Blog post 2 - AY

               While saying all of my “goodbyes” leading up to my departure for Zambia, some of the most interesting conversations ensued while explaining to friends and family what I would be doing in Africa. From their single-story perception of the continent, they assumed that I would be doing typical “savior work,” like building a school or repairing a house. When I told them that I would be conducting research as part of Cornell’s Global Service Learning Program, they were confused. They did not seem to understand how research relates to service in any way.

               After working at the Southern African Institute for Policy and Research for the past two weeks, I have come to learn that service extends beyond building schools and repairing houses. Service can also include research, policy reviews, and evaluation of policy recommendations. It exists on all platforms, and no specific type of service is “better” than another. Although I might not be building schools, I am still managing to make an impact. Service is doing something to make someone else’s life a little bit better.

               With regard to motivation to serve, for me it certainly varies. Growing up in a family dedicated to service, it has always been a large part of my life. Overall, I am motivated by the prospect of making a difference. When we think about gender-based violence in Zambia, it is incredibly prevalent. Zambia has made some major strides to curb GBV, but there is still much to improve upon. As we continue our research, we will be able to evaluate prospective changes to GBV legislation and figure out ways to make Zambia safer for all men and women.

               In measuring success in service, I have come to understand that success does not necessarily need to be quantifiable. Granted, success can be measured by the number of houses built or schools repaired, but it can also be effort exerted or the success that emerges from the process itself. For example, the cultural exchange that I am experiencing with my host family is not quantifiable. However, it is still important and valuable. By living in a homestay and engaging in significant cultural emersion, I can help dismantle the “single story” perception of Africa that many of my friends and family at home may have. When I talk to my family about the knowledge, friends, and relationships that I have formed while in Zambia, they will learn that Zambia is more than just a resource-poor country. Like America, it is a dynamic country with interesting people, food, and experiences.

               As I continue my work with the SAIPAR, I must keep in mind that my research is important and has the potential to make a big difference. Academic revelations and reviews are valuable in forming significant policy change. From our preliminary interviews so far with various stakeholders, I have come to understanding that Zambia is in need for more concrete, conclusive legislation on gender-based violence. I am excited to continue evaluating policy proposals and forming recommendations and implications with Sabrina!