Chester Students Prepare for their African Adventure!

On 16th February 2011, myself and one of my tutors, Andy Lyon, met with this year’s prospective EDGE of AFRICA volunteers to answer any questions they may have and put their minds at ease about what to expect from their African adventure.

Andy started by introducing us both and speaking about the academic side of their trip and the sessions that the university are delivering in March to prepare them for their trip. During these sessions, the students will learn about how to behave within a new country and culture, and how to stay safe while they’re away, as well as getting information on the assessments they will be required to complete. Andy also spoke about what Knysna, and particularly areas such as The Heads and the marina, are like.

After this I was asked to tell the students about my experience with EDGE of AFRICA. I spoke about the structure of my placement (two days per week in the Knysna Tourism office, a day and a half per week on the Khayalethu eco-trail with the Rastafarians, and a two half-days per week in Judah Square edu-centre), our Cape Town orientation in the first week of our visit, and our return to Cape Town once our placements were over. I then gave the students the opportunity to ask me anything they felt they needed to know:

• How safe is Knysna? Can we take pictures openly and feel safe having our cameras out? Knysna is a relatively safe place. Remain as vigilant as you would if you were in this situation at home, and never forget that you are in a third-world country. Take pictures as you would normally but do not walk around with your camera in your hand or around your wrist. One of the most important things to remember is, don’t become complacent with the relative safety of Knysna town centre and assume that everywhere is the same, particularly if you are taking a trip to Cape Town.
  

  Cape Town
• How much money did you spend? It’s all relative to the kind of person you are. Our group went out at night quite a lot and at the time that we were there, there was no internet connection in the volunteer house, so we were also paying to use the internet cafe. I took around £700 and was sent an extra £150-200 by my parents while I was there.
• Was your presence well received in the township? Yes, the people who live in the township are so happy to have you there, and we didn’t experience any animosity at all from them.
• Was there a language barrier? The only language barrier we experienced was with some of the younger children. All the practitioners and teachers/workers etc in the township speak very good English. Every Friday afternoon, we had a Xhosa lesson with Joash, which was helpful in finding out certain words and phrases we could use around the children to keep them under control.
  

  Highest Bridge Bungee Jump in the World
• What was the weather like? Although the time of year is technically going into the African winter, their winter is nothing at all like our winter. The days are mainly warm enough to wear a t-shirt, but you should take ‘hoodies’ etc for in the evening.
• What footwear did you wear on placement? It all depends on your placement. In the preschools and on most other placements, flip flops are okay. However, if your placement involved outdoor work, such as Build Our School or the Khayalethu Eco-trail, trainers or boots would be more appropriate.
• Are there bank charges for drawing money out? There wasn’t with my bank, but I think some banks do have a small fee. An important thing to remember is to ring your bank and notify them that you intend on leaving the country and how long you’re going for, as some banks will block your account if there’s unexpected activity on your card.
  

  Plettenberg Bay Beach
• What was the general vibe you got of Knysna and of being in Africa? I personally thought that it started to feel like I lived there. The volunteer house is very homely, and Knysna itself is very welcoming. At first, working in the township is a culture shock, and nothing can really prepare you for that, but you soon fit in and start to feel like part of a team.
• What is there to do at night? The EDGE of AFRICA staff has a weekly programme of activities for in the evenings. You’ll have a braai once a week, which is like a BBQ and is more of a social event than a meal, and there’s also a quiz night, a games night, a DVD night, and a lecture night, all once a week. Knysna also has a decent variety of bars and clubs for at the weekend.
• Is there a difference between what you can wear in the town centre and what you can wear in the township? Yes, you must make sure you’re covered up when you go into the township, but you can pretty much dress how you would here in summer when you’re in the town centre.
• Other points to consider: Take an unlocked mobile phone with you to save you the time and money of buying one once you get there, as EDGE of AFRICA will provide you with a SIM card when you get there. Go on as many excursions as you can and make the most of your time there. Do as much of your assignment work as you possibly can before you go, so you have as much free time as possible when you’re there. Dress conservatively when going into the township and be respectful of the culture differences.

By Emma Hitchen - 2010 EDGE of AFRICA Volunteer and EDGE of AFRICA Rep based in the UK

EDGE of AFRICA Best of 2010

You want to go where?...Don't worry, you're in good hands!

You want to go where?

4 parents share their views on their daughter’s travels to Knysna, South Africa

"I had grave misgivings about my only daughter spending several weeks in South Africa; the country itself had a reputation for crime and was not a place I would have chosen for her placement. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the organizational skills of the placement leaders and the attention to detail shown. Pardon the cliché, she left as a child and returned an adult, Emma has far more empathy with the orphans and disadvantaged of that remarkable country than she would otherwise have had. I would not hesitate in recommending the experience to other parents of perspective volunteers as this is undoubtedly the opportunity of a lifetime and not to be dismissed lightly. She was a very special daughter and remains so, but is a little more worldly wise for the experience." Father of Emma Hitchen, 2010 EDGE of AFRICA Work Placement student from Chester University, UK

“The accommodation is clean, their meals are provided, there are rules they must keep to and the placement is well organized. She has only good things to say about Roger and Dayne and all the other people involved with Edge of Africa. You only have to look at the website to see it is a well run organization and I have got to say I would have no qualms at all about my daughter going back to Knysna. I would ensure that in her luggage this time there are plenty of items for these children to use. So if your child is asking to go to Knysna let them go because they will come back with some fantastic memories but they will also have taken part in the African culture and celebrations as well as making some lasting friendships. One friendship she made has just resulted in a wedding invitation!” Mother of Emma Hitchen 2010 Work Placement student to Knysna from Chester University, UK

“Your child like mine, depending on what they choose to do on their time off there will see things that most of us only dream of doing. Things like walking with and feeding the elephants, visiting protected game areas where they can see anything from a snake to an owl, lying in the sand on a beach made in heaven that lies just behind their house, travelling to other parts and towns surrounding them, taking part in the African culture and celebrations, visiting the townships where life is grueling, sad and poor, where they can give of their hearts and help these children. Depending on what area they are going to work in they can give of themselves, to teach like my daughter did. Teach things like language, knowledge of their own home, which ours is Canada, teach sports to the kids, crafts, hygiene, help in the orphanages with the smaller children and most of all show them love, and care which many of these children know nothing of. In return, they receive self-satisfaction, growth as a person, knowledge of what the word poor really means, an understanding of another culture, religions, languages, barriers, and make new friendships that they will seal during their stay there and hold close to their hearts for a lifetime.

My daughter is now planning her third return to Africa this spring since her first adventure, with a longer stay in the progress this time. She has, I’m sure, many memories, which I haven’t even heard of yet in the back of her mind. They have already started their lists of things to take back with them this time for the kids. Things like the simple everyday things we take for granted, like sneakers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and clothes. Money is of no value to these children unless it is given to EDGE of AFRICA team, to distribute to the centre in a meaningful and sustainable way.

I would, as a very concerned parent would recommend this trip to any young volunteer that is looking for a fulfilling thing to do in their lives. To the parents I would say help your child to accomplish this dream, with the thought that the staff at the EDGE of AFRICA will care for your child like he or she is there own. Your child will return to you changed yes, but in every positive way. “

Madonna Goodyear - Mother of Sioban Goodyear, EDGE of AFRICA Community Volunteer 2009 & 2010 from Canada

“My daughter Lynn and I quickly realized that EDGE of AFRICA offered all of what she was looking for in her African experience. As she was only 17, my main concern was for her safety and support, as well as for the chance to achieve her dreams and live and work amongst the people and animals of South Africa. From the initial contact with Dayne and Roger, all our questions and worries were dealt with in a professional and friendly manner .Lynn’s projects were carefully selected to meet her needs, and her itinerary planned. As a parent I felt it was good that she could do several different projects all under the care of the one organization. From day one, emails flew back and fore between Lynn and Dayne developing their friendship and giving Lynn and insight in to what was ahead. From the day she arrived, until now, a year on, EDGE of AFRICA has been a part of her life. It has totally changed her outlook on life, inspired her to study for her future and completely widened her horizons. Their continuing support will not only always maintain her link with South Africa but I have no doubt will also hasten her return and am sure EDGE of AFRICA will play a large part in many more adventures for Lynn.

Glenys Munro - Mother of Lynn Munro, EDGE of AFRICA Wildlife & Conservation Volunteer 2009 from Scotland

Final thought from Madonna Goodyear of Canada…

“From Africa, I received back from this adventure a daughter whose greatest qualities have grown. One who has learned threw her experience the real meaning of poverty. A girl who has grown beyond every possible dream I could have ever had for her. A girl whose dreams have reached places that I have never seen coming. A young person whose adventure in Africa has had their mind opened to many possibilities in life and the things she wishes to accomplish in the future. A person who has seen the true meaning of sharing, giving and loving until it truly hurts. ‘A person who has left their heart in Africa.’ I am proud of my daughter for all she has done there to help these kids both in 2009, and 2010 and again this coming spring 2011. “

Chester University’s ‘Jamie-Lee Hassett’ talks about her time with EDGE of AFRICA

Introduction and Background:

My name is Jamie-Lee Hassett and I am student going into my 3rd year at the University of Chester, studying Drama and Theatre. As part of my degree last year, I experienced 6 weeks of voluntary Work Based Learning during April, May and June 2010 in Knysna, South Africa. I volunteered for an organisation called EDGE of AFRICA.

EDGE of AFRICA is committed to ethical volunteering and responsible travelling - providing volunteer and internship placements in South Africa for gap years, career breaks, university internships, school groups and corporate team building projects. The organization comfortably accommodates to all ages, genders, races and religions.

The organisation’s aim is to make a direct positive impact on the local community and environment, while enjoying first hand exposure to the colourful heritage, cultures and traditions, plus all the sights and activities this beautiful country has to offer. EDGE of AFRICA guarantees a life changing experience - in a safe, malaria-free, African environment.

The organisation approaches their projects with a mission: to create sustainable solutions through team work and with integrity.

Sinethemba Street Kids Project:

Whilst volunteering for EDGE of AFRICA I was working locally at two community centres: MAD about ART and Sinethemba.

Sinethemba is a community centre for homeless and disadvantaged kids and youth between the ages of 4 and 25. In the safe and picturesque township of Kayalethu in South Africa, this project aims to give these kids another chance in life!

Two volunteers from Canada, Sioban Goodyear and Melissa Jackson, travelled to Knysna last year with the EDGE of AFRICA. This year they returned again. On both trips they had the immense pleasure of also volunteering with the Sinethemba Youth Development Centre with me (Sinethemba, being just one of the many EDGE of AFRICA initiated programs).

Sinethemba is an outreach program for children of all ages; each one coming throughSinethemba's doors with a unique personality and a different story. However, with that said, most of Sinethemba’s children come from the streets, broken homes, and many other harsh and painful circumstances.

Sinethemba, as a word translates as "We have Hope", and Hope is something that you undoubtedly see in the face of every one of its children. When seeing the circumstances and situations that most of these children come from, and then witnessing how full of life and strong they are, you can do nothing but watch in complete awe of these truly amazing young people. The children and staff of Sinethemba welcomed us, outsiders into their hearts and family with open arms. They taught us, among many things, that unconditional love comes in all shapes and sizes and that "hope" is one thing that none of us, young or old can live without. Knysna, the beautiful little town and its precious people will always be home to me and the other volunteers.

MAD About Art (part of the Inspiring EDGE Community Combination Project):

MAD about ART is a charity that exists in the township of ‘Nekkies’ to unite children around the world in understanding and fighting HIV & AIDS through art and education. They provide a unique mix of innovative arts-based education and narrative therapy, designed to increase children's knowledge of HIV & AIDS and create more open communication as well as reduce risk-taking behaviour by increasing self-esteem and self-advocacy. Ultimately the aim is to reduce new HIV infections in children and young people.

Whilst I was out there volunteering I worked with 2 other volunteers putting together a short drama, music and dance performance for an event.

There were 3 of us volunteered at this centre including myself, Chelsea Shorrock and Emma Russell, and our job was to teach drama, music and dance to children aged 10-14 who attend the centre, which is dedicated to HIV awareness and therapy. The moment I stepped in the building I knew I was somewhere special. The children had an overwhelming enthusiasm and incredible kindness. I had 3 weeks to create a performance with the children which they would perform at an event at the end of my trip. Each child came from a really challenging background, experiencing things on a day to day basis that I’ve never even come close to back home. Despite this, they gave the performance everything they had. At the event, watching them perform their piece, named “When I grow up I want to be...” was a moment I will never forget.

In that moment the children showed that their dreams should never be forgotten. I came home with an inevitable need to go back, and I am already planning my return in June 2011.

EDGE in Talent 2010:

The talent competition "EDGE on Talent" was an event which took place in Knysna as a result of two other volunteers, Ennis McAvera and Sarah Desjardins (Events Management students at the University of Chester). The only proposal they were given for organising an event was the urge to bring together the townships with the local people of the town and to encourage unity between the two. They had only 2 weeks to organise an event, in an estranged town to them, with no contacts, and no budget whatsoever.

What seemed near impossible to them, became the most memorable day of all of our lives. Thanks to the extremely kind donations and support from the local businesses and all the volunteers, their hard work paid off. The volunteers took advantage of the many talents they came across at the different township schools and youth centres, and showcased singers, dancers, drama acts and poets in the centre of town by putting on the "EDGE on Talent" event. The town was brought to life that day by the miraculous kids, releasing every type of emotion in the audience and even the passers by... as well as giving the kids a fun day out, with many prizes, give always and activities for them to do.

Knowing that they were the organisers of this amazing day, gave them an indescribable feeling of pride for the kids and knowing that they had left a lasting mark in Knysna - in particular with talk of it becoming an annual event. The volunteer experience has been invaluable, with not only life experience, but invaluable memories and unforgettable precious relationships.

Kadiki Kids Project:

Louise Charmley and Laura Holden, two other volunteers from Chester University were working on a project called Kadiki Kids, volunteering within pre-schools. They worked within two separate pre-schools, which were both amazing and such a unique experience. The children were 0 – 7 years of age and were such a true inspiration.

Over the period of 4 weeks, they planned various literacy and numeracy activities for the older children. The children thrived from this experience and developed rapidly, which was amazing to witness. Educational resources were bought with fund raising money that the girls had been so lucky enough to bring over to South Africa. As you can imagine, when the children were given the opportunity to play with new toys such as, skipping ropes, balls, cars, paints, jigsaws etc, they were extremely grateful. The whole project was a life changing experience for every volunteer involved, bringing home wonderful memories from such a beautiful place.

Tourism Internship (Work Experience South Africa - WESA Program):

Other projects included volunteers spending 2 days a week working at Knysna Tourism, and the remainder of the week split between spending time on the Khayalethu Eco-Trail project in the Rastafarian community of Judah Square, and the Judah Square edu-centre working with children aged 7 months to 7 years.

This experience was invaluable to the volunteers for their future, as they got to experience both what it was like to work in the tourism industry, and what it was like to work in the field of international aid and development. As a result of this one volunteer has now decided that her future career path will be as an international aid/development worker, which will entail working with similar communities to the one in Judah Square to help them achieve a better way of life. The volunteers on this project also felt that as though they had returned home with a completely changed outlook on life, and a greater sense of gratitude for what they have.

The people the volunteers were working with in Judah Square gained a substantial amount from their time there. Along with one of the other volunteers, Emma Hitchen putting together a tourism development plan, which will help them to transform their current eco-trail project into a tourist destination, thus, helping them to create a sustainable income for themselves. The children of the Judah Square edu-centre benefited from the students’ visit, as they also intend to keep a close connection to them, sending money over to help them in whichever way they can, and keeping up to date with any projects that are going on there helping the causes from home.

Hospitality & Tourism Internship (Work Experience South Africa - WESA Program):

Another student, Abi Lewis, who also volunteered for EDGE of AFRICA completed a 4 week tourism placement in Knysna, aspects included working in a 4* star hotel, creating an eco trail development plan for a Rastafarian community, to a preschool in the township. On starting the placements she was very apprehensive of what to expect, only knowing she wanted to help and learn in whatever way possible, without actually being aware of what this entailed.

On deciding to volunteer in South Africa Abi just hoped she could make a difference in any way possible.

During the time here the volunteer met so many people in situations which she could only imagine to have gone through - was at sometimes difficult, however they showed to her the real meaning of happiness in people, and what is actually important in life. What shocked the volunteer the most was their willingness to learn and how enthusiastic the people were. Abi realised that EDGE of AFRICA’S volunteer projects were truly inspirational and helped the communities in Knysna in a great way.

Summary:

Since being away and having this experience the volunteers have learnt a lot about themselves; I feel this is to do with the amazing people we all met whilst there, from those in placements, volunteers we met and the EDGE of AFRICA staff. They all inspired me in many ways, and allowed me to have an invaluable and unforgettable experience which I can never thank them enough for.

Volunteering for EDGE of AFRICA gave me, and the other volunteers, the opportunity to learn more about the extraordinary work that takes place within the town and townships, allowing me the chance to be involved with and support this inspirational cause.

I enjoyed every single minute I had over in Knysna and decided that 6 weeks was not long enough for me, so have decided to go back in June 2011 for a year, volunteering again!

Thank you to everyone that joined me and helped me with this experience!

Jamie-Lee Hassett

April/May 2010

Chester University, England

EDGE of AFRICA May 2010 Volunteer Newsletter

New Volunteer House:

EDGE of AFRICA volunteers are now housed in a beautiful spacious wooden house which can accommodate up to 20 volunteers. The house is situated in a lovely area on the edge of Knysna – close to all the necessary amenities with stunning mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Volunteers have all they could ask for with comfortable dorm style bedrooms; communal kitchen and livingroom area; work space; outside decks; braai area; and garden. The house is also equipped with TV, radio/CD player & internet access.

Chester University Invasion:

During May 2010 Knysna was buzzing with the presence of 16 University Students from the University ofChester in the U.K.

These University Students contributed to various EDGE of AFRICA initiatives during their time here and their different areas of expertise were an asset to our projects.

The projects they took part in included developing the tourism aspect of our Khayalethu Eco-trail project;event planning; teaching drama & dance as part of our Inspiring EDGE project; teaching in local pre-schools as part of our Kadiki Kids project; and taking part in our Big 5 and Predator Sanctuary projects.

Thank you to all the Chester students for all your hard work and enthusiasm!!

For more information on volunteering as part of University group please contact info@edgeofafrica.com or visit our website www.EDGEofAFRICA.com

EDGE on TALENT 2010:

Two of the Chester students who are completing a degree in Events Management organised a very successful event in Knysna called ‘EDGE on Talent’.

The purpose of this event was to encourage the understanding and recognition of EDGE of AFRICA’s projects and the organisations that we work closely with.

The event included a special guest performance from a local musician as well as numerous impressive dance performances, songs, dances and art work from various local schools and youth centres.

This event provided an opportunity for the wider community to learn more about the extraordinary work that takes place within the town and townships of Knysna and allowed them the chance to be involved with and support this inspirational cause.

EDGE of AFRICA’s ethos has always been to raise awareness of the REAL situation in Africa by establishing and supporting ethical projects and I think it’s safe to say that this extremely successful awareness event has left that message forever imprinted in the minds of the Knysna community!

Soccer Clinics:

Local boys Rushaad and Cheslin are pursuing a life long ambition of running their own soccer clinics for people in the Knysna area. Rushaad and Cheslin have always been soccer crazy and in 2009 had the privilege of taking part in the Homeless World Cup which involved 2 months of intense training in Cape Town and took them on a journey to Italy - an extremely exciting adventure for them!

Now thanks to a generous donation of soccer equipment from Nathalie Van Erkelens (an EDGE of AFRICA volunteer from the Netherlands) and with the backing of EDGE of AFRICA, Rushaad and Cheslin after years of dreaming are finally able to begin running their own clinics.

The strength and ambition of these two young men is an inspiration to all and we are confident that they will be a great success.

Return Volunteers:

Canadian volunteers Mel & Sioban just can’t get enough of EDGE of AFRICA’s Sinethemba Street Kids project! After taking part in this project in 2009, in May this year they came back for more! During their time here they provided much appreciated assistance with the running of Sinethemba Youth Development Centre as well as producing some excellent literacy and mathematics workshops to help improve the education of the children of Sinethemba along with other children in the community.

Thank you Mel & Sioban for all your hard work and dedication...we look forward to seeing you next year!

Staff News:

May 2010 saw an addition to the EOA team. Irish volunteer Eavanna Maloney who had been volunteering as part of our HIV & TB Awareness project decided she wouldn’t be leaving the country after all!

Eavanna has been working hard developing our medical projects and coordinating other medical volunteers.

Eavanna is a registered nurse in Ireland and her skills and knowledge have proven to be an asset to our medical based projects.

Keep up the good work Eavanna!

For more information on our medical projects please contact info@edgeofafrica.com or visit our website www.EDGEofAFRICA.com

Everything Elephant Project:

This year EDGE of AFRICA’s Everything Elephant project has seen a few changes – don’t worry it’s still ELEPHANTS, ELEPHANTS and MORE ELEPHANTS!

The Everything Elephant project now incorporates a mobile elephant research and education element. Our aim is to conduct relevant research in various locations between the Garden Route and Addo NP thereby contributing to elephant conservation and management in South Africa as well as giving international volunteers a broad view of the issues surrounding elephant conservation. This project also serves to educate the wider community about elephants and conservation. This will be through elephant workshops which will be run at local schools in conjunction with our existing conservation education workshops.

June 2010 saw the first volunteers to experience the changes to the Everything Elephant project. During their time with us Melanie & Melissa got up close and personal with elephants at a local sanctuary whilst conducting behavioural research; spent time in the Tsitsikamma Indigenous forest and learnt about the plight of the Knysna elephants; and ran an elephant themed workshop at a local pre-school.

For more information on the Everything Elephant project please contact info@edgeofafrica.cm or visit or websitewww.EDGEofAFRICA.com

Volunteer Awards:

Abi L: Most likely to fly all the way to Africa only to use a sunbed & Most adaptable volunteer

Emma H: Most likely to sneak a baby into her bag & Most likely to brighten up a room.

Jamie Lee H: Most likely person to start silly rumours , Most well known voice across the valley & Most enthusiastic volunteer

Chelsea S: Fastest feet in the whole of SA & Sweetest volunteer

Emma R: Most likely to get her friends stuck in a public toilet & Biggest hearted volunteer.

Lou C: Person actually responsible for eating LJ’s birthday cake & Most generous volunteer

Laura H: Most difficult volunteer to feed and Most generous volunteer

Jade M: Most likely to be converted by a charismatic preacher & Most positive outlook on life

Melissa J: Most likely to drink the bar clean on a Friday night & Most lively volunteer

Sioban G: Most likely to stay part of the furniture & Most passionate volunteer

Ennis M: Least aware of her own ability to make people laugh & Most organised volunteer

Sarah D: Most likely to make Joash leave his girlfriend & Most stylish volunteer

Eavanna M: Most likely to open up her own pub in Knysna & Most sympathetic volunteer