Sundays. After the service we spent just under an hour mingling with other church goers. It is important to get to know the community and expand your church involvement. Especially so for our team leader, as she is here for a longer period of 6 months, it is important to make links in the church to establish lasting connections.
Also at the service was our in-country coordinator, Maddie. I love Maddie! It was nice to see her again after the fun I had with her last week at the Inema Arts Center event. Unfortunately, we don’t get to see her often and seeing her there (well, it is the church she attends) was great. She was also joined by her friend, Christina, who is here in Rwanda volunteering with the Peace Corps. I first met her last week at the art event, so it was lovely to see and chat with her again too. She works with the local community as a health volunteer, teaching adults and children about HIV/AIDS prevention and malaria and things alike. God bless her for the work that she is doing!
They were going to the pictures after the service to see Baggage Claim- I wished I was able to join them! Haha. But it was okay, a lovely meal prepared by the blessed hands of Claudine and Denyse was awaiting me.!
So on Sunday, Denyse and Claudine cooked for the family for the first time! Yay, finally! When we arrived back from CLA, they were still cooking, so there was a little way before you could eat. I guess good things come to those who wait, because their food was so good! And there was an abundance of it! (Actually, is there never an abundance of food for us? Haha!). It was just what we needed and it definitely hit the spot. I’m looking forward to the next time they cook! Haha. Keep it coming ladies!
We ended the week with me giving two lessons (on one day!) to the team-one as part of structured learning, and the other being my weekly task of nightly devotions.
Just a little bit of insight for you. Each member of the group has been allocated a week to do structured learning. Structured learning is where we are given the opportunity to teach and lead a session, which involves discussion on a matter relating to development.
For my structured learning, I chose to focus on the importance of child participation, what the Bible says about children and what we must do, as adults, to allow child participation in decision making processes, to encourage children to succeed and to ensure that children are always given a platform to always be represented in issues concerning them. It was a successful, heated discussion, which lasted a hour and a half, as we all had valuable input to share about this issue, which is so close to all of our hearts, especially more so that we are currently working with children at the catch-up school. Children are the future, and they are a blessing from God- we must do all with can as adults to allow them grow, so they can become independent and serve others and to ultimately reach their God-given potential. All in all, children must be respected, and this is done by giving children opportunities; support; and responsibilities (this is known as the ‘wheel of participation’).
I did something slightly different for my devotion this week- I got the team to listen to Mirah.. Carey’s Fly Like A Bird and to write down what they think she is asking God for and what she thinks about the state of the world around her. Hoping for it to go off without a hitch- it didn’t. It wasn’t just Denyse and Claudine (the Rwandan volunteers) who didn’t know the song, one of the UK volunteers did not either! My bad! I thought the song was universally heard and loved. Well, I love it anyways, it sends such a beautiful strong message- you should give it a listen! And anyways, not understanding the message the first time, gave us the opportunity to reply the song multiple times- which was no problem at all. Eventually, we discussed some of the issues raised in the song, which include: unconditional love; self destruction; the Lord’s love and strength; the harsh realities we face and trusting Him. Ultimately, we all agreed that what she was asking from the Lord was what we all ask him on a daily basis- to be our strength. Our guide and protector from whatever negativity the world wants to bring us every day. As Christians, it is vital that are protected by the armour of God every day, so that when we do things, we do thing through Him and with Him, in order to please Him.
Going into week four, I pray for:
· Rain- strange I know, but Rwanda needs it right now. It is meant to be rainy season and not much rain has been coming, which obviously has affected the standard of living here. Many areas here in Kigali suffer from a shortage of water and power, so the rain water is vital as it allows communities and families to have some source of water, rather than not having nothing at all.
· Bernard. He is just so sweet and adorable! I cannot thank him enough for his protection. I don’t know he does it- I guess he is used to it. But that doesn’t stop me thinking, every time I go out and see him, that his job is horrific. I am just thankful that he has been employed- as we see many men day in and day out just wondering the streets of Kigali, because they are unemployed- and he is providing an income for himself and his family.
· The children at Kanombe catch-up school. As they get their exam results this week, I pray that they all pass with high marks and they are able to move on to their next level of education.
On Wednesday, Tirion and I attended a cell group with members from the Christian Life Assembly church. It took place at a lady called Juliette’s beautiful home, very close to where we live. We were blessed with the presence of the cell-coordinator of CLA (as she is always going from one cell group to another), Mary, who was so welcoming and very keen on getting to know us. Fed with African tea and amandazis, we spent a while introducing ourselves and what we do, and why we are here in Rwanda. It was nice getting to know the other people there as I enjoy meeting new people. The majority of the cell meeting was spent discussing the Holy Spirit and how to live according to God’s Word. It was very interesting and enlightening as everyone had their own perspective and experiences on universal matters. It was a very enjoyable evening being in fellowship with others. I even enjoyed playing with the cute rug-looking dog! Haha!
Faustine our driver is awesome! He sure does know how to make us laugh. Whether it be the hat he chose to wear today, or the awkward English he comes out with, he is just so funny. When he came by the house this week to say muraho, it was fun to play games with him and just relax, as whenever he is with us, it is usually to take us somewhere and we are busy, so we don’t have much time to chill out with him.
Also this week, us UK volunteers were given a Kinyrwandan lessons by Claudine and Denyse around the dinner table. I am grateful for whenever we have them-which needs to be more often- as I enjoy learning languages, and the more I communicate with Rwandans in Kinyarwandan, the better. Though of course, they want to learn English- guess we both want something from each other haha!
Now, in regards to telling someone where you live. You can’t. The streets do not have names, so the best thing you can do is point out a landmark close to you and agree to meet your guest there. It is very strange and interesting on how people get by with no street names, I mean, how do they get post! It has been (somehow- as what Denyse and Claudine would say) difficult to state to people where I live- I end up just saying the town, Kimironko, and hope they don’t say where exactly!
However, with all this said, here in Kigali, street numbers have recently been implemented. The thing is no one wants to use them. To me the system does seem a little complicated as nearby roads are not in numerical order with each other, but I guess in time people will get used to them…hopefully.
*Just a word of advice here* Bring a torch! If you are coming out here for whatever purpose, ensure that you have a torch with you-and take it wherever you go! Power cuts don’t care if they happen at an inconvenient time for you (in my case, whilst taking a shower!) they will just happen- so it is best to be prepared and be the one who saves the day!
We went back to CLA on Sunday, for a special evening service after relaxing after our marathon run. It was a lovely service on the importance of community and why cell groups are invaluable. After attending the one on Wednesday, I can only agree. As attending a cell group allows you to fellowship with others more than just on Sundays. After the service we spent just under an hour mingling with other church goers. It is important to get to know the community and expand your church involvement. Especially so for our team leader, as she is here for a longer period of 6 months, it is important to make links in the church to establish lasting connections.
Also at the service was our in-country coordinator, Maddie. I love Maddie! It was nice to see her again after the fun I had with her last week at the Inema Arts Center event. Unfortunately, we don’t get to see her often and seeing her there (well, it is the church she attends) was great. She was also joined by her friend, Christina, who is here in Rwanda volunteering with the Peace Corps. I first met her last week at the art event, so it was lovely to see and chat with her again too. She works with the local community as a health volunteer, teaching adults and children about HIV/AIDS prevention and malaria and things alike. God bless her for the work that she is doing!
They were going to the pictures after the service to see Baggage Claim- I wished I was able to join them! Haha. But it was okay, a lovely meal prepared by the blessed hands of Claudine and Denyse was awaiting me.!
So on Sunday, Denyse and Claudine cooked for the family for the first time! Yay, finally! When we arrived back from CLA, they were still cooking, so there was a little way before you could eat. I guess good things come to those who wait, because their food was so good! And there was an abundance of it! (Actually, is there never an abundance of food for us? Haha!). It was just what we needed and it definitely hit the spot. I’m looking forward to the next time they cook! Haha. Keep it coming ladies!
We ended the week with me giving two lessons (on one day!) to the team-one as part of structured learning, and the other being my weekly task of nightly devotions.
Just a little bit of insight for you. Each member of the group has been allocated a week to do structured learning. Structured learning is where we are given the opportunity to teach and lead a session, which involves discussion on a matter relating to development.
For my structured learning, I chose to focus on the importance of child participation, what the Bible says about children and what we must do, as adults, to allow child participation in decision making processes, to encourage children to succeed and to ensure that children are always given a platform to always be represented in issues concerning them. It was a successful, heated discussion, which lasted a hour and a half, as we all had valuable input to share about this issue, which is so close to all of our hearts, especially more so that we are currently working with children at the catch-up school. Children are the future, and they are a blessing from God- we must do all with can as adults to allow them grow, so they can become independent and serve others and to ultimately reach their God-given potential. All in all, children must be respected, and this is done by giving children opportunities; support; and responsibilities (this is known as the ‘wheel of participation’).
I did something slightly different for my devotion this week- I got the team to listen to Mirah.. Carey’s Fly Like A Bird and to write down what they think she is asking God for and what she thinks about the state of the world around her. Hoping for it to go off without a hitch- it didn’t. It wasn’t just Denyse and Claudine (the Rwandan volunteers) who didn’t know the song, one of the UK volunteers did not either! My bad! I thought the song was universally heard and loved. Well, I love it anyways, it sends such a beautiful strong message- you should give it a listen! And anyways, not understanding the message the first time, gave us the opportunity to reply the song multiple times- which was no problem at all. Eventually, we discussed some of the issues raised in the song, which include: unconditional love; self destruction; the Lord’s love and strength; the harsh realities we face and trusting Him. Ultimately, we all agreed that what she was asking from the Lord was what we all ask him on a daily basis- to be our strength. Our guide and protector from whatever negativity the world wants to bring us every day. As Christians, it is vital that are protected by the armour of God every day, so that when we do things, we do thing through Him and with Him, in order to please Him.
Going into week four, I pray for:
· Rain- strange I know, but Rwanda needs it right now. It is meant to be rainy season and not much rain has been coming, which obviously has affected the standard of living here. Many areas here in Kigali suffer from a shortage of water and power, so the rain water is vital as it allows communities and families to have some source of water, rather than not having nothing at all.
· Bernard. He is just so sweet and adorable! I cannot thank him enough for his protection. I don’t know he does it- I guess he is used to it. But that doesn’t stop me thinking, every time I go out and see him, that his job is horrific. I am just thankful that he has been employed- as we see many men day in and day out just wondering the streets of Kigali, because they are unemployed- and he is providing an income for himself and his family.
· The children at Kanombe catch-up school. As they get their exam results this week, I pray that they all pass with high marks and they are able to move on to their next level of education.
'Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility consider others better than yourselves.' Philippians 2:3.
A Weekend of Sport.
On Saturday, Claudine and I went to watch a basketball match, in which I was invited to by a member of a local church. As the only lovers of basketball in the house, we were glad to finally see some live action here in Kigali. And who knew that we would get the chance to shoot some hoops too?! Haha. It was fun as we took part in their warm up games and chatted to the guys, whilst getting active, though clearly, we were not dressed in the right attire. Playing in Kacyiru at a place called Shooters, the match was between Restoration Church and another church in Kigali City centre, Omega Church. It was such a lovely day to be out and watch basketball. It was a very intense game, with it resulting in Restoration Church winning by a landslide! Also it a welcomed change in company, as Claudine and I were the only two girls around (until we were joined by a little cutie), it was fun to ‘hang with the boys’ for the day.
After the match, we went to a local place to have celebratory sodas and to relax and chat. It was so lovely seeing all these men of God get together and enjoy each other’s company. We certainly enjoyed ourselves, as Claudine also met a mate (who she knew from high school) who was playing on the team!
After the match, we went to a local place to have celebratory sodas and to relax and chat. It was so lovely seeing all these men of God get together and enjoy each other’s company. We certainly enjoyed ourselves, as Claudine also met a mate (who she knew from high school) who was playing on the team!
Sunday was the Kigali half marathon, and Nancy, Anna and I took part in the ‘run for fun’ category of the marathon! I am soooo proud of myself and the others for doing so. I have never done or considered doing anything like this in England, and I am so happy that my first time in taking part in a fun run took place in Kigali! We were informed that the run was 7km, and not knowing the distance 7km roughly was, I thought I would be out there running for a minimum of 3 hours! No joke! But I am proud to say that I finished the run in 1 hour, 1 minute and 19 seconds! For my first time, I say that was pretty good! Also, bear in mind that Rwanda is the land of a thousand hills, so it was some mean feat! The run had me going up and down the hilly streets of Kigali, running or power walking them. I stay focused and often said to myself the one thing I cannot do is stop. I must keep going. I mean, there was a woman running in her flip flops with her handbag! and some people holding their flip flops in their hands and running bare feet, so if they could complete the run, so can I! it was sad to see some men cheat though-shame on them- I just thought what was the point?! Guess they wanted to win one of the prizes. Speaking of prizes, congrats to Anna! She was the second woman to complete the fun run, therefore winning lots and lots of goodies from MTN (the sponsors).
All in all, it was a great vibe and experience, and I am glad that I was a part of it. I also got interviewed for BBC Swahili, which was a plus!
All in all, it was a great vibe and experience, and I am glad that I was a part of it. I also got interviewed for BBC Swahili, which was a plus!
Week Two with A.E.E.
So Monday started great with a wonderful message about the crucifixion of Jesus as told by Matthew. This was followed by decisions being made during the team meeting!! Yay! It was what we were praying for. I have felt that it has been taking people’s precious sweet time to make finalisations on where we could be placed, and so to have things finally set in stone (well, again, sort of) felt good. Things are slowly but surely being put in place. What is important to remember whilst doing this sort of work is that it is best to be FLEXIBLE, as you never know when things may suddenly change- it is always ideal to have back up plans.
So it has been decided that Mondays will be spent at the A.E.E. offices, attending morning devotion at 7am with the staff (which I love), and then planning for the week ahead will be made. Planning will be done on a weekly basis because it is the best and most pragmatic way to move forward with things as doing so will allow us to get the most out of the week, if we just feed off the events which occurred the previous week.
We have lots of free time to float around, in which during that time we have a ‘tea and amandazi’ break (which we obviously worked soooo hard for! Haha), as well that, I take that time to spend it to chill in the offices with the staff (having tea and chapatti-more food!) and/or chilling with the others in the sun under the gazebo, chatting and staring at the beautiful view we are blessed with everyday.
On Mondays we also attend the A.E.E. staff meeting. These meetings are usually short, but with substantial content. They are where each staff member has the opportunity to evaluate their projects-what went well during the previous week; what can be improved and what next needs to be done for their projects. Attending this meeting gives me a greater insight into the work that each member does. Everyone is a valuable member of the team, and they all aim to POSITIVELY IMPACT THE COMMUNITY THEY SERVE- which I find very inspiring. These wonderful God-fearing human beings are not doing anything for selfish gains, but for the people of their communities.
Monday is also spent having lunch at the A.E.E. offices with the staff, which is a bonus. They are so fun and welcoming; they instantly make you feel at home and a part of the team. And the food is great too! Usually consisting cassava bread; rice; potatoes of some sort; peas; ibitoki (cooked banana); vegetables and of course meat (!!), there is always an abundance of it, and you’ll never leave not full and not feeling satisfied.
So it has been decided that Mondays will be spent at the A.E.E. offices, attending morning devotion at 7am with the staff (which I love), and then planning for the week ahead will be made. Planning will be done on a weekly basis because it is the best and most pragmatic way to move forward with things as doing so will allow us to get the most out of the week, if we just feed off the events which occurred the previous week.
We have lots of free time to float around, in which during that time we have a ‘tea and amandazi’ break (which we obviously worked soooo hard for! Haha), as well that, I take that time to spend it to chill in the offices with the staff (having tea and chapatti-more food!) and/or chilling with the others in the sun under the gazebo, chatting and staring at the beautiful view we are blessed with everyday.
On Mondays we also attend the A.E.E. staff meeting. These meetings are usually short, but with substantial content. They are where each staff member has the opportunity to evaluate their projects-what went well during the previous week; what can be improved and what next needs to be done for their projects. Attending this meeting gives me a greater insight into the work that each member does. Everyone is a valuable member of the team, and they all aim to POSITIVELY IMPACT THE COMMUNITY THEY SERVE- which I find very inspiring. These wonderful God-fearing human beings are not doing anything for selfish gains, but for the people of their communities.
Monday is also spent having lunch at the A.E.E. offices with the staff, which is a bonus. They are so fun and welcoming; they instantly make you feel at home and a part of the team. And the food is great too! Usually consisting cassava bread; rice; potatoes of some sort; peas; ibitoki (cooked banana); vegetables and of course meat (!!), there is always an abundance of it, and you’ll never leave not full and not feeling satisfied.
On Tuesday, we spent the afternoon with the lovely Rosa, an A.E.E. social worker, in Kacyiru where the women’s self help group gather to make handcrafts to sell. She runs a medical clinic there in which she provides the women and children in the community medicine supplies and health advice. This is a fantastic outlet that A.E.E. provides as it is reaching those who need medical attention the most. I was also enlightened to hear that A.E.E. provides these women and their families with medical insurance, as they are people who are often overlooked because they cannot afford it. I helped out by sorting out the filing with others, as well as speaking as much as I could to the women about themselves and their health, unfortunately they understand very little (or in some cases no) English. There was this lovely, very enthusiastic woman named Lucia who spoke at every opportunity she had! It was clear that she was keen on learning English and was so thankful for our presence. She is just one of the reasons I am looking forward to going back and helping the women. We aim to help them in their business of selling the handcrafts they make and to help them learn basic English.
Wednesday and Thursday was spent in Kanombe, at the catch up school- the catch up school we decided to give our attention, as unfortunately, there would not have been enough time to work at the two catch up schools we visited last week.
Wednesday started with a meeting with two of the teachers, Emmanuelle and Marriet, where we asked them what they wanted us to teach the children. They requested that we taught level 1 and 2 (and not level 3, because they are preparing for their exams) mainly English and Social Studies. These subjects would be the main focus for this week and next week, as in two weeks, the children will go on their school holidays. This was not something I (or any of the UK volunteers) anticipated, but thank God, we will still have the opportunity to see them during the holidays- we will plan to hold classes once a week (I wish it could be more). Sessions will also include sports, games and drama- this is so that they don’t feel like they are back in school too much, but rather at a school club.
We never took them for lessons on Wednesday, as they had just finished their final exams that very same day. Instead, we just played loads of games with them outside, which was fun and made me feel like I was a kid again. The afternoon ended with the kids singing and dancing! Now, that was dancing like no other! They knew how to get down haha! Accompanied by the drum, all the kids (well the ones that didn’t wonder home yet) joined in and showed us how it was done. Some of those little girls reminded me of my niece back home, and how she loves to dance haha!
Wednesday started with a meeting with two of the teachers, Emmanuelle and Marriet, where we asked them what they wanted us to teach the children. They requested that we taught level 1 and 2 (and not level 3, because they are preparing for their exams) mainly English and Social Studies. These subjects would be the main focus for this week and next week, as in two weeks, the children will go on their school holidays. This was not something I (or any of the UK volunteers) anticipated, but thank God, we will still have the opportunity to see them during the holidays- we will plan to hold classes once a week (I wish it could be more). Sessions will also include sports, games and drama- this is so that they don’t feel like they are back in school too much, but rather at a school club.
We never took them for lessons on Wednesday, as they had just finished their final exams that very same day. Instead, we just played loads of games with them outside, which was fun and made me feel like I was a kid again. The afternoon ended with the kids singing and dancing! Now, that was dancing like no other! They knew how to get down haha! Accompanied by the drum, all the kids (well the ones that didn’t wonder home yet) joined in and showed us how it was done. Some of those little girls reminded me of my niece back home, and how she loves to dance haha!
On Thursday we spent a much longer time with the children-from 8am-12pm. When we arrived, we received a wonderful welcome from the students in the form of a musical assembly. Just like the day before, the kids were getting down to the beat of the drum and singing. It was a lovely thing to see, though dust was flying everywhere, making it a little hard to see. Haha. During the assembly, the principle gave a morning sermon in Kinyrwandan and ended with a prayer in which all the 100+ students took part in. It was truly an outstanding thing to see.
Once it ended, we saw the students head outside to line up outside their respected classrooms. During that time, they had to stand and ease and at attention (which totally brought me back to my army cadet days) before they could enter their classes. It is so nice to see children so disciplined and respectful of deserving adults.
The class that Tirion, Denyse and myself took was full to the brim. I say there were only a few seats empty. Today, we taught them English. Emphasising the purpose of verbs. It was an interesting experience teaching English to these kids, and with Tirion, who is a trained English teacher and Denyse, our translator and also an excellent teacher, our team work allowed the children to get a good understanding of the importance of verbs in the past and present tenses. It wasn’t all just ‘sit down and listen’ for the kids; they were very active in the sessions. It was lovely to see how keen they were to get to the board to answer questions. All you would hear and see was ‘me teacher, me!’, with them standing and waving their hands in the hope of being chosen to answer the question .
I thoroughly enjoyed our first substantial session with the children, as I believe both sides left with something that they did not come with- for me that’s knowing and seeing how passionate and enthusiastic children can get when they are keen on learning, especially when the odds are against them.
Once it ended, we saw the students head outside to line up outside their respected classrooms. During that time, they had to stand and ease and at attention (which totally brought me back to my army cadet days) before they could enter their classes. It is so nice to see children so disciplined and respectful of deserving adults.
The class that Tirion, Denyse and myself took was full to the brim. I say there were only a few seats empty. Today, we taught them English. Emphasising the purpose of verbs. It was an interesting experience teaching English to these kids, and with Tirion, who is a trained English teacher and Denyse, our translator and also an excellent teacher, our team work allowed the children to get a good understanding of the importance of verbs in the past and present tenses. It wasn’t all just ‘sit down and listen’ for the kids; they were very active in the sessions. It was lovely to see how keen they were to get to the board to answer questions. All you would hear and see was ‘me teacher, me!’, with them standing and waving their hands in the hope of being chosen to answer the question .
I thoroughly enjoyed our first substantial session with the children, as I believe both sides left with something that they did not come with- for me that’s knowing and seeing how passionate and enthusiastic children can get when they are keen on learning, especially when the odds are against them.
During the break, we got the chance to listen to the choir practice. It was very sweet and angelic. I mean, I don’t think I’ve met a Rwandan that cannot sing beautifully yet! As the morning session was coming to an end, we ended it with songs and dancing! I mean, is there any other way?! After the four hours we were all pretty exhausted- kids take all your energy! Nevertheless, we are looking forward to returning next week and helping the future of Rwanda grow!
On Friday, after our morning devotion with the A.E.E. staff, and a tea break (which we once again so rightly deserved!) we conducted our first capacity training session for the A.E.E. staff. We decided to split them into two groups, based on their current level of English, and teach them English first and then I.C.T. It was a successful session, and enjoyed by all. We got the staff doing role plays, and talking about themselves, which had them in stitches. It was evident that they really enjoyed being practical and moving around, as the previous team was mainly theoretical in their work with the staff, they really appreciated the fact that we got them up and being interactive with us. The I.C.T. session was conducted on a more 1:1 approach, as that was the best way, because they were all at different standards with programmes, such as word. I worked with Alexis, a social worker and the cool guy we went to all the project sites with the previous week, and I enjoyed seeing how keen he was when he understood something or show me something that he already knew. It was clear that, in both groups, progress was being made in everyone.
It was a great way to end the week with the A.E.E. staff, as they look forward to our return next week, and we look forward to going there and seeing and helping them.
It was a great way to end the week with the A.E.E. staff, as they look forward to our return next week, and we look forward to going there and seeing and helping them.
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
Meet Patrice.
Full name: Patrice Nshuti.
Favourite thing to do: Play football.
Favourite food: Pineapples and mangos.
What did you study at university and why: I studied agriculture because I would like to teach other Rwandese skills needed for farming, and improve sustainable development of my country.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to become a volunteer because I want to improve my English, and to understand the UK youth culture better, as well as, gain new friends.
Favourite word in English and why: Patriotism- because I love my country!
Favourite thing to do: Play football.
Favourite food: Pineapples and mangos.
What did you study at university and why: I studied agriculture because I would like to teach other Rwandese skills needed for farming, and improve sustainable development of my country.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I decided to become a volunteer because I want to improve my English, and to understand the UK youth culture better, as well as, gain new friends.
Favourite word in English and why: Patriotism- because I love my country!
Week One and Week Two Roundup!
My aim is to this every week, but, as I am doing the first one now (opps!), it makes sense to put the first two weeks together (plus…getting internet use obviously depends on how much I update)!
Going into week three, here are my reflections on the first two weeks:
The first week flew by! The first few orientation days were nice, we needed them I guess. They were very beneficial, as they introduced us to what was going to be in store for us. Well, they sort of introduced us to what exactly what we would be doing, I guess we wouldn’t know that completely until we started our projects. But it was a nice time to talk with others who weren’t on your team as well as a great chance to get to know the In Country Volunteers- who are awesome! However, I was keen on getting started, so I was pretty excited when Friday rolled around, as that was when we moved into our permanent residence.
*Little rant about calls here* First thing on the Tuesday we arrived, we got brought SIM cards if you asked for one. I had been quite annoyed this week that I am the only one out of everyone (that I am aware of) that did not receive a ‘registered’ SIM card! I have been able to call people, but I was unable to receive calls and texts, or text people. I mean, what was that about?! Ahhh! People have been trying to call me as well, which made this predicament seriously lame as I lost out on valuable conversations with family back home, even when they called the team phone-because it wasn’t with me and they called when the person who had it was asleep, making them annoyed at me.
So, during week two, I was allowed to go to the phone store to fix the issue. It turns out that my SIM was registered ‘apparently’…so what was the issue? Up until this day, I don’t know. But thank God it works now and I am receiving calls from family back home, which is great! *okay rant done*
Our first weekend after moving into our place was nice. Feeling too like an introduction to the capital still, the weekend was spent pretty much just coasting around Kigali City. Especially Saturday. We took the bus (our first time and it was crazy as there was a football match going on and it was crowded, rowdy and mad!) and went into town. It was a typical Saturday, with traders trading and consumers buying. I enjoyed our tour, conducted by our driver, Faustine, seeing the sights, and everyday Kigali life. We went to the top floor of a shopping mall and got the most perfect view of Kigali- its thousands hills and all. Seriously, it was beautiful. Rwanda is beautiful. Kigali is such a clean city and with the view it has to offer, makes it even better! Sunday was tranquil. With receiving a great Message at church to then chilling poolside and listening to the hotel band- I want all my Sundays to be like that! Haha!
Week two now has been a little more testing, shall I say. I am slowly but surely getting used to the slow moving pace people live by here. Which is fine. I say we move to fast back home anyways. Better known as “Africa time”, I just have to remember that when someone says a time, they don’t necessarily mean that time, or they are simply going to be late! It’s fine, well, sometimes. Just have to find something to occupy myself with I guess, and it’s not like I don’t do it myself in England with mates! I’m guilty of it too, so I hope I don’t sound like a hypocrite as I have ‘fessed up! Haha!
Additionally, as I said in a previous post that we started work on Monday, well, this wasn’t the case exactly. Outlined in my ‘Week One with A.E.E.’ post, you’ll see that we don’t get to work this week actually. Admittedly, I found this a little frustrating as I am keen to get started on working with those that need my help. But then again, the reason we needed to do what we did this past week is understandable, as we as a team needed to get introduced to people/things and orientated in order to see exactly where we are best suited to volunteer.
Water!! We have not had running water in our house since Saturday! Saturday 5th October! It’s not bothering me too much, compared to others, I just thank God that I’m very adjustable to deal with such situations-and I just fill up buckets with water from outside and boil the kettle if I want hot water. (However, as I type this is my room, the toilet in my en-suite flushed!! Our running water comes and goes when it pleases haha!).
It’s a bit tough though when there is no drinking water. We are always running out and it’s a necessity. I guess all we can do is keep pressing on get just get loads of water bottles stacked up in the pantry! I should include power cuts here! They are happening far too often. They are funny (especially when it happens in a supermarket-which it did the other day! I must remember to take my torch everywhere with me) and happen when you least expect it. Well, I guess from now on, I should expect it and be surprised when it doesn’t happen! Haha! I mean, the other night, it happened 5 times in half an hour at home!
Phones! Now, Rwandans LOVE their phones! Being on it, talking and just always keeping them near! It’s amazing how many times Denyse and Claudine have been called out for being on their phone/looking at them when we are having team time. I get phone calls once a week! They get on at least once an hour! Haha!
In week two, Claudine, Denyse, Anna and I went for the evening service at a church called Restoration Church in central Kimironko. The service was in Kinyarwandan, but thank God for our trusty translators, who told us the Message in English. The praise and worship and service was wonderful as it was about having compassion for others. It is important to have compassion, as one must always do what they can to help those less fortunate. After the service, we enjoyed a nice walk back to the bus station, where we met some of Denyse’s and Claudine’s friends, who were so welcoming and sweet. The English service at Restoration church is on Sunday afternoons, so we are looking to going there one Sunday.
On Friday, as we had some spare time, Anna and I decided to do some exploring. Exploring with a purpose, actually. We were on the lookout for an arts and crafts making centre called ‘Centre Ceasar’. We were on the right track, as we walked to central Kimironko and followed a sign we saw for the centre. However, upon following that sign, it lead us nowhere. ‘Luckily’ a man (who said he is the ‘umuganda’ of our area) spotted us, and helped us with our quest of finding the place. However, after going down some more roads, walking on rocky paths, we realised that we weren’t going to find the place- where we were now was nowhere near the first sign we saw for the centre! Nevertheless, we enjoyed our mini adventure in the post-rain weather (which is nice here), and we know that we will find the place next time! I’m excited to see what happens there with the local community!
Finally, on reflection of week two, I am enjoying our nightly devotion sessions. When we moved in, as a family we decided on house rules and that included nightly devotions. This involves us getting together after dinner every night (apart from Sunday) to have devotion. Basically, it is a group discussion on anything. Well, anything relatable to our purpose here. So far we have spoken about things such as praying for development, what poverty is and (my night’s topic) the importance of prayer. It is great as it brings us together and each night someone leads the devotion, thus allowing us to improve our confidence and communication skills- which of course will help us when we start teaching the children!
Going into week three, I pray for:
· Decisions to be made. Week two allowed us to view all our options. Now I pray that as a team, and with the A.E.E. staff, we get some finalisation on things so we can start working with those that need us, sooner rather than later.
· Water. That there will be no shortage of it for us, and we have back up for days. However, if that is not to be the case, I pray that we have it flowing through the taps at night (as that is the case more often than not) so we can fill up every bucket/barrel/jerry can we have, so what we get will suffice for the following day.
· Continued health and safety. For the team. I thank God for Bernard, our night guard. I think his job is horrific, but I thank God for him. He is so sweet and I am happy that he has a job that gives him an income so that he can help himself and his family. We have all had days when we have not been feeling 100%, so I pray that when it’s because of our health or anything else, You sort out our discomfort quickly and make it temporary, so that we can stay focused on why we are here.
Going into week three, here are my reflections on the first two weeks:
The first week flew by! The first few orientation days were nice, we needed them I guess. They were very beneficial, as they introduced us to what was going to be in store for us. Well, they sort of introduced us to what exactly what we would be doing, I guess we wouldn’t know that completely until we started our projects. But it was a nice time to talk with others who weren’t on your team as well as a great chance to get to know the In Country Volunteers- who are awesome! However, I was keen on getting started, so I was pretty excited when Friday rolled around, as that was when we moved into our permanent residence.
*Little rant about calls here* First thing on the Tuesday we arrived, we got brought SIM cards if you asked for one. I had been quite annoyed this week that I am the only one out of everyone (that I am aware of) that did not receive a ‘registered’ SIM card! I have been able to call people, but I was unable to receive calls and texts, or text people. I mean, what was that about?! Ahhh! People have been trying to call me as well, which made this predicament seriously lame as I lost out on valuable conversations with family back home, even when they called the team phone-because it wasn’t with me and they called when the person who had it was asleep, making them annoyed at me.
So, during week two, I was allowed to go to the phone store to fix the issue. It turns out that my SIM was registered ‘apparently’…so what was the issue? Up until this day, I don’t know. But thank God it works now and I am receiving calls from family back home, which is great! *okay rant done*
Our first weekend after moving into our place was nice. Feeling too like an introduction to the capital still, the weekend was spent pretty much just coasting around Kigali City. Especially Saturday. We took the bus (our first time and it was crazy as there was a football match going on and it was crowded, rowdy and mad!) and went into town. It was a typical Saturday, with traders trading and consumers buying. I enjoyed our tour, conducted by our driver, Faustine, seeing the sights, and everyday Kigali life. We went to the top floor of a shopping mall and got the most perfect view of Kigali- its thousands hills and all. Seriously, it was beautiful. Rwanda is beautiful. Kigali is such a clean city and with the view it has to offer, makes it even better! Sunday was tranquil. With receiving a great Message at church to then chilling poolside and listening to the hotel band- I want all my Sundays to be like that! Haha!
Week two now has been a little more testing, shall I say. I am slowly but surely getting used to the slow moving pace people live by here. Which is fine. I say we move to fast back home anyways. Better known as “Africa time”, I just have to remember that when someone says a time, they don’t necessarily mean that time, or they are simply going to be late! It’s fine, well, sometimes. Just have to find something to occupy myself with I guess, and it’s not like I don’t do it myself in England with mates! I’m guilty of it too, so I hope I don’t sound like a hypocrite as I have ‘fessed up! Haha!
Additionally, as I said in a previous post that we started work on Monday, well, this wasn’t the case exactly. Outlined in my ‘Week One with A.E.E.’ post, you’ll see that we don’t get to work this week actually. Admittedly, I found this a little frustrating as I am keen to get started on working with those that need my help. But then again, the reason we needed to do what we did this past week is understandable, as we as a team needed to get introduced to people/things and orientated in order to see exactly where we are best suited to volunteer.
Water!! We have not had running water in our house since Saturday! Saturday 5th October! It’s not bothering me too much, compared to others, I just thank God that I’m very adjustable to deal with such situations-and I just fill up buckets with water from outside and boil the kettle if I want hot water. (However, as I type this is my room, the toilet in my en-suite flushed!! Our running water comes and goes when it pleases haha!).
It’s a bit tough though when there is no drinking water. We are always running out and it’s a necessity. I guess all we can do is keep pressing on get just get loads of water bottles stacked up in the pantry! I should include power cuts here! They are happening far too often. They are funny (especially when it happens in a supermarket-which it did the other day! I must remember to take my torch everywhere with me) and happen when you least expect it. Well, I guess from now on, I should expect it and be surprised when it doesn’t happen! Haha! I mean, the other night, it happened 5 times in half an hour at home!
Phones! Now, Rwandans LOVE their phones! Being on it, talking and just always keeping them near! It’s amazing how many times Denyse and Claudine have been called out for being on their phone/looking at them when we are having team time. I get phone calls once a week! They get on at least once an hour! Haha!
In week two, Claudine, Denyse, Anna and I went for the evening service at a church called Restoration Church in central Kimironko. The service was in Kinyarwandan, but thank God for our trusty translators, who told us the Message in English. The praise and worship and service was wonderful as it was about having compassion for others. It is important to have compassion, as one must always do what they can to help those less fortunate. After the service, we enjoyed a nice walk back to the bus station, where we met some of Denyse’s and Claudine’s friends, who were so welcoming and sweet. The English service at Restoration church is on Sunday afternoons, so we are looking to going there one Sunday.
On Friday, as we had some spare time, Anna and I decided to do some exploring. Exploring with a purpose, actually. We were on the lookout for an arts and crafts making centre called ‘Centre Ceasar’. We were on the right track, as we walked to central Kimironko and followed a sign we saw for the centre. However, upon following that sign, it lead us nowhere. ‘Luckily’ a man (who said he is the ‘umuganda’ of our area) spotted us, and helped us with our quest of finding the place. However, after going down some more roads, walking on rocky paths, we realised that we weren’t going to find the place- where we were now was nowhere near the first sign we saw for the centre! Nevertheless, we enjoyed our mini adventure in the post-rain weather (which is nice here), and we know that we will find the place next time! I’m excited to see what happens there with the local community!
Finally, on reflection of week two, I am enjoying our nightly devotion sessions. When we moved in, as a family we decided on house rules and that included nightly devotions. This involves us getting together after dinner every night (apart from Sunday) to have devotion. Basically, it is a group discussion on anything. Well, anything relatable to our purpose here. So far we have spoken about things such as praying for development, what poverty is and (my night’s topic) the importance of prayer. It is great as it brings us together and each night someone leads the devotion, thus allowing us to improve our confidence and communication skills- which of course will help us when we start teaching the children!
Going into week three, I pray for:
· Decisions to be made. Week two allowed us to view all our options. Now I pray that as a team, and with the A.E.E. staff, we get some finalisation on things so we can start working with those that need us, sooner rather than later.
· Water. That there will be no shortage of it for us, and we have back up for days. However, if that is not to be the case, I pray that we have it flowing through the taps at night (as that is the case more often than not) so we can fill up every bucket/barrel/jerry can we have, so what we get will suffice for the following day.
· Continued health and safety. For the team. I thank God for Bernard, our night guard. I think his job is horrific, but I thank God for him. He is so sweet and I am happy that he has a job that gives him an income so that he can help himself and his family. We have all had days when we have not been feeling 100%, so I pray that when it’s because of our health or anything else, You sort out our discomfort quickly and make it temporary, so that we can stay focused on why we are here.
'In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’- Acts 20:35
Global Missions Church.
For our second Sunday, we visited Denyse’s church, Global Missions Church, in Kimihurura. It was such a great service and our time to go, as they had a special guest pastor who conducted the service in English. Thank God for that! As the service is normally in Kinyrwanadan, we went on the day we were meant to (as opposed to last week) so we could receive the Word fully and understandably. The pastor was Pastor Gary from the US. I thoroughly enjoyed the Message as it was circling around the importance of being committed to God and being in a covenant with Him. It is of the utmost that we as Christians have genuine faith, as it is a pre-requisite to having a relationship with God. 2 Corinthians 13:5 outlines the importance of having faith. The Message was wonderful as it was a reminder that we must renew and strengthen our faith in Christ every day, as the battle against the adversary is still there and ever present.
We must have faith and be open to listen to Him, and He will speak to us.
We must have faith and be open to listen to Him, and He will speak to us.
Inema Arts Center.
On Saturday night, we were invited to an art event. It was a great night out in Kigali as the crowd was diverse and it was a great, chilled atmosphere. There was music and traditional Rwandan dance from adorable children and a taco bar! We had chicken tacos! (Our first time having chicken since we arrived and we were loving it!) and enjoyed looking at the amazing art creations. The owners of the center and the artists are brothers. I met all three of them and they were incredibly nice and humble, as they received so many compliments for their work.
We also took part in live painting and I have to say, I’m pretty proud of what I came up with! Haha! But mine was nothing compared to some other people’s pieces. They were professional painters, so it’s no surprise.
All in all, it was a fun way to end a Saturday-out in Kigali City and enjoying what it had to offer.
We also took part in live painting and I have to say, I’m pretty proud of what I came up with! Haha! But mine was nothing compared to some other people’s pieces. They were professional painters, so it’s no surprise.
All in all, it was a fun way to end a Saturday-out in Kigali City and enjoying what it had to offer.
Quelque Part.
Saturday was the first time we ate out in a restaurant. We were out in Kigali City, and Denyse and Claudine knew about this restaurant Quelque Part, meaning 'somewhere'. The meal was just what I needed- burger and chips! Haha! So yummy and filling. And would you believe, all six of our meals totaled less than £18, including drinks! The waiter was really cool too, telling us about his other job- as a rapper!
Week One with A.E.E.
Monday- I got up at 5.45am (!) and had a quick breakfast as we were running a little late. We got picked up just before 7am to get to the A.E.E. offices, so we can attend their morning devotion hour (which they do every morning) which is from 7-8am. Unfortunately, we were 10 minutes late, due to the morning rush hour and such. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the 50 minutes of the devotion we got. It consisted of hymns and a bible study of Matthew. Majority of the devotion was in Kinyarwandan, but fortunately, the important parts were translated for us.
We received such a warm welcome too. After we stood up, said good morning (mwaramutse) and introduced ourselves, to the A.E.E. staff, they sang a welcoming song accompanied with hand movements. That was sweet. They also noticed and laughed at the gender imbalance. I guess it’s odd, teams are usually mixed. I guess that says we need more British men to step up! Haha.
The rest of the morning and afternoon was spent being introduced to members of the A.E.E. Kigali team and getting to know them and their roles in the organisation. It was cool going round the offices, as everyone was friendly and welcoming. Personally I felt that I had been there before, as I made myself comfortable with them, and laughed and joked about things with them, the way office workers do. We also had a couple of meetings- one with the deputy leader of A.E.E. Kigali and one with the main team of A.E.E. staff we would potentially be working with.
In the first meeting, we were given a deeper insight about the great world A.E.E. does, not just in Rwanda, but in numerous other countries in Africa, as well as a short history lesson on how A.E.E. came to be. The second meeting was much longer, as we the meeting consisted of various aspects. First, we all introduced ourselves, saying our likes/dislikes/favorite sports and food etc. This generated laughs and conversations on football teams, which was cool to see, as it showed the staff had a ‘fun’ side. Then, in teams (interns (us volunteers) and A.E.E. staff) we brainstormed and then discussed what we expected from each other. This included (from us) to make a strong contribution to the work that they do, and (from them) to help improve their English and computer skills. Doing this helped establish our positions in the team much clearer and gave me more further understanding as to my personal role here.
Then, it was decided that the week will be spent going around all the project field sites. Being a little ‘ahh man! When is the work actually going to start?!’ this plan somewhat startled me. But then, on reflection, it was definitely necessary as we needed to see everything, in order for us to properly decide where we would be most suited to, and what we felt most passionate about. (In fact, I don’t understand how we could move on if we did o’t spend the past week doing what we did).
We received such a warm welcome too. After we stood up, said good morning (mwaramutse) and introduced ourselves, to the A.E.E. staff, they sang a welcoming song accompanied with hand movements. That was sweet. They also noticed and laughed at the gender imbalance. I guess it’s odd, teams are usually mixed. I guess that says we need more British men to step up! Haha.
The rest of the morning and afternoon was spent being introduced to members of the A.E.E. Kigali team and getting to know them and their roles in the organisation. It was cool going round the offices, as everyone was friendly and welcoming. Personally I felt that I had been there before, as I made myself comfortable with them, and laughed and joked about things with them, the way office workers do. We also had a couple of meetings- one with the deputy leader of A.E.E. Kigali and one with the main team of A.E.E. staff we would potentially be working with.
In the first meeting, we were given a deeper insight about the great world A.E.E. does, not just in Rwanda, but in numerous other countries in Africa, as well as a short history lesson on how A.E.E. came to be. The second meeting was much longer, as we the meeting consisted of various aspects. First, we all introduced ourselves, saying our likes/dislikes/favorite sports and food etc. This generated laughs and conversations on football teams, which was cool to see, as it showed the staff had a ‘fun’ side. Then, in teams (interns (us volunteers) and A.E.E. staff) we brainstormed and then discussed what we expected from each other. This included (from us) to make a strong contribution to the work that they do, and (from them) to help improve their English and computer skills. Doing this helped establish our positions in the team much clearer and gave me more further understanding as to my personal role here.
Then, it was decided that the week will be spent going around all the project field sites. Being a little ‘ahh man! When is the work actually going to start?!’ this plan somewhat startled me. But then, on reflection, it was definitely necessary as we needed to see everything, in order for us to properly decide where we would be most suited to, and what we felt most passionate about. (In fact, I don’t understand how we could move on if we did o’t spend the past week doing what we did).
Later then stated (Africa time) was lunch. Now I was starving, so I was happy to see lots of food on offer. I had cassava bread, chips, rice and meat, with salad. It was a nice filling lunch with the staff. It allowed us to talk once again and crack jokes. Then it was back to work for the staff and home for us.
Tuesday- we visited two project sites today. Two schools located in Kanombe and Gahanga. The schools we would potentially be working at are catch-up schools. Catch up schools are for children whose family cannot afford normal school, are orphaned or are former street children.
The children are soooo sweet. They stare and smile, and give you hugs (hobe). We got introduced to all the classes and were told about the different levels and what their next stages will be. It is so beautiful and inspiring to see how far these children have come. They all looked so smart and pretty in their uniforms. I’m just so thankful that people (the staff at the schools) have volunteered their time to help those less fortunate in their communities.
The children are soooo sweet. They stare and smile, and give you hugs (hobe). We got introduced to all the classes and were told about the different levels and what their next stages will be. It is so beautiful and inspiring to see how far these children have come. They all looked so smart and pretty in their uniforms. I’m just so thankful that people (the staff at the schools) have volunteered their time to help those less fortunate in their communities.
As we were introduced to each class, we were greeted with a standing ovation and a class chant, ‘welcome visitors’. It brought a smile to my face. They were so obedient and polite; this trait needs to see itself in UK classrooms!
We introduced ourselves to the classes, and without fail, whenever I said my name, ‘nitwar Shanté’, the class replied ‘Chantal’! Haha! In fact, it happened the whole week, at every project site!! I have now ended up stressing out the two synobals as much as possible when I introduce myself, yet, still people say Chantal! Haha! As well as that, Alexis (an A.E.E. social worker, and who has been travelling with us to the project sites) has to further explain to the class why Nancy and I (in Anna’s words) are black! It’s funny as all I can make out are the words; UK; Nigeria and Jamaica (as well as his reference to Bob Marley).
Though it was funny sometimes, honestly, I feel it’s pretty sad too. These kids are not used to seeing people who ‘look like them’ come from afar and help them, which is why we needed further explanation. I believe everyone should step up and help those in your community , in the world, who is less fortunate than you. Humble yourself to see who needs your help.
We introduced ourselves to the classes, and without fail, whenever I said my name, ‘nitwar Shanté’, the class replied ‘Chantal’! Haha! In fact, it happened the whole week, at every project site!! I have now ended up stressing out the two synobals as much as possible when I introduce myself, yet, still people say Chantal! Haha! As well as that, Alexis (an A.E.E. social worker, and who has been travelling with us to the project sites) has to further explain to the class why Nancy and I (in Anna’s words) are black! It’s funny as all I can make out are the words; UK; Nigeria and Jamaica (as well as his reference to Bob Marley).
Though it was funny sometimes, honestly, I feel it’s pretty sad too. These kids are not used to seeing people who ‘look like them’ come from afar and help them, which is why we needed further explanation. I believe everyone should step up and help those in your community , in the world, who is less fortunate than you. Humble yourself to see who needs your help.
Tuesday afternoon was spent visiting a women self helps groups in Kimihurura and Kacyiru. It was enlightening to see these women at work and being self efficient. They are keen to have businesses and earn their keep which is so inspiring.
Wednesday- we visited a women self help group on top of a hill! The drive was rough and fun- like being on a roller coaster- but we all have learnt to trust Faustine as he is an awesome driver. These women specialised in making blankets and want to expand and improve their business.
Just before we left, I wrote a message in their guest book. Translated by Claudine, I saw it bring smiles to their faces, which brought a smile to mine. Bless them, I pray that they will have what they need, to provide for their families.
Just before we left, I wrote a message in their guest book. Translated by Claudine, I saw it bring smiles to their faces, which brought a smile to mine. Bless them, I pray that they will have what they need, to provide for their families.
Thursday-today was the heaviest it has rained in Kigali thus far. The weather is very temperamental as it would be hot one minute where I’m taking off a jumper/cardigan, to flushing down with rain and soaking everything and everyone. I guess it’s like England, and it is rainy season after all!
Today we visited two farming co-operatives. First was a pigs farm, which was cool. I’m glad I got to see the rural side of Kigali as we are unable to visit the other teams who are volunteering in rural areas. The pigs were plentiful and cute. Smelly but cute haha. We were introduced to one of the farmers and were given an explanation of the project and what they do with the pigs and how they generate income.
There was also a school on site. Now, those kids were so adorable! We caught them in a maths class and they impressed us with their skills, by getting the answers right. Clever clogs!
The second farm we visited was a banana tree plantation. We stayed in doors for the talk as the rain took control.
We decided to wait there until the rain died down so we would have a somewhat safe drive back. During the hour we waited, I had a Kinyrwandan lesson with Alexis. The main word I remember from it is ‘hobe’ which is ‘hug’! Haha, I have been saying it all the time now.
And bless Alexis, he kept apologising to us for suffering in the rain (imvura), but we kept saying no worries, as it is what we were used to.
We decided to wait there until the rain died down so we would have a somewhat safe drive back. During the hour we waited, I had a Kinyrwandan lesson with Alexis. The main word I remember from it is ‘hobe’ which is ‘hug’! Haha, I have been saying it all the time now.
And bless Alexis, he kept apologising to us for suffering in the rain (imvura), but we kept saying no worries, as it is what we were used to.
Friday- we visited the final site needing our help. It was a farm again; this time on site was rabbits, goats and chickens! We were there only for a brief time, and got introduced to the farmers and told what about what they do with the animals and how they make revenue. It is very enlightening and inspiring to know that these women (and one man here) want to do all they can in their power to improve their lives and their families.
The general aim of the week was to find out what they wanted from us and what we could do for them.
The tough part started on Friday, when we returned home, as we had to brainstorm and ‘eliminate’ the projects we felt that we could not offer as much as we could to others. I would like to work on all the projects, but the reality of that is not really feasible as we need to focus our energy only on a couple, plus help the A.E.E. staff improve their English and general skills.
So, from Monday (hopefully) we would have finalisations on where we would be volunteering during the remaining 8 weeks, or less (remember, Africa time!!).
The visits this week have really been eye openers to the ‘developing’ world and how they are doing all they can to get out of their predicaments to make better lives for themselves and their families. It is very inspiring.
The tough part started on Friday, when we returned home, as we had to brainstorm and ‘eliminate’ the projects we felt that we could not offer as much as we could to others. I would like to work on all the projects, but the reality of that is not really feasible as we need to focus our energy only on a couple, plus help the A.E.E. staff improve their English and general skills.
So, from Monday (hopefully) we would have finalisations on where we would be volunteering during the remaining 8 weeks, or less (remember, Africa time!!).
The visits this week have really been eye openers to the ‘developing’ world and how they are doing all they can to get out of their predicaments to make better lives for themselves and their families. It is very inspiring.
Team A.E.E. Kigali.
So here is the team! Team A.E.E. Kigali. We are the Tearfund/ICS October- December 2013 placement team. I am not sure how they put us together- I doubt it was done randomly- but here we are! We are all here for the same purpose- to better ourselves as Christians and to do our duty, which is to help those on this earth who are less fortunate than ourselves. God has blessed us, so we can bless others. And when we pour out blessings, this gives God space to bless us with more.
I am blessed to be a blessing, are you?
I am blessed to be a blessing, are you?
Christian Life Assembly.
For our first Sunday in Kigali, we decided to attend the Christian Life Assembly church located in Nyarutarama. As there was another Tearfund team still in town, we decided to meet up with them there also. We decided as a group that we will attend various churches on Sundays in order for us to get a variety of the church services Kigali has to offer, this includes also going to one of the team member’s (Denyse) church, which I am looking forward to. I enjoyed the praise and worship, the Message- which was based on the Dispensation of the Holy Spirit, and ultimately, the building up of the church-and the atmosphere the church gave me. I am looking forward to going back, and hearing the Word there again.
The rest of the day was pretty chilled. We met up with the other team that was still in town again and went to a local hotel, Luxury hotel. Some swam, whilst others chilled and abused the free wi-fi. I was the last to leave, as I stayed and enjoyed the band play classic songs. It was a relaxing end to a lovely day.
I got my hair did!
After moving in on Friday and settling into our permanent residence, we had free time. As we would be going to Kigali City centre the next day, I thought now was a better time than ever to get my hair braided. Especially as the days and weeks ahead are going to be busy, I doubt there would be any other appropriate time. Thankfully, we found one literally 2 minutes from our home. The total cost was *drumroll* £13.80!! It was 12,000 Rwandan franc (£12) for the hair and to get it done, 1,500 Rwandan franc (£1.50) for the wash and blow dry and finally 300 Rwandan franc (30p!!!) to get my eyebrows done! Can you say ah-maze-ing!! Or better yet, igitangaza!! I have been looking forward to doing my hair in this style for a while now, and thought there was no better place than to rock it in Africa. I love it!! The braids are so big and long, Haha. Changing my hair is fun! I wasn't going to, but, I might (!) change it again for the sake of being in Africa amongst great hairdressers, and it being a seriously low price! (I pray this prices come home with me!!). Plus, according to people, I look 'more' African with my hair like this.
My New Home.
So, on Friday 4th October, we moved into our permanent residence in the district of Kimironko. We are so blessed to have been given such a lovely place to reside for the placement. I mean, take a look. We are blessed with a driver, cook and night guard (bless him, he’s out there for the whole night watching over us and the house. We do feed him, don’t worry!). Constance is our cook and oh so much more. She is so lovely, sweet and welcoming, and her cooking is soooooo good- I’m always going for seconds. I have stuck words and phrases related to household objects in English and Kinyarwandan around the house, so that she can improve her English, and us our Kinyarwandan of course! It is fun learning with her as she always cracks a smile and laugh.
Now, the house is great and I love it, but it does come with its challenges. There is no hot water. That’s fine. However I am still adjusting to only cold showers (guess I can boil water if I'm desperate). There is sometimes no water and electricity at all. That is fine too. Well, sort of. We have been blessed with back up resources (which, when the water comes, we have to fill EVERY bottle/Jerry can/barrel we have!! so it’s not the end of the world. And I guess anticipating the possibility of such things helps! But, admittedly, it would be nice to have this need readily available, as going to the toilet, showering and brushing our teeth takes serious effort. We just have to pray that continuous flow will be our portion.
On Friday, we were also introduced to our partners from African Evangelistic Enterprise (A.E.E.), the organisation we will be working with. During the brief meeting, they informed us of what the weeks ahead had in store for us, and what they expected of us. The talk got me excited and also anticipating the week ahead. We start on Monday!
Now, the house is great and I love it, but it does come with its challenges. There is no hot water. That’s fine. However I am still adjusting to only cold showers (guess I can boil water if I'm desperate). There is sometimes no water and electricity at all. That is fine too. Well, sort of. We have been blessed with back up resources (which, when the water comes, we have to fill EVERY bottle/Jerry can/barrel we have!! so it’s not the end of the world. And I guess anticipating the possibility of such things helps! But, admittedly, it would be nice to have this need readily available, as going to the toilet, showering and brushing our teeth takes serious effort. We just have to pray that continuous flow will be our portion.
On Friday, we were also introduced to our partners from African Evangelistic Enterprise (A.E.E.), the organisation we will be working with. During the brief meeting, they informed us of what the weeks ahead had in store for us, and what they expected of us. The talk got me excited and also anticipating the week ahead. We start on Monday!
The Evenings in Kacyiru, Kigali.
In order to get us all interacting with each other, Wednesday and Thursday nights consisted of fun group activities. On Wednesday we played games. It was a lot of fun, and I got really competitive to the point of tickling someone out the chair in musical chairs and even breaking a chair (opps!) The games really got everyone together, and talking to people they possibly didn’t get a chance to talk to before. On Thursday, we had a talent show. Now that was interesting! All the teams did great. We did a gospel talent contest sketch with me as the presenter (I really wanted to incorporate some acting into it) on wheels! Haha, yes I brought my roller skates. It was a little tricky, but it worked. Haha! However, the winning team was the team that are heading to Cyangugu and rightly so! Their talent was a church service. They got the whole crowd involved and gave a beautiful sermon at the end, with the message being that we have been blessed to bless others. And we must give out our help and blessings in order to make room for more blessings from God. Amen. Couldn’t agree more.
To end both nights, we had praise and worship on the balcony. Singing songs in English and Kinyarwandan and being accompanied with the guitar and violin, made it simply beautiful. We were dancing and enjoying ourselves praising the Lord. A great way to end the evenings and our time together in Kacyiru.
To end both nights, we had praise and worship on the balcony. Singing songs in English and Kinyarwandan and being accompanied with the guitar and violin, made it simply beautiful. We were dancing and enjoying ourselves praising the Lord. A great way to end the evenings and our time together in Kacyiru.
Meet the In Country Volunteers.
I would like to introduce you to the 9 In Country Volunteers (ICV) that have dedicated their time, energy and skills to help the people of their country. Us UK volunteers have been allocated ICVs to ensure that we get enriched about Rwanda and its culture. They are all pleasant and lovely, with their great stories, and I would like you to get to know each one briefly, week by week. I’ll like to start with 2 actually- the ICVs that have been placed on the same team as I, to work at AEE Kigali. Each interview was given in English and are the ICV’s own words, which shows that their English is great! Even though they have not been speaking English so predominately as a nation, in fact, its only been 5 years since its surpassed French.
Meet Denyse.Full name: Umurungi Denyse.
Favourite thing to do: Listen to gospel music and praying. Favourite food: Beef. What did you study at university and why: I studied computer science because I like machines and I am interested in how they function. Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: I like to give service to people and I want to learn more about other cultures. Favourite word in English and why: Honest- because of how it sounds and its meaning. Plus I like to be honest! |
Meet Claudine.Full name: Tuyisenge Claudine.
Favourite thing to do: Sing. Favourite food: Chicken and chips. What do you study at university and why: Surveying because I want to improve the land in my local area . Why did you decide to volunteer with Tearfund and ICS: Because I want to improve my English and meet new people, and understand a different culture. As well as do work in the community. Favourite word in English and why: Love-because God is love and you need to love one another. |
Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre.
On our first full day in Rwanda, we went to the Kigali Memorial Centre. Personally, I am glad that this trip was organised very early into the programme, because even though the genocide is of importance and interest, it is not the reason we are here. So, to address it early was a good idea as we were made aware of it and now know the history. From here, we will do our best to help the people push forward into a blessed future.
Opened in 2004 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Rwandan 1994 genocide, the centre had multiple rooms, which included a children’s room, a room on the history of genocides and how and why the Rwandan genocide occurred. I don’t know how to describe the visit honestly. It brushed up on some things I already knew, but it also brought within me anger and frustration that there are people that believe that they superior enough over others to order their deaths. It’s something that is incomprehensible and really upsetting, especially as the fact is that it was always the innocent who were affected.
Regarding the children’s room, this touched me the deepest. They were children. Children. Some couldn’t even talk yet, but, they knew how to smile. The room was plastered with phrases such as, ‘not even the innocent survived’ and ‘you might have been our national heroes’. It is so sad that they were targeted and killed so mercilessly. In the room, there were pictures of many children who were killed, and how they were killed. With each one I read, I got pain. It’s like, why?! Who gives you the right to take a life? Let alone a child’s life. Examples of how they were killed included are being macheted to death in her mother’s arms and being stabbed in the eyes and head. Not only did these people kill children, but they did it in the most despicable, disgusting ways imaginable. This seriously sickens me.
In the other room, the genocides of the Hereros; Holocaust; Balkens; Armenia and Cambodia were highlighted. This was a very insightful room, addressing the issue that this problem is universal and millions around the world have been affected by the consequences genocides bring. I find it so disheartening that such atrocities have occurred and have the capacity of happening again.
In the memorial, there’s a quote that reads:
"He who saves a single life, saves the entire world." Talmond.
This is a powerful quote. We must do all we can as a race to stop those who think that it is in their power to eradicate others. Not just to the extreme lengths of eradicating others, but to belittle, weaken and destroy others- it is not welcomed! Easier said than done, I know. But, with one step, and with changing a single life at a time, you will save the entire world. It starts with one. I pray that what I will be doing out here, with the street children and women in self help groups, is on that path to changing people’s lives in a positive way.
Finally, the room on Rwanda: before, during and after the genocide was a serious eye opener. I mean, I studied the Rwandan genocide previously, but going through that exhibition certainly opened my eyes wider to the situation and made it more heartfelt. It is not for the faint-hearted. Being graphic and intense, it holds no bounds. And why should it? The genocide didn’t. In fact, a quote that stood out for me was that ‘the genocide was instant’. Furthermore, boards stated things such as no Tutsis was exempt, people were chained together and buried alive and, quite frankly, Rwanda had turned into a nation of brutal, sadistic merciless killers and innocent victims overnight. Its horrid to think that women and children were targeted to ensure that a new generation of Tutsis would never emerge.
If world issues, such as genocides interest you, I seriously suggest that you read into it, as it is easy for one to go on a hate rampage against the merciless killers. But, once you delve into it, you’ll see they’re just as weak and powerless as the victims.
(No pictures were allowed to be taken inside the memorial, hence why all the photos are outside).
Opened in 2004 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Rwandan 1994 genocide, the centre had multiple rooms, which included a children’s room, a room on the history of genocides and how and why the Rwandan genocide occurred. I don’t know how to describe the visit honestly. It brushed up on some things I already knew, but it also brought within me anger and frustration that there are people that believe that they superior enough over others to order their deaths. It’s something that is incomprehensible and really upsetting, especially as the fact is that it was always the innocent who were affected.
Regarding the children’s room, this touched me the deepest. They were children. Children. Some couldn’t even talk yet, but, they knew how to smile. The room was plastered with phrases such as, ‘not even the innocent survived’ and ‘you might have been our national heroes’. It is so sad that they were targeted and killed so mercilessly. In the room, there were pictures of many children who were killed, and how they were killed. With each one I read, I got pain. It’s like, why?! Who gives you the right to take a life? Let alone a child’s life. Examples of how they were killed included are being macheted to death in her mother’s arms and being stabbed in the eyes and head. Not only did these people kill children, but they did it in the most despicable, disgusting ways imaginable. This seriously sickens me.
In the other room, the genocides of the Hereros; Holocaust; Balkens; Armenia and Cambodia were highlighted. This was a very insightful room, addressing the issue that this problem is universal and millions around the world have been affected by the consequences genocides bring. I find it so disheartening that such atrocities have occurred and have the capacity of happening again.
In the memorial, there’s a quote that reads:
"He who saves a single life, saves the entire world." Talmond.
This is a powerful quote. We must do all we can as a race to stop those who think that it is in their power to eradicate others. Not just to the extreme lengths of eradicating others, but to belittle, weaken and destroy others- it is not welcomed! Easier said than done, I know. But, with one step, and with changing a single life at a time, you will save the entire world. It starts with one. I pray that what I will be doing out here, with the street children and women in self help groups, is on that path to changing people’s lives in a positive way.
Finally, the room on Rwanda: before, during and after the genocide was a serious eye opener. I mean, I studied the Rwandan genocide previously, but going through that exhibition certainly opened my eyes wider to the situation and made it more heartfelt. It is not for the faint-hearted. Being graphic and intense, it holds no bounds. And why should it? The genocide didn’t. In fact, a quote that stood out for me was that ‘the genocide was instant’. Furthermore, boards stated things such as no Tutsis was exempt, people were chained together and buried alive and, quite frankly, Rwanda had turned into a nation of brutal, sadistic merciless killers and innocent victims overnight. Its horrid to think that women and children were targeted to ensure that a new generation of Tutsis would never emerge.
If world issues, such as genocides interest you, I seriously suggest that you read into it, as it is easy for one to go on a hate rampage against the merciless killers. But, once you delve into it, you’ll see they’re just as weak and powerless as the victims.
(No pictures were allowed to be taken inside the memorial, hence why all the photos are outside).
Classroom sessions.
To prepare us for our various group projects, as part of orientation and welcome to the country, we had to sit through some sessions ran by the in country manager and the in country coordinator. This was to ensure that we fully understood our roles and what was expected from us. Furthermore, as the programme was funded by the UK government, it was of the utmost importance that we knew our boundaries in various aspects of living in Rwanda with Tearfund and ICS. Sessions included culture orientation and language training. As well as setting expectations on community living and working together. I enjoyed the learning the language sessions, as I am adamant on doing well in learning the language, to get the most out my experience here and I know the Rwandese will appreciate it. It is Kinyarwandan, here are some basic words that I know now:
Hello- Mwaramutse
How are you?- Amakuru
Thank you- Murakoze (or, in Swahili- Ahsante Sana (I say this one a lot because its like my name haha!)
Okay- Sawa
What is your name?- Witwa nde
My name is...- Nitwa...
Also, what stood out to me was the class discussion on Rwandan dos and don’ts – these include no wearing flip flops in public. This is because they are usually associated with lounging around in the house and inappropriate for outdoor wear- you won't be taken seriously apparently. Also, plastic bags. The Rwandans hate plastic bags. In fact, it is the first African country to make it illegal to use non-biodegradable plastic bags. This is all part of the effort to put Rwanda on the path of sustainable development. I reckon it has definitely worked, as Kigali is one of the cleanest cities I've ever been to!
Another is don’t talk about tribes, especially in public. It brings up bad memories about the 1994 genocide and you may also end up in jail. Finally, do shake hands with people, not just waive. (This is VERY important!). It will make you look proud and give off the sense that they are dirty and inferior to you. This is because shaking hands is a sign of respect here. You can just use hand sanitiser when they are not looking! Furthermore, we learnt the typical Rwandan greeting, which involves three hugs and then a handshake! This just goes to show that Rwandans are much more personable than the British, we are simplistic hi-five haha!
Hello- Mwaramutse
How are you?- Amakuru
Thank you- Murakoze (or, in Swahili- Ahsante Sana (I say this one a lot because its like my name haha!)
Okay- Sawa
What is your name?- Witwa nde
My name is...- Nitwa...
Also, what stood out to me was the class discussion on Rwandan dos and don’ts – these include no wearing flip flops in public. This is because they are usually associated with lounging around in the house and inappropriate for outdoor wear- you won't be taken seriously apparently. Also, plastic bags. The Rwandans hate plastic bags. In fact, it is the first African country to make it illegal to use non-biodegradable plastic bags. This is all part of the effort to put Rwanda on the path of sustainable development. I reckon it has definitely worked, as Kigali is one of the cleanest cities I've ever been to!
Another is don’t talk about tribes, especially in public. It brings up bad memories about the 1994 genocide and you may also end up in jail. Finally, do shake hands with people, not just waive. (This is VERY important!). It will make you look proud and give off the sense that they are dirty and inferior to you. This is because shaking hands is a sign of respect here. You can just use hand sanitiser when they are not looking! Furthermore, we learnt the typical Rwandan greeting, which involves three hugs and then a handshake! This just goes to show that Rwandans are much more personable than the British, we are simplistic hi-five haha!
The journey to Kigali.
Best to start here right?! Well, thank God we reached safe. The journey totaled roughly 20 hours. It consisted of 2 flights, with a layover in Addis Ababa for around 4 hours and then a flight to Kigali, but first stopping in Uganda to let passengers off and to refill. One of the team members thought he was one of those passengers whose destination was Uganda, as he got off the plane!!! He went to customs and everything. If it wasn't for the person at desk who looked at his passport thoroughly, he would have left the airport thinking he was in Kigali! Haha. Luckily, his error was quickly realised (well, after queuing for like 10 minutes he said) and he ran back to the plane thinking it was going to take off without him! Haha. Oh bless you David! One of a kind.
It was raining in Addis Ababa and I got told that’s how it’s going to be in Kigali for a long time! Ahhh man! Did I pack the right stuff? Guess I got to make it work with what I got. Now, the journey from Uganda was meant to last only 35 minutes, however due to ground traffic, we had to circle around in the sky for a little over an hour. That was fine, even the turbulence was okay but we were eager to get there and start the experience.
Finally we reached Kigali and I was overfilled with excitement! I’m finally back in Africa- and will be here for 2 and a half months!! At the baggage claim, my luggage was the first to come out, out of everyone! Now I’m usually the one left waiting for their luggage or going to customer services saying my bag was not on the belt. We had to wait around 15 minutes for the next Rwandan team member’s luggage to arrive. Now the trick. Pray over your luggage. I did that as I said goodbye to them in Heathrow (yes I say goodbye to things- like houses after spending a long time there haha). I prayed they made their way safe to Kigali and not end up in China or just not with the others. Thank God, not only did it work, but God showed me His work as clear as day by bringing them out first.
We were greeted at the airport by the Rwandan Tearfund team. All with big smiles, happy for our arrival. We took pictures and made our way to the Tearfund guesthouse in Kacyiru.
The rest of the day was pretty much spent relaxing and adjusting to the change of scene. Additionally, we also met the in country volunteers as they came from their homes all over Rwanda in their dribs and drabs. It was a lovely start to the placement and a nice welcome to Tearfund/ICS in Kigali. We will be staying at the guesthouse until Friday, as then we will be moving to our different cities and into our permanent residence!
It was raining in Addis Ababa and I got told that’s how it’s going to be in Kigali for a long time! Ahhh man! Did I pack the right stuff? Guess I got to make it work with what I got. Now, the journey from Uganda was meant to last only 35 minutes, however due to ground traffic, we had to circle around in the sky for a little over an hour. That was fine, even the turbulence was okay but we were eager to get there and start the experience.
Finally we reached Kigali and I was overfilled with excitement! I’m finally back in Africa- and will be here for 2 and a half months!! At the baggage claim, my luggage was the first to come out, out of everyone! Now I’m usually the one left waiting for their luggage or going to customer services saying my bag was not on the belt. We had to wait around 15 minutes for the next Rwandan team member’s luggage to arrive. Now the trick. Pray over your luggage. I did that as I said goodbye to them in Heathrow (yes I say goodbye to things- like houses after spending a long time there haha). I prayed they made their way safe to Kigali and not end up in China or just not with the others. Thank God, not only did it work, but God showed me His work as clear as day by bringing them out first.
We were greeted at the airport by the Rwandan Tearfund team. All with big smiles, happy for our arrival. We took pictures and made our way to the Tearfund guesthouse in Kacyiru.
The rest of the day was pretty much spent relaxing and adjusting to the change of scene. Additionally, we also met the in country volunteers as they came from their homes all over Rwanda in their dribs and drabs. It was a lovely start to the placement and a nice welcome to Tearfund/ICS in Kigali. We will be staying at the guesthouse until Friday, as then we will be moving to our different cities and into our permanent residence!
So...I'm off to Rwanda!
So here it is! The first obligatory pre-travel post! Haha! As the title of it suggests-I am off to Rwanda! In less than 48 hours, I will be on that plane with 13 fellow God-fearing eager beavers, keen on getting to Africa to help the residents of Rwanda improve their lives and so much more.
I have been blessed with this magnificent opportunity from the amazing charity called 'Tearfund'. Now, Tearfund is a Christian charity that works in over 50 countries around the world in the fight against poverty. Under this volunteering scheme, run by the UK's International Citizen Service, I will be on placement in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda for 10 weeks. Check map (right) for Rwanda's location in Africa. I will be working with an organisation called African Evangelistic Enterprise (AEE), and will be volunteering primarily with them in catch-up schools for street children; women in self help groups; and in mobile clinics. As of this moment, I do not know the intricate details of the various projects that I will be embarking on- everything is always subject to change. I guess, it's not going to be until I am out there and having begun working on projects, that I would be able to tell you lovely readers exactly what I am doing. Your guess is as good as mine right now haha! Check out my dedicated page on Tearfund and read about what makes them so special and seriously awesome. I decided to do a blog because it's a great way to raise awareness and its the perfect chance for me to share my experiences of Rwanda in words and pictures as I go. Additionally, it's to keep my family and friends up to date on my trip, provide a record for myself and scratch my writing itch. You see, I already write a blog- a life and style one- and going to Rwanda means that that blog will be on hiatus for a while. Click on the 'more' tab for the link to it, where you can see predominately fashion posts, as that is another thing I have a passion for! I have passion for a lot of things haha! Admittedly, I do wonder how I am going to get back into the swing of posting on that blog when it seems so frivolous compared to the work that I will be doing in Rwanda. Okay, so this is a bit of a disclaimer- I do not know how often I am going to be able to post. I will do my utmost do post as often as possible as I'm sure there will be something to let you know. So sorry in advance if there is a serious lack of post and one massive long catch up one, which I pray will not be the case (but if it is, I suggest read it in chunks haha). Regarding the name chosen for my blog- Shanté's Scenechange-I decided to name it this because; A. It's my name and this is my personal journey, and B. I am indeed having a change of scene- a massive change of scene for 10 whole weeks! I am going to be going from living in one of the world's most expensive cities (London) to living on rice and beans (so I've been told) in a 'developing' Central and East African country- and I am thoroughly looking forward to! Understandably it's a bit of a tongue twister, but I like keeping things in the family- the 'S' family! (see my other blog for example). Haha! So, welcome to 'Shanté's Scenechange' and I do hope you stick around and enjoy this adventure with me. Stay blessed. Sx |
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