Looking Back and Moving Forward - AY

As Sabrina and I have began our initial research on gender based violence in Zambia, we have become more engaged in the topic and eager to get started. Gender based violence is an incredibly sensitive issue, and in Zambia, just like everywhere else in the world, it is a prevalent issue. However, Zambia has made significant strides in the past few years to curb gender based violence by implementing a number of preventionary and reactionary measures. In preparation for our presentation, Sabrina and I read several articles and were given resources to research from Tine. Moving forward, I am excited to explore the effectiveness of the measures Zambia has already enacted, and examine possible tweaks to make them even more effective. Once we get in country, my initial game plan is to speak to many different stakeholders to develop a dynamic understanding of the prevalence of GBV in Zambia. By speaking with religious leaders, members of the judicial system, and advocates for reform in GBV legislation, Sabrina and I will be able to hear many valuable perspectives. I think we have developed quite a bit of valuable literature review, but I am looking forward to getting to Zambia, and learning about the issue firsthand.

One of my favorite experiences from the pre-departure seminar was the breakfast meeting with Tine, and engaging in conversation with last year’s trip participants. For me, this made the trip feel much more “real.” I was excited to learn about the food I will be eating, the people I will be meeting, and the various opportunities and engagements that Lusaka has to offer. Further, I felt that the cultural perspectives presentations were meaningful, as I learned a lot about Zambian history and culture. Weddings, sports, food, and music are all topics that will definitely be discussed with Zambians once in country, and I am excited to have a little background and knowledge before I engage in these conversations.

Looking back on my initial personal learning goals, I feel that I have grown a lot and developed as a global service learner. One of my primary goals was to learn more about myself during the pre-departure seminar. Over this semester, I believe this has been accomplished, as I have become more aware of my naiveties, misconceptions, and preconceived notions. By engaging in intimate reflections and classroom discussions, I feel that I have become a more active learner. As I anticipate actually going to Zambia, I am most excited to improve upon my understanding of cultures that are different to mine. I do not have a lot of experience travelling, and it will be incredibly meaningful to engulf myself in a culture that is dissimilar to mine. I am excited to eat different foods, engage in different customs, and learn from people who are unlike me. As the course has come to an end, I am looking forward to the summer. The seminar has equipped me with the strategies, goals, and perspectives necessary to truly thrive in Zambia. I cannot wait to work with Sabrina and become close with my host family and fellow cohort members!