Greetings from The continent of Africa! Unbelievably so, we are already at the half point of our professional journeys throughout Capetown, Durban, and soon coming, Johannesburg. Since we last updated you, We have seen and learned quite a bit about the Y movement here.
Lisa and Paul at Anchor House Durban Y
Last week while in Cape Town, we were honored to meet youth from throughout the nation of South Africa at the National Youth Council meetings. One of the most astonishing and inspiring pieces on this journey has been to witness such authentic youth leadership from within the Y movement. Whether a volunteer, a participant, or a staff, youth actively participate in the governance and vision of their organization. Not only were we encouraged by their leadership, but we had the opportunity to share meals and fellowship after hours and see how the Y impacted them on the various levels in their lives.
Youth of National Youth Council Meeting
Following the National Youth Council meetings, we traveled throughout the Cape Town area with board leadership and staff from the Cape Town Y. We were able to see so many YMCA landmarks, from the breathtaking property of Little Stream, to the Cape Flats YMCA, and the student Y at the University of Cape Town (one of the most respected educational institutions in all of Africa).
With so many fond memories and smiles, Saturday we departed Cape Town and headed to Durban to start our energizing journey of connecting with our partner YMCA. Just a brief 2 hour flight from Cape Town lies Durban-a bustling city on the Indian Ocean where a melting pot of cultures come together, primarily Zulu, Indian, English, Dutch, and people of blended ethnicities. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by Meryl (wife of Ian, CEO of Durban Y), and spent the weekend getting to know community members here in Durban. Ian generously invited us to dinner and to his church where we were able hear him preach and lead his congregation.
Buddies!! Sthe and Benjamin
Over these last few days, we were welcomed one by one by our buddies and even shared some of the buddy scrapbooks with them. First Sanele, then a wonderful afternoon with Paul catching up. And this morning we were surprised by a very special visit from Bongiwe (a brand new mother), and Sthe, whose gentle nature was so welcoming to us both. Thanks to the Skype opportunities created with the Y-GEO kit, the year plus "buddy" bond created fertile ground for face-to-face instant connection. In addition, today we had the chance to sit-in on two different computer literacy courses with Sanele, and see the inner workings of daily life here at the Durban Y. Thanks to a great conversation with Ceaseway (new programmer manager), we received the chance to address programming, monitoring, and outcomes in youth justice and youth intervention programs.
Lisa, Paul, and Benjamin at Indian Ocean
A special thanks to those of you that were able to join our Skype today! We understand the busy lives you all lead in the Y, and we were greatly encouraged and inspired to have the chance to see and hear so many supporting faces and voices.
Until soon, take care!
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