We had our first Gender and Development (GAD) Committee meeting last week. It is a relatively new committee and the roles were never clearly defined before, so not much happened last year. At the meeting, we discussed how to support PCVs working on projects related to gender equality and what each of our specific job duties is. We came up with a variety of ways to aid current PCVs, to introduce GAD to new training groups, and to work with local government officials on initiatives for gender equality and women empowerment.
And as the GAD Secretary, I will assist in training and functions, and maintain GAD documents (e.g. calendar of events) and resource materials (e.g. records of past gender-related projects). We are starting from scratch here and the committee hopes to complete all of these resource documents (during our one-year term), in order to pass on to future Peace Corps groups.
The biggest initiatives for the GAD Committee are Camp GLOW (Girls Leading Our World) and Camp BUILD (Boys of Uganda Leading In Development). Each year there is a National Camp GLOW and BUILD for youth (usually ages 15-18 years old). The week-long camps have sessions and activities on topics such as life skills, sports, critical thinking, and health. Also, campers are taught skills such as tailoring, improved farming techniques, and good business practices to allow them to start income-generating activities when they return to their communities.
And because there was such a high demand to be a part of the national camps, Peace Corps Uganda decided to start doing them regionally as well. This year there is a Northern Camp GLOW and Camp BUILD, which will be held in Gulu, April 24-30. And I have been selected to be a counselor at Camp GLOW! This means I will work with a group of 10 campers and build relationships with them, make sure that they participate, understand the meaning/importance of all the lessons, and lead group reflections about women’s empowerment.
Every time I sign up for a new project, it renews my energy. :) I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work one-on-one with the girls at Camp GLOW. Expect a long blog post and lots of pictures in May! :)
Hi Laura,
ReplyDeleteHow exciting that you will be leading a group at Camp GLOW this year! It's nice that they are being held regionally and you will only have to travel to Gulu. It will be a great opportunity for you to work directly with young people and know that you are making a difference in their lives. This is what you joined the Peace Corps to do. I can't wait to hear about your lessons and conversations with the campers. I'm so happy that your position in GAD is leading to another project for you. Talk to you soon.
Love, Mom
And, she's back! This is great news, Laura. I'm very excited and happy for you. In my opinion, working with kids/young adults is one of the most rewarding things you can do and helping young women in Africa grow their confidence and leadership skills will be incredibly gratifying. I'll bet you will learn as much from them as they do from you. Way to grow! I can't wait to hear more!
ReplyDeleteLove, Aunt Lynn
That's so awesome Laura!! Sounds like that will be a lot of fun! Can't wait to see some more pictures!
ReplyDeleteSo happy for you!Your rainbow was right around the corner! This sounds perfect for you!Congrats hon! Much love~Aunt Linda and Uncle Jer
ReplyDeleteIt was nice to hear about your upcoming adventures! A much happier note than your last post :). I can't wait to hear all about it!
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