Welcome, Awkwaaba!
(The following post is a written reflection I wrote one night during my time in Kumasi, Ghana. These writings are in the present tense to reflect my thoughts during that time.)
I’m at the halfway point of my trip and I figured now is a better time than ever to write about my experience thus far, what I’ve learned about myself and this beautiful county.
First, I’m here to reach a career milestone – my first international consulting opportunity. I’m working with an organization that provides residential and restorative services for previously exploited children in Ghana. I first heard of this organization during my time at Boston University and somehow, from that class back in 2022 to where I am in 2023, is confirmation that I'm walking in my calling.
So fast forward to where I am.. this 21st night of September at their residential care center. Today especially, I had the chance to tour the care center, from their facilities to the pineapple plantations, crafting spaces for sewing and making black soap, to the piggeries. I’m truly blown away by the way the land is used so intentionally, not just to provide a safe haven for these previously exploited children, but to provide them with skills so that one day they have the means to provide for themselves. Just reflecting on that fact alone makes me feel such extreme gratitude for organizations like this that do such amazing work, not just at the funding level but the staff who dedicate their days to ensuring that this haven can function.
Training itself was an amazing experience. I spent one day giving a crash course in monitoring and evaluation: framing the key concepts of M&E, why this organization is implementing an M&E plan, and the basics of data quality assurance and reporting measures. Then throughout the week I worked with departments individually reviewing measurement tools, collecting feedback, and amending documents as needed. I’ve received such positive feedback throughout the week about how practical the materials and concepts were (especially some of the activities I had built in), the training structure, and how this plan will be an asset to the team and their work. I certainly didn’t do this alone and I couldn’t have done any of this without the support and expertise of my colleagues. I’m sure that this will be the first of many projects to come.
I was told within my first few days here that I can interact with the children if I’d like to. I’m here to teach staff but if I find the time, it’s welcomed. They won’t approach me first though, one because I’m a stranger, but also, because they don’t want to become too attached to visitors. So many people come and go over the years and keeping distance may be a means of self-preservation, which I wholeheartedly understand. Though, hearing that shattered me a bit on the inside, I can only fathom what it must feel to be in an environment where many people don’t stick around long.
They (the children) come by every day bringing breakfast, lunch, and dinner to the residence where I’m staying – smiling, exchanging formal greetings – most are rather soft spoken but still engaging. I make sure to introduce myself, ask their name, and thank them for stopping by. My face is rather expressive, so sometimes I turn that up a notch showing such extreme excitement once they arrive so they can giggle at me. Whatever makes them smile, whatever makes them feel appreciated.
Something must be said though regarding just being an African American in Africa for the first time. On my flight from London to Accra there were so many people who looked like me in the airport terminal that it took me by surprise when I realized it. I had to wrap my head around the fact that I was surrounded by my own people, exclusively, for the first time in my life. That sentiment has stayed throughout my time here so far. Many people I have encountered think I’m Ghanaian (until I speak English lol) or ask if I’m of Jamaican descent. I feel like I should take a 23&Me test when I come back home just to receive some confirmation of my linage. I’m telling you; this is an experience I’ve never had before and truthfully this may be the safest I’ve felt in a while. Although I’m here for business, this has started to feel more like a homecoming.
Any ways, I’m here in Ghana on this evening reflecting on this experience and what led me here. The professional growth that has occurred, feeling refreshed spiritually and renewed, and quite frankly, the reminder that I’m truly THAT GIRL (by God’s grace). It’s really up from here.
I'm way overdue on updating you all on my life since completing my program (and what I do now). Let me know if you're interested in catching up! In the meantime, thanks for reading. :)
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