Alongside Community

As I sit here at O.R. Tambo International airport, I am filled with that intense feeling you get when you leave home.  After an amazing ten days in Lesotho and South Africa, it’s time to head back to Chicago.  (And a 60 degree difference in temperature! Ouch!)  So much of the last ten days revived feelings, tendencies and even vocabulary words from my time as a volunteer in South Africa.   My long walks up the steep dirt paths of Lesotho brought me back to a time of enchantment and discovery.  Once again, I felt vibrantly alive.  I was home.

Admittingly, we didn't take as many photos during our trip this year as we usually have.  (Don’t worry, we still captured all of those awesome High 5 photos!)  The main reason for this was because, for the first time really, we were really part of the community.  Instead of being outsiders from America, fascinated by the intricacies surrounding us, we were members of the communities we were in. 

We walked alongside friends as we learned of new villages.  We danced alongside Team Lesotho as we celebrated a newfound friendship and partnership.  We sat alongside members of the community as we held our first pitso, (community conversation) in Roma.  We laughed alongside children who found our goofiness contagious.  We drank tea alongside old friends and family as we caught up on life.  We asked questions alongside those we wish to serve.  We were wholly, fully, in community with those we are serving, and what an incredible realization it was for us.

I cannot wait until the days when we are amongst the Maluti mountains once again.  I firmly believe the seeds of hope have not only been planted by Bloom Africa, but they have now been watered.  Our new and passionate volunteers in Lesotho will help cultivate the empowerment and hope that these seeds will provide.  I cannot be more excited about the possibilities that rest along the horizon of the future. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us in our journey and supported us through reading our blog, following us on Facebook and Twitter, or who simply wished us traveling mercies.  You are our fire and we will continue to strive for an empowered Lesotho together.

Ka Khotso, (In Peace)

Andrew

The Village in the Sky

Our last two and a half days were spent in Ramabanta, a village about 45 kms up into the mountains from Roma.  It’s a village high up in the Malutis, overlooking gorgeous mountain peaks and waterfalls below.  We didn't witness one cloud in the sky the entire time we were there.  Only blue skies at day and crystal clear constellations at night graced our views.  We have been to Ramabanta on a number of occasions in years, past, and we had to go back.  Over time, we have developed a love for this very special place.  It’s as if there is nowhere else on Earth as peaceful and beautiful as this secluded area in Lesotho.

 On Thursday morning, we went with Tsili, an employee at the guest lodge and friend of ours, to his home in Thaba Bosiu.  We wanted to see his newly established piggery, where 14 new piglets were recently born.  It was fascinating to learn how small pig farming can produce some serious profit for a family.  After spending some more time at his home, we headed up to Ramabanta.

Ramabanta is such a peaceful place that it is hard not to take advantage of the natural surrounding beauty.  We spent some time fishing that evening in a nearby river, which we unfortunately did not catch anything.  We also enjoyed the cool mountain breezes as we sipped our 5 Roses tea and breathed the fresh mountain air.  But it wasn't all R&R for us while we were there.

Fishing for trout in Ramabanta

We spent a day in the village, meeting as many peoples as we could.  Our friend, Lerato Nkesi, is the eldest daughter of the village chief.  She walked us through the village and helped us understand the community better.  We visited some small farms, piggeries, library, a primary school and even met with the village chief to explain Bloom Africa’s vision.  We also stopped by the newly built medical clinic, and had time to ask the nurses their questions about the health issues facing the community.  We spent an afternoon with the principal of the local primary school, and discussed some ways the school and a Community Learning Center could work together. 

High 5!

An exciting development is also taking place.  Later this afternoon, Lerato will be meeting with the Principal Chief of Ramabanta, who has political and traditional jurisdiction over a wide span of land.  She will be discussing our organization and vision of empowerment for the community in Ramabanta.  These are some of the initial steps in a very promising partnership in the years to come.

Lerato walking us through her village

We will soon be heading to South Africa, where we will be attending a special church service in the morning, as well as meeting some young adults who are interested in developing their own NGOs.  As always, we’ll keep you posted along our journey.

Thanks for your continued support.

Ka Khotso,

William & Andrew

Mokhatlo

Today, we participated in our first pitso, or gathering of the community (mokhatlo), to have a conversation.  This is a common way for a community to learn about what is happening and for them to express their opinions.  Usually, the village chief learns of a requested pitso or requests one himself, and then spreads word to the rest of the community that they are encouraged to attend. 

Since Bloom Africa is very interested in what is happening in the Roma community, we were able to be active participants at a pitso held at Leratong Community Center.  We can’t lie; it was a bit intimidating to be participants in this formal meeting environment.  We simply wanted to make sure we were respectful, appropriate, and that the community would understand our mission as an organization.  It took some time, and some critically thought out questions, before the community truly comprehended Bloom Africa’s purpose here.  We were able to explain that we wish to work in partnership and not provide handouts.  We also made sure that we were clear that we wished to work together to empower people, especially the most vulnerable.  After about 3 hours, the pitso concluded, and the community was happy to learn of our work.  There’s a lot of work ahead of us, but this was a giant step in expanding the awareness for our organization.

In the afternoon, we walked up the mountain and deeper into the village.  It’s always special to visit friends we’ve made over the years.  And we think it’s crucially important to simply spend time with people, build the relationships and trust, and get to know them for simply who they are.  So we climbed the mountain to visit with a family we’ve gotten to know, and just spent time talking.  To learn of the good grades the boys are getting in school is so encouraging, and we relished the opportunity to accompany them on a beautiful afternoon.

In the evening, we headed to Maseru, where we had a braai (BBQ) with Team Lesotho.  This was our way of showing thanks to the amazing team that has done so much for us this week.  Team Lesotho not only helped us with the little things, like translating at the pitso, but organized meetings and made invaluable introductions for us.  We are quickly realizing how important Team Lesotho will be for our success as an organization.  So, we hung out and ate some great food.  We also danced.  A lot.  Like, all night.  And it was amazing.  As we danced under the blanket of stars, catching a few shooting stars throughout the night, we cemented friendships that will last a lifetime.  Thank you Team Lesotho!

We will be heading up to Ramabanta on Thursday morning, where we will continue to spend time with the community and having some important meetings high up in the Maluti mountains.  Just a FYI, we will be without internet until Saturday, so stay tuned for more updates in a couple days.

Stay well,

Andrew & William

Wow!

Well, today was William’s first driving experience in Lesotho.  The good news is that he did well, and thankfully for us, he perfected the Lesotho driving by the end of the night when we really needed it.  Today was a very busy and productive day.

William's first Lesotho driving experience

The day started in Maseru, where we met with Ntate Thabong Lerata, whose jewelry we have been selling on our Etsy shop.  It was great meeting Ntate Lerata and learning his story.  He once worked in the mines in South Africa, but because of its closing, he had to return to Lesotho where there was no work.  In order to support his four children, he began making jewelry and other art to create an income.  He makes many items, from straw hats to painted plates to the beautiful earrings and necklaces.  We are thrilled that our support of him and his work will help his family attain stability and allow him to continue to provide for his children.

This afternoon provided one of the most fruitful meetings we’ve had as an organization.  We had a meeting with the Committee that oversees Leratong Community Center.  The Committee is comprised of 8 community members who have been with Leratong since its founding.  We were able to discuss our partnership, and learn about the recent successes and challenges.  One of the amazing parts of the meeting was the inclusion of Ntate Lesoli.  Ntate Lesoli was once served by Leratong, by means of a scholarships and sponsorship.  He was able to attend and finish school, and has recently graduated with honors in business information technology.  And now, Ntate Lesoli is going to build Leratong its first ever website.  Talk about empowerment!

As soon as our meeting was over, he had to jet over to the National University of Lesotho (NUL) to sign in to our live video Google+ feed.  But, when we got to the University, we learned that it’s internet wasn’t going to cut it.  So, we hopped into the car behind William’s brilliance, and sped back to the Guest House where we are staying.  We ran into the house and asked if we could sign into the internet.  With two minutes to spare, we entered our Google+ Hangout.  We apologize to anyone who was frustrated with our being late, but thanks for going with the flow, which is part of life here.

While we were having our Live feed, Team Lesotho was starting a meeting with NUL students.  Over this past week, Team Lesotho has been spreading the word about a meeting with Bloom Africa, and the chance to ask questions and give input.  And, just as we raced to our Google+ Hangout, we zoomed back to NUL and entered the lecture hall out of breath from running to the classroom.  We were ecstatic to see about 50 students waiting to learn more and get involved with Bloom Africa.  And we think the students were relieved to see that we actually exist. 

Addressing the students 

We quickly started with our presentation, and gave a brief background of ourselves and Bloom Africa.  We then discussed our current vision and focus on empowerment, rather than hand-outs.  We then received some wonderful, critical thinking questions about our work and their role in it.  It was so encouraging to see the student’s though process and willingness to speak up and encourage our work.  And as is common with Bloom Africa events held at NUL, Team Lesotho asked everyone to provide anonymous opinions and suggestions after the meeting.  One reaffirming comment read “I’m feeling so inspired with your organization because it empowers orphans, and that was my concern.”  If we can inspire others to inspire others, empowerment is possible.

Bloom Africa and NUL students

Tomorrow we have a pitso, or community meeting, at Leratong Community Center, the first for us.  We will be there with the village chief and other community members, discussing our role at Leratong and how we can be more effective.  The ongoing dialogue between us and our Basotho partners is providing invaluable communication we’d otherwise be without.  It’s truly wonderful to be here.

Ka Khotso,

William & Andrew

Working Together

Well, right after we posted our blog last night, a huge thunderstorm rolled in.  We quickly jetted back to our rondavel (round hut) that we were staying in to avoid being rained on.  Almost as soon as we entered our room, the rain broke and a massive storm rolled in.  The thunder and lightning was simply awesome.  Because we usually visit Lesotho during their winter, experiencing thunderstorms is a bit of a rarity.  And, as the storm build strength, it knocked out our electricity and we had to light candles in our room for light.  It was a great way to wind out our first night in Lesotho.

We are busy getting our high fives for the Put 5 On It campaign

We started the day with Team Lesotho at 7:15AM so we could visit Manonyane High School.  Manonyane (meaning vultures) High School is in a rural setting, about an hour’s walk from where we are staying in Roma.  Team Lesotho set up our first pen-pal program at this high school, so we went to visit the students and teachers who helped set this up.  The pen-pal program was very popular, and many of the students enjoyed writing their new friends in the United States.  We were able to get a tour of the facility and spend time with the principal who explained to us some of the challenges he faces at his school.  After visiting the school and many of its teachers, we were off with the next part of the day.

Andrew & William addressing over 500 high school students

The rest of our day was spent at the National University of Lesotho.  There, we walked around campus greeting students and professors, introducing ourselves.  In anticipation of our meeting with the students tomorrow evening, we were able to greet some classes and invite them to come and hear more about Bloom Africa tomorrow.  But the highlights of our day were our meetings with two NUL faculty members with collaboration being a main topic of discussion.

Our first meeting was with Ledzadzo Kometsi, a lawyer and law professor at the University.  Ntate Kometsi is helping us draft a constitution so we can become a registered NGO in Lesotho.  We will be also working together to help create a Bloom Africa chapter on campus.  He has helped facilitate workshops on campus on behalf of Bloom, and is very involved in advocating for social issues in Lesotho.  One amazing, exciting, thing he does is walk.  This common way of life in Lesotho has given Ntate Kometsi the vision to use walking as an advocacy tool.  Each month, he orchestrates a two day walk, up the mountains of Lesotho, for a cause.  This past month, his group walked to promote advocacy for environmental and wetlands protection.  What an awesome, mission driven person. 

Our next meeting was with Ntate Maraka, the HIV/AIDS Coordinator at NUL.  Ntate Maraka is responsible for creating and stewarding partnerships with NUL and other organizations and institutions when it comes to HIV/AIDS.  He has conducted fascinating studies and research projects about HIV/AIDS and how it affects NUL.  He works closely with PEPFAR and the Global Fund on HIV/AIDS.  He also expressed his excitement to have a Bloom Africa presence on campus.  In addition to providing his professional expertise and support, he will help us partner with the myriad of other organizations working to combat HIV/AIDS in Lesotho.

Team Lesotho and us with Ntate Maraka

The common theme of today was working together to impact orphans and vulnerable children in the community.  After such a wonderful and insightful day, we decided to go for a run before dinner.  At first we didn’t understand how counter intuitive running for “fun” is in Basotho culture.  As we were jogging down the dirt roads and up the hills during a setting sun, people passing us would laugh and smile.  We must admit, we looked pretty darn goofy running, and insanely out of breath. But it was still a beautiful experience, especially since many of the children in the village recognized us and called out our names.  Tomorrow, we will have the opportunity to spend more time in the community and Leratong Community Center to plan out specific next steps collaboratively.

Khotso,

William & Andrew

The Journey Begins

There is something truly beautiful about being welcomed at an international airport after 24 hours of travel.  And we were lucky enough to be welcomed by two good friends at the O.R. Tambo International Airport when we landed last night, around 10pm local time.  Kristen, a good friend of Andrew’s who lives and works in Joburg, and Mosa, Bloom board member from Lesotho, were both waiting to welcome two tired and straggling travelers.  After a nice night of unwinding after a long day of travel, we hit the hay.

The adventure to Lesotho than began early this morning with the rental of our car for the week.  Because neither of us can drive a manual (we know, we know) we opted for an automatic.  But despite the easier maneuvering, the roads in South Africa still turn you into the most attentive driver on the planet.  Driving on the left side of the road, while sitting on the right side of the car, sure does play games on your brain.  But thankfully, we were able to get accustomed to it quite quickly.

We stopped in Bloemfontein, where Andrew surprised his host family from his volunteer time in South Africa.  It was such a joy to see them and catch up.  After a nice meal, we headed to the Maseru border crossing.  On the way to Lesotho, we saw large, dark and ominous clouds rolling across the koppies and grasslands.  All of a sudden, a massive rain storm hit us.  This was truthfully unlike any rain storm I had ever seen in Africa.  The rain drops were hitting the roof of our car so aggressively, that it sounded like little rocks being pelted at us.  And then, it hit Andrew.  His African name, given to him by his host family, was motlalepula, or “the one who brings the rain.”  He instantly felt like at home. 

When we finally crossed the border “Team Lesotho”, or Bloom Africa’s newest group of young adult volunteers, from Lesotho, greeted us as.  The sun had already been down for an hour or so, and they waited patiently for us to arrive.  It was so wonderful to finally meet them in person.  After a short bit of hanging out, we discussed our busy schedule for tomorrow and the rest of the week.

Our drive to Roma on the pitch black roads was exhilarating.  Perhaps it was the dark turns, and not knowing what was ahead.  Or maybe it was the twinkling of lights from homes in the distance, looking simply like stars in the sky.  We rowed the windows down and took in deep breaths of that uniquely Lesotho air.  Ahh, it’s good to be back.

As we settle in for the night, we wish to thank all of you for your continued support.  Stay tuned for more updates soon.  We can’t wait to work with the community here, and to learn even more ways we can work together to help plant the seeds of hope for the orphans and vulnerable children.

Salang hantle,

Andrew & William 

A Return to Where We Belong

Tomorrow, William and I leave for a land many people are unaware of.  We leave for a land of Mountains, waterfalls, and dirt roads.  We venture to a picturesque landscape, scattered with sheep which seem to just be white dots in the distance.  The constant cooing of the doves and the heckling of the Hadeda birds will greet us each morning.  The smells of burning rubbish.  The sounds of cowbells passing by.  The setting sun over rolling hills and sandstone cliffs.  A nation of beautiful people…awaits us. 

Tomorrow, we leave for Lesotho.

It’s been just about a year since William and I have been back to the land that forever changed us.  So much has happened since that time, both in our own personal lives and the life of Bloom.  So many exciting, wonderful things. 

And returning to the Mountain Kingdom in the Sky adds to the fruitful blessings we’ve endured over the past year.  I am so excited to see old friends, surprise family members, and meet new and inspiring people.  No visit to Lesotho and South Africa is the same.  The plethora of diversity will be abounding, and I look forward to the simplicity and complexity of Africa.  I can’t wait to walk alongside my brothers and sisters again.

Striving towards a life lived through Ubuntu has been a challenge over the years.  But with each visit to southern Africa, I am reminded of the gentle and natural hospitality expressed by my brothers and sisters.  I am eager to hold the hands of those I have not seen for a year.  I am ready to serve, humbly, and learn new and fascinating facets of Basotho culture and life. 

And with every breath of fresh mountain air I will take, you all will be with me.  My family.  My friends.  My colleagues and co-workers.  Our supporters.  And those who wish they could be with us.  As Ubuntu has taught us, we are only who we are and able to do what we do because of all of you.

I thank you, and can’t wait to share more of our travels and experiences with you.

Sala hantle, (stay well)

Andrew    

A Trip That Changed Me

Hello to all!

First and foremost, my name is Nikki Georgeson and I am proud to say that I am an incoming intern at Bloom Africa. I have just recently returned from my first trip to Lesotho and I can confidently say that it has, and will be, one of the most timeless and touching moments I’ve witnessed. When I returned, I viewed the world through a different set of eyes. Being exposed to a different way of life has opened so many new ideas, questions, and goals. Being an international studies major along with a spanish and sociology minor at Wittenberg University, I always dreamed about going on adventures such as this one. However, how I dreamed of it, is nothing like how I experienced it. It was more than I expected.

             The beauty of the trees and the laughter of the people left me memorized. I was more than proud of the projects we accomplished with the Basotho people and it was amazing learning and spending time with the kids that surrounded us. We began the process of building two homes, built playgrounds, planted frui t trees, and other smaller projects throughout the areas of Maseru, Ramabanta, and Roma. I call it an accomplishment not because we completed each task, but because of the smiles that we received from the Basotho people as a result. The fact that we did it together meant everything. I stopped and I realized that this was proof that if people came together, great things can happen. That is why I am thrilled to be a part of Bloom Africa. This organization is an opportunity for me to progress with those who have the similar belief of working together to perform life changing projects in the country of Lesotho.

             The Basotho people taught me a new way of life and a different definition of humanity. Throughout my trip, I learned so much about myself by just simply interacting with people and it is something I wish to continue during my internship and college experience. Bloom Africa is a movement that gives me the chance to not only stay connected, but to work with a great team in order to aid and assist those in Lesotho.

-Nikki Georgeson

Nikki is serving as Bloom Africa's Social Media Intern and is currently a student at Wittenberg University.

Rural Poverty Reimagined

I used to believe eradicating the rural poverty experienced by my countrymen was a challenge that was impossible to tackle. I’d ask myself where does one begin, and even how. It is widely known that the rural population of Lesotho experiences poverty and the impacts of HIV/AIDS on a much larger scale than those living in urban Lesotho. I would like to believe there is no argument to this. My understanding of rural poverty in Lesotho is that it is perpetuated by resource scarcity. The resources I’m referring to range from educational, economic to even social. These are aspects that drive a state and its people. This type of situation is not unique to Lesotho alone, economic/social centers are usually found in urban areas. However, what I believe further intensifies rural poverty and the lack of resources, is the geographic setting of Lesotho.  Lesotho is entirely mountainous, so we have villages that are quite difficult to access. You find that even the most minimal of services are not provided for people living outside the city. As a result, all across Lesotho we have communities unable to reach their fullest potential.  There is such a distinct difference between children living closer to the city and those living in the outskirts. You find that the children in rural districts are not as optimistic about their futures, they dream but they do not dream big.  And this is because they don’t have the positive channels they can tap into that can encourage them to see beyond their surroundings.

I can now say Bloom Africa faces the challenge of rural poverty in Lesotho. The vision carried by Bloom Africa to establish Community Learning Centers means we will have boys and girls in communities who are motivated and empowered with various skills and dignity allowing them to take charge of their own destinies. Furthermore, I believe through the programs that will be offered at community learning centers, that the children’s self confidence may be developed.   This would, in turn, help them overcome what could be internalized poverty resulting from the conditions of their environment. Since poverty is experienced and defined differently, by being community orientated, Bloom Africa is able to understand the different facets of poverty, identify what helps reduce poverty, what works and does not work. My view of dealing with rural poverty as an impossible challenge has definitely been challenged!

Mosa Makutsoane is a Board Member with Bloom Africa and resident in Maseru, Lesotho.