Second Home in Uganda

I may have been to Uganda four times now but each has been significantly differently and significantly special. My first year was full of excitement and emotion, it was my first time experiencing African culture and being exposed to such saddening poverty.The second year unfortunately I caught malaria and last year I began to grow in confidence. The work we were doing and projects developing focusing on women and young girls truly captured my heart.

This year the team was slightly different, compiled with families and youth workers. The atmosphere was calmer, relaxing and I never once stopped smiling. Since my first visit Uganda has felt a part of me but this year it felt as though I had come home. I felt more myself than I do in England. Children ran for miles to us, the muzungas, just to touch and see these crazy people wave.They grin, they chuckle and from an instance there is a bond. The strongest sort of bond ever created, love.

I may write in more detail about my trip another time but for now I thought I would just share a few snippets. A few pieces of writing, which I have written over the years at the end of working days in Uganda. The trip was far too short, I could have continued visiting schools forever. Continued sharing the importance of education and talking about menstruation with young girls. I would willing continue singing, dancing and playing sports with the children, as they watch their families and communities test for HIV/AIDS. Uganda has been an amazing part of my year and the people I met and friends I made will always have a part of my heart. I simply wish it could have been my whole year.

 Something so plan
Something used for a purpose
A carrying container
'Run, run, run' we say as we hop between each foot,
'Faster, faster...go now'
Produces joy from ear to ear
A moment shared is all it seems to take
A wave, a hello, or even just a water bottle
produce a smile on the surface
But who stops to listen.
Stops to hear
Stops to solve the cause of disease and poverty?
A wave can bring happiness
A wave can bring an inner warmth inside,
A condescending ear with out direction still means nothing..

 I can't think straight
My mind is overcome with thoughts
Their beautiful smiles,

Their heavenly heartfelt laughter
Why can't it always be like his for them
Why must they struggle to get water,
Why must they wear ripped and dirty clothes,
Why must they starve.

Today I danced and sang
Today I laughed and ran around
Today I wept at the happiness love can bring
and cried at their poverty.

 So proud, so welcoming
Straw for the roof
The rain can get in.
Mud on the floor
with one bed to rest in.

A food store in the corner
even though the grain won't far
You  know if you were hungry
what's theirs would became your buffet cart.

They would share
without a second thought
For they care
'what's mine is yours and what's yours is mine'

I just wish I could help them
provide for them all
Give them clothes, shelter and foods galore.
For each person, for each day, throughout their life,
So they could live in prosperity.

Who am I to say, let's change your life style?

Who am I to say let's urbanise your world?

Why should they listen to me?

I don't hold these answers,

but what I can do right now, 

in this moment,

is to talk and listen and hold them close.

Create a smile that lasts forever

embedded in their memories

And never let go!

            For  we are all equal,

Blind, deaf or colour of skin.

We are the same,

We can laugh together, cry together, care for one another.

And I will always remember these days.

Jessica (above) and so many others are now my friends. I hope they never forget the day when I was one of the muzungas that didn't just drive by but stayed to play.
As always I will be thinking of those who have touched my heart and praying for their health and happiness.

All my love always,
Stay Beautiful
     Zsofia xxxx

Girls having received panties and pads

The Art of Loneliness

We all have moments of loneliness, times when we feel as though nobody can possibly understand. There is no one there who one can rely on. No one around to emphasise with us in times when we can't truly understand ourselves. It's easy to say one feels alone, but in the true light of things are we ever actually completely alone?

People surround us in everyday life. The world is heavily populated after all you know. People are forever talking, the sounds of the rushing world past by. When are we free to be on our own, actually alone in body and soul. While we sleep? I suppose though my parents are only in the opposite room. When we are asleep we are peaceful and tranquil, when we awaken do even remember the feeling? The dreams we dreamt drift away as our eyelids awaken to a new day. With it the sense of alone has passed and it is as if we were never truly alone at all

Still we can all feel lonely. I can be in a sea of chatter and inside it is as though nobody notices I am even there. Crowds don't nessesarily mean you are with people, or noticed. I would say that in the most part the times I feel most lonesome are when surrounded by people. With people I can hide myself and be alone. But I am never actually on my own. Lonely in soul but submerged in a  crowded world.

I do however believe that many people are truly alone. In the sense of family and friendships. It breaks my heart to say this but there are people who have nobody. No one to talk to, share the day with, nobody to love them. Nobody in their hearts. That must be what true loneliness is, having nobody in your heart, friends, family. Without some form of love, you are empty and alone.

I may feel lonely somedays but my heart is always full of love from my parents, family and friends. Even when my body is on it's own, my heart is never left without love. I am so grateful for this and truly aware that many in this world don't have people to care for them. And I wish I could change this, I wish I could tell all the people in the world that I love them. 

May I use this time to say, that all I want, more than anything is for everybody to feel loved and cared for. Whoever I meet in my life, tomorrow or in many years to come, I hope they know how much I care. I love those I meet years ago and I love those whom I am yet to meet. We all need to be cared for, we all need love.

In a few days I fly to Uganda to work with the charity Teams4U. This is my fourth time in the town of Kumi. In this area there are so many with nothing in the way of materialistic objects or money  but some have a loving community, a real sense of togetherness. Then again far too many have no one, no family. While I am there I hope that they all know they have a place in my heart, maybe I can find a place in theirs. 

I will be thinking of them forever, and I will be thinking of you too. I pray that you never have to feel true loneliness, for remember, you will be in my heart always.

Stay Beautiful,

         Zsofia xxxx

Even this little cute chick needs to know it is loved!

Friends on the go...

At the moment I am spending a lot of my time travelling between cities on the train. I have always loved the train, finding it peaceful to sit and watch the world wizz past from the comfort of my little red seat. I never become bored, admiring the world through the glass window of the train. Often I make conversation with my fellow passengers. Simply asking if they have had a nice day and where they are going.
I remember on one clear occasion when I was travelling from Exeter to Coventry I was sat next to this elderly lady. I was tired and not in the best of moods but as soon as she begun to talk I felt calmer and my day didn't seem that bad at all. She listened to me moan about my worries at university and gave me advice without judgement. She then continued to tell me all about the reasons for her journey. She was on the way to meet her friend in Bristol. They reunite once a year for a long lunch, catching up on the past year and reminiscing on their times together at university. I can't help but smile when I think of friendships which have so much history and have simply lasted a whole life time. I hope one day I will have friends who I have had the pleasure of knowing my whole life, friends whom I love and care for, friends which make me laugh and smile; friends who actually love me for being myself.

 'It's often said that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn. And we are led to those, who help us most to grow, if we let them...I don't know if I believe that's true, but I know I'm who I am today because I knew you!' 

  I also recall another train journey, again travelling back from Exeter to Coventry. I was sat at a table seat alongside 4 other individuals. An elderly lady who had non stop fits of giggles, this business man who could talk for England and then a chemistry student. I sadly don't remember what we spoke about but I do remember being told off my other carriage members to keep quiet as we were having far to much fun. Not all journeys are entertaining or full of enchanting people. Unfortunately most of the time it is just me and my notebook and pen, with my music playing in my ears gazing at the world around me. Over time I have become accustomed  to my own company, a tranquil state of mind, being by myself as I move around towns.

But it does sadden me that in general we are all so busy immersed in our own little lives we don't think to chat to the person next to us at a bus stop, or ask the lady on the train if she is having a nice day. If someone was to ask us a question I wonder how often we walk past with out stopping to listen. We are in a rush, only thinking about getting from A to B. Maybe if we were more open to making friends in less conventional places we would have more happy moments in our days and more friends to smile and share laughter with? Maybe if we made a conscious effort to think of others before ourselves we would  converse with those around us, stopping to help give directions on the street or listening to someone off load their concerns.

Let's all  make the time to be friendly to the people around us who we may not normally give our attention too. I believe in you!

Stay Beautiful,

    Zsofia
          xxxx

Simply be...Kind!

'Carry out a random act of kindness with the same hope that one day someone might do the same thing for you' Princess Diana

Kindness is the quality of being friendly, generous and considerate. An act, something which we can all achieve on an everyday basis and most of the time it is part of our everyday nature. We don't have to specifically try to be considerate or show affection as it is is part of our human nature to be kind. Sometimes however we can be so busy we may not be as polite or thoughtful as we should be or would have liked to have been.

 Each day  I try to be conscious of my decisions especially those that affect others around me. I often think 'oh  I should have done this then' or smiled more at the lady. We so easily get wrapped up in our personal world and forget the impact we can have on a persons day. If  I am feeling sad and somebody smiles at me or holds the door open for me I instantly feel brighter. So I have come up with a few ways we can all try that bit harder to be kind to those around us. And hopefully light a sunshine in people's hearts. 

1. Simply smile as you walk around town, smile at the people you pass by on the way to work. Maybe even say 'hello' or 'good morning' to the person waiting at the bus stop with you.
2. Take a minute to stop and give someone directions even though you may be in a rush.
3. Write a note for someone at work to brighten their day. Why not try, 'Never forget how beautiful you are'.
4. Help a mother with her pram up and down stairs or someone with their suitcase.
5. Say please and thank you and truly mean it.
6. Hold the door for someone and stay there until everyone has come trough without moaning that you aren't a door stop.
7. Offer your time to a friend or neighbour for babysitting.
8. Buy a stranger a coffee.
9. Give a shop assistant a home made treat so they know how much you appreciate their help.
10. On crowded public transport offer your seat to anybody who looks like they need to sit down.

These are simply a few examples, there are endless amount of ways to bring kindness and love to those around us.  I like to write thank you notes for people; to wish them a nice day and to always make sure I ask people how they are and  actively listen to their response.Putting others before yourself can be challenging, especially in our fast paced lifestyles but give it a try!

The world is full of magically wonderful people like yourself so share your happiness with them.

Stay Beautiful,

          Zsofia xxxx 

Wondering Wonderstruck

 

Flowers are one of my favourite parts of this beautiful world and they're special to me. Every human being, those who are my friends and those who I haven't yet had the pleasure to meet; all have a place in my heart.

 

 

Fields of green surround me

Shades of evergreens and limes

Mystifying my eyes into an a bliss of wonder.

 

The scent of fresh grass sprinkled

with a blanket of daisies

I shall tip toe between ever flower

spinning in the sunlight.

 

If every flower was a person

living in fear or poverty around the world

I would sweep them up

and hold them so close to my chest.

 

Isn't it funny how daises are perfectly equal,

 just as we are.

And just as we can be they are fragile,

 needing love and care.

 

We wouldn't trample on the flowers

so let's not trample on the hearts of others.

Let us all be free like the flowers.

 

 

Reflections of India- Beautifully Indian

India has the most beautiful culture, the bright coloured majestic clothing, the entrancing music, the incredible spicy food and the variety of religions, to name just a few elements. Each day I became more accustomed to the wonders around me, each day I learnt more about the countries traditions and diverse people. And each day I wished more and more that didn’t have to return back to England.

I have been back from Tamil Nadu, India for just under a month now and it's frightening how quickly one can adapt back to normal life. As soon as I returned I was straight in the warm shower and enjoying the comfort of my cosy bed. India feels like a distant memory, but at the same time the incredible people I met and the places I visited will always have a place in my heart. Every experience I had, each person I met has made me who I am now and will continue to shape the person I become.

 

Recently I have started an internship in Oxford for Oxfam and as a result of that I have been spending a large amount of my time travelling and on the train. I have always found train journeys exciting and peaceful. I moment in the day to think about my thoughts and others. I chance to breathe. This week as I sat watching the world rush past me in my little carriage I wrote about India. I have been feeling so guilty for not struggling to come back to my life in England. In some horrendous ways it feels as though I could have never actually been away at all.

 

It is very easy to become so self centred and focused on our own lives. Since I have returned this is something I notice more around me in others. We are all so busy, always on the go, rushing around for our lives. And I fear that I too may have succumb to this. I have focused on my next steps, seeing friends and family. For me my life has changed, did it for those I left behind?

 

It's so strange being back,

India now apart of me,

No more am I apart of it.

 

I want to think of them always,

but I don't.

I simply get one with my life,

I move on to my future.

 

What does their future hold?

Memories of laughter and happiness.

That's not fair though

 

My life has changed

I travel onwards and upwards

While Pavi waits to be married.

 

Sasi is desperately trying to find a job

and Presanth and Naveen hang around,

hoping...

 

Facebook can keep us connected,

as far as emojis and Sapt tan la's can go

We say friends always but is that a friendship?

 

I wish we could be together properly

without social media and the rest of the globe I our way.

It's not a fair life!

I get the chance to explore and discover, why not them too.

We are the same, we are equal.

 

 

Maybe if everyone who read this could just take a few moments out of their day to think about somebody else, how our actions never simply affect just ourselves and how so many lives all over this world need  to be supported. I will be trying my best to continue using my train journeys to write and think about the world, especially those in India who I met and love very dearly.It can start with a thought. A little prayer and wish for others.

 

Stay Beautiful,

 

                     Zsofia xxxx

 

Sleeping 35 degree heat...

I am not sure I can remember what sleeping without the fans lullaby would sound like, what is silence? I certainly haven't had the pleasure of meeting it for a while now. What is the cold? The words of Frozen seem like such a mystery to me these days, oh how I wish to build a snowman!

When I first arrived the hectic streets and sardine packed buses were far from desirable but now it's as easy as a,b,c. I do still find myself hoping for times of personal space but I have arrived at the understanding that really this isn't going to happen.It is wonderful being around so many new and interesting people all the time, learning so much about how diverse we all our but  also just how similar we are too. Sometimes I do wish I could have a moment for myself, a moment to breathe and  to be free, able to think about my own thoughts.


 Surprisingly my anxiety have been limited. I often find this when I travel, I get this sense of calm within myself. Previously when I traveled to Romania and Uganda with Teams4U I found that my troubles vanish.  It may have partly because I was far to excited with my new adventure but I believe it has do with the fact that I have other issues to focus on. Other people and other challenges to support. Myself and my inside worries and thoughts don't become a shadow of fear casting over my heart. I can see clearly that my self concerns can be pushed to the side and replaced by brighter, better worries of other people. I am not saying that while I have been in India I don't get anxious. I do. I am simply able to control my worries and panic attacks better than when I am at home.

Recently Cormac, Charlotte and  I took to the hills. I felt like Maria, spinning around in the mountains and singing to my self, 'The hills are alive with the sounds of music'  It's hard to find words to express how beautiful and relaxing the surroundings were. I hadn't really noticed how much nervous energy had actually been building up and hiding inside of me until we arrived on the hills and a weight was lifted from my soul. I was myself again. We traveled by bus and then got an auto to the top of the hills. It was worth every penny, chugging along with the wind in my hair, swerving around the twisting roads. We watched the palm trees turn into a play set and the monkeys squabble and menace about below. The auto driver even let us stop half way up to take photos of the delicious view. The rest of the day was spent wondering around the nature park (which wasn't overly prosperous due to droughts) and discovering that the amazing must see waterfall had dried up. Still we had a little boat trip on the small lake and enjoyed the not too hot sunshine. Honestly the most heavenly day with some lovely people. I may not have been having daily panic attacks since being in India I defiantly needed this peaceful break. I am so grateful for this chance to gather my thoughts and be free.

 I pray for those all over the world who never have the chance to feel safe, break away and have time for themselves.

Stay Beautiful,

Zsofia 

       xxxx

'The hills are alive with the sounds of music'

A Glimpse into the Room Upstairs

Over the past week I have been fortunate to have some wonderful experiences and activity filled days. Other days however have involved more sitting around, planning and waiting for people to get back in touch. As I may have mentioned before the pace in India is generally slower and more relaxed. The day is split into the morning and the evening, apart from that times can be quite vague. For as Pavi says they like to enjoy each moment!

Monday 30th March 2015
Today I was finally able to visit Share and take part in one of their community meetings. They were speaking about sexual harassment and the protection of women and children in the villages. We couldn't contribute unfortunately but spoke about community health. Due to the lack of time we decided upon a general discussion with questions. Sasi was in his element and simply kept talking and talking. Not sure about what  but the ladies and the man in charge seemed to be engaged. The man in charge of Share is so lovely and knowledgeable. You can tell that he believes in all work they do there, when he spoke his eyes would light up.
As we were leaving I recognised this red weaved tinsel which mum had bought from Tradecraft a few years ago and we use to decorate the Christmas tree. I asked the ladies if they were only sold locally or if they were sold worldwide with the national Tradecraft organisation. Apparently they are which is an incredible thought. Maybe one of these women made ours.

Tuesday 31st March 2015
Early start to the YRC for a CV workshop. The health team went to Don Boscos Youth Centre to teach the ladies about preventions. We hadn't really planned our session overly well as the  poisonous caterpillars had taken  lot of our time up and sadly Becky is poorly. I really hope the nationals remembered to hand the leaflets out but i'm not sure. When we arrived at the YRC nobody was around and we were told by the nationals that nobody is going to come as they are at school and work. They simply didn't seem overly interested in trying to gather people either even after I explained that we were trying to target the unemployed in the villages so they must be around? Seriously where are they!
One boy came in, I think it was to play on the computer games but together we completed a IYDP and surprisingly he too wants to be an engineer. This would have been Sassi's change to talk about his personal struggles as an engineer graduate to secure work.I was on my own and I don't speak Tamil. It was a struggle, how can we engage the locals if we can't engage our national volunteers to understand the importance of  awareness raising. The afternoon was spent planning back at the office.


Wednesday 1st April 2015 
Such an exciting day visiting the hospital. Oh how I 'missed' CMC. My appointment was at 7:30am however I wasn't seem until at least 9am and I didn't leave until 5pm. Off we trotted ready for the Indian hustle and bustle which awaited us in the streets. We had to wear name badges and que in a odd version of a que. My height and weight was measured, names called using various different sounds and finally it was time to see the scary doctor.
I feel it was such a waste of a day, I fear a lot of days are recently. But I must remember we can't do everything in one day. The weather is hot and everything gets slower in the heat. The others spent the day planning and filling in our ICS Journals.I feel unhelpful today, but at least I cooked dinner.

Thursday 2nd April 2015
Adventures and rally come hand in hand in many ways but also created two very separate parts to my day. Michelle and I left the office early and wondered off to visit schools before we joined the others at the YRC to organise the rally. Auxilum girls school which is the female Don Bosco but they were on leave. On the way we past a sign for St Marks secondary school, so we headed there as well. It definitely wasn't  as near the sign had suggested. Hot and sweaty, 'water' dripping down my face in the 35c morning heat we spoke to the the headmistress. Air Con has never made me so happy. I explained all about Restless Development and how we would like to run a careers fair. We booked a career's fair....
The  Autism awareness rally was a huge success, we had over 25 children help us prepare banners and hold them high banging drums through Vanjur. Even if no one understood what we were saying, we still got children to engage and have fun. 'Stand Out to Autism'.



Friday 3rd April 2015
I am missing mum and dad rather. I keep having sudden thoughts about them, I am not sure how I would cope without them around. Words will never describe the pain which my heart will feel. I am so blessed to have my family... Charlotte and I went to teach English at Don Boscos, there is always a late start so I don't know why I am always surprised. We recapped phonics and said some tongue twisters,  then asked each lady to read a sentence out loud from the Ugly Duckling. We explained how confident and proud of themselves they would be afterwards. The women really weren't keen but after a few moments they had all read in English in front of everyone. Some read perfectly and wished to read again, others had the Tamil written beside to help them and some repeated after me, but still it was all English.  It was an absolute joy to see their beautiful happy faces, they were so proud of themselves and so was I. After this they introduced us to endless Tamil games. There is something so honest and special about these ladies relaxing and being able to be free to feel silly and have fun together.

Easter Weekend

Monday 6th April 2015
Today consisted of planning and more planning. Becky and I had a chat with Rekha about colleges and businesses. It really is such a shame she hasn't been around to provide this information before. If we had known imagine how much more we could have achieved! Que sera,sera, whatever will be will be. Planning was difficult, progress is slow in a team, especially when the weather is hot and people wish to rest. We managed to talk about our dance competition and draft some leaflets.

These are simply snippets of our week and some selective moments and thoughts from my diary. I may be finding some days harder than others but this experience though frustrating is incredible and I wake each day so excited to discover what the new day will bring.  I hope and pray that where ever you are around the world that you feel peaceful and happy. May tomorrow always be brighter than yesterday and the sun always shine in your heart.

Stay Beautiful,

          Zsofia xxxx

Challenge yourself to change your world

The sunbeams through the palm trees,
The wind hums a morning song,
The light flickers across the leaves,
And a new day is born.

The beauty of the world is now awake,
And so is the entire human race,
But how differently we must take
the start of a new day.

Far across the town,
In Vanjur and Jebrapet.
Villagers begin to rise,
Never to know what may come their way.
With the uncertainty of disease
Unexpectedly, knocking at the door.

Days may go by,
Skills and qualifications may be sky high
but without the care and guidance
They may never know that their dreams can be achieved.

Children run and play
Sandy feet beating the ground.
Pen and paper hardly meet
Or their lips read a sound.

For them the sun can't brighten away
 all the troubles and fears that fill the day.
A song needs a heart not simply a tune
to whisper words of  'You can change your world'.

If the morning glow could guide them,
Then each new dawn would be an empowered moment too.

Make your Passion your Profession

'Choose your career on the basis of who you are'

Many regions and states in India are highly developed. If you looked around major cities in the North especially you would be surprised by the wealth and development which surrounds you. Not only is the landscape varied and the culture diverse but the opportunities between states and communities are vast. Each region though governed by the state controls education separately and government led schemes for health and livelihoods. This impacts the equality of how the system works and schemes are implemented. With so many rural communities and a ever growing population even on a state level villages and some districts can miss out. Opportunities are often said in England to be brighter for the upper classes, in India it is also true, the higher castes are more wealthy.

Part of the work which we are doing here in Tamil Nadu involves talking about career options after 10th Standard (Year 11), Degree courses at University, Diploma options, CV writing, personal development and training scheme and job hunting advice. Whilst in Vellore are target is to work with at least 24 individuals between the ages of 14-32 to create their own action plan. The action plan aims to help the individual think about their own qualities; strengths and weaknesses, skills and to get them to think about what they want to achieve, their dreams. To help them think about what they could achieve, a realistic plan for their future taking into consideration any issues which may prevent their success.

Our target communities in Vellore, the rural villages of Vanjur and Jebrapet have two primary schools and one secondary school between and many children from the surrounding villages  also attend them. The classes range from 30-100 pupils with few girls staying on past 9th Standard. However  the growing importance in some families is getting stronger in these communities and girls and boys are travelling to the city to continue their education, though the options of course continue to be very limited.

 Commonly known jobs, such as a Mechanical Engineer or a Doctor, are often oversubscribed and thus finding work is an extremely difficult task. However there are many roles within the fields of Engineering and Medicine that are less well know, and many other entire fields of work that are often overlooked, that can provide secure well paid work. On Monday we went to Don Bosco's Matriculation School and held a careers fair. As we were told it was for 9th Standard boys we planned to talk mainly about post 10th Standard  subject options and leading into why these choices would effect the degrees they can apply for later on. Not only did we want to inform them of the variety of career opportunities available to them but to inspire them to think about what they like , hobbies and subjects, what their passion is.Qualifications, education can be the key to their success as long as it is paired with your own interests and personal qualities.  When we arrived the headmaster gave us 11th Standard which was even better. We got the boys to promise that when they think about the next step to remember that you must Make your Passion your Profession! 

 While being in Vellore I have discovered that they choose to study Engineering or Medicine because they are told to and they aren't aware of the other choices. Sassi one of the national volunteers studied Electrical Engineering but doesn't ever and has never wish to be an Engineer. 'I never enjoyed Science or the course, I like Maths though'. When I asked him why he had studied it he said that his parents had never been to University and wanted him to study Engineering for it is thought to be a good thing to study. 'We don't know about the other jobs or degrees, people just know Doctor or Engineer.' Two young boys came over to talk to me after the careers fair to say thank you. One of the boys told me that he has always wanted to be an Electrical Engineer for that is all he knew but now he sees that even in that field of work he could train in 46 other types. The other had wanted to be a doctor but now thought his skills in Maths means he should be an accountant instead. They were so grateful and sweet, I hope to stay in touch so that after their exams we can support them further if they so wish. 

On Monday we also held a session in the Secondary school grounds for 258 6th-9th Standard pupils.  We spoke about the importance of reading and writing and education to be able to achieve their dream. We asked them what they wanted to be when they grew up. Out of all those children  they knew 5 career choices; 

• Doctor/Nurse

• Engineer

• Teacher

• Police

• Army

Then we held up 6 pictures of other career choices and the children guessed what they might be and we talked about them. By the end of the session some children said they now wanted to be an accountant or a beautician instead.  We tried to encourage them to follow their heart and to explore as many options as possible before deciding what route to take to make sure you as an individual find work that is engaging for you interests and provides the support you need.

It's easy to think that running these sessions has no impact for their is no instant evidence of change. But it's a start and it's something, a seed of new knowledge has been planted. Even if just one of these children we met on Monday starts to think about the variety of options available to them or has a happy memory. Then it's a success. Why begin to help change happen tomorrow when you can begin today?

The next few weeks will be busy filled with many more of these awareness raising and education sessions. I am so thankful to be here in India. Waking up each day to visit more children and plan sessions to help them gather the skills they need to create a sustainable and enjoyable life.

Stay Beautiful,

Zsofia xxxx 

The greatest gift of all...

A smile is often said to be the prettiest thing a person can wear. Where ever you travel in the world people need to smile. Where ever you go people are willing to be your friend. All around the world their are people who are lonely, who's hearts have begun to wonder if love will ever come their way. 

I spent last week in hospital and while it wasn't the nicest of experiences I was fortunate to meet some lovely people. Dr Harsa and Nurse Mary have the most compassion I have ever known. When I was feeling frightened or very unwell they took the time to talk to me and explain exactly what was happening,unlike others in the ward.  They visited me through out the day and always smiled and said 'hello' even if they had nothing else to say. I will be eternally grateful for their care and support and before I left I wrote them  little notes to say thank you and gave them a friendship bracelet. I feel it's very important to show people how much you appreciated there love and kindness. I also left next to my bed a note for the next patient to let them know that I will be praying for them and wishing them a speeding recovery. Everyone deserves to know that they are adored.

Similarly I have been giving out the friendship bracelets to the children and women who we have been working with. To see their faces light up is a glorious thing. When others are happy it makes me happy. Today is International Happiness Day, a day when all over the world everyone should smile even brighter than any other day. It's such a joy to feel happy. Your heart sings; your feet dance and your mind sways in the wind. The world is light and you float on a breeze. The world moves to the rhythm of your joy. while every note is sung with the voice of contentment. I asked everyone on our team what makes them happy and why they are happy today. It was so nice to hear people talk about themselves and each other in such a positive light.

Sanjeet- Happy to be away from home and with everyone in Vellore, learning and spending time together speaking English.

Michelle- Happy and simply grateful that she decided to leave her job and take part in this wonderful opportunity.

Mac- Feels free to be himself, enjoying the space from home and being in a situation where he can meet new people and gain new and enlightening perspectives. 

Charlotte- Is feeling happy as she has eaten lots of sugar! Each day is special and each day is one which matters and she will always remember. She will only have happy memories of India.

Becky- The comfort and dynamics of the group means she can be herself; free to moan and complain as we are all such good friends now. Feeling positive as her body and mind are starting to get used to India. 

Gill- All the Cows!

Karima- The beautiful moments like now when we are all sat around together eating, laughing and building natural friendships. All the experiences the uniqueness of India.

I am feel so blessed that our friendships feel so effortlessly made and have developed so organically. We are all relaxed, free to be ourselves and when people are comfortable the most magical of memories happen. People, people who need people are the luckiest people in the world, spreading cheer in all our hearts.

To be smiled at is to be given the greatest gift of all!

Stay Beautiful,

Zsofia xxxx

International Women's Day

A celebration to express respect and admiration for Woman around the world

'We realise the importance of our voices when we are silenced' Malala Yousafzai

The first International Women's Day was held on March 19^th 1911. Over 1 million people attended rallies worldwide to mark the occasion.It’s now celebrated in over 100 countries. Restless Development strongly believe in the empowerment of women and girls, that females have the right to education, a right to peace, a right to work, a right to government office, a right to vote. A right to equality across all boards. Women perform 2/3 of the world’s work, produce 50% of the food, but earn only 10% of the income and own only 1% of the property. At the same time, women aren’t participating in public and political life on equal terms as men.

Women from poor backgrounds, from rural and indigenous communities and minority groups are still particularly marginalised within decision making processes and institutions. Not only this but they are more susceptible to domestic abuse and sexual assault due to lack of self confidence and belief in equality.This is something that together we can change. By coming together and celebrating women and girls everywhere, we can raise awareness and make a stand for the right to equality, putting women at the forefront of change.

Tamil Nadu is a shining example of the beginnings of change. It’s a pleasure to be among people who have a real vision for their future, who realise they have the right to make their own choices about who they want to be. In 2012 the Director General of Police, Letika Saran retired. She was the first female Director General of Police in Tamil Nadu and only the second to hold this post in country. She said that from her first posting she found it hard, being only one of two women in this field at this level. It was like working in a goldfish bowl, with the eye of the public and department on you. You had to constantly prove yourself, not just as Letika Saran but as a female police officer – failure wasn’t an option. In 2010 when Letika Saran made Director General of Police, her appointment was challenged by another police officer who said that his seniority had been overlooked. After it had been to court the government reappointed her for the position.

People see Letika Saran as a super achieving cop, people like Letika Saran show the world that they can achieve anything if they fight hard enough. On the Friday before International Women'd day we held a celebration at Don Bosco's youth centre in one of our target villages of Vanjur. The aim was to create a festival style atmosphere for the young women and housewives who attended, to empower them and for them to understand that they too can have a dream which with hard work and faith (maybe some fairy dust) can develop in something beautiful. It could be confidence and understanding, a skill, a job and a sustainable income. A bright future!

It was a truly incredible morning. Around the hall we had case studies of inspirational women from around the world and Tamil Nadu and a chain of paper women covered in quotes and facts all about the empowerment of women. We begun the celebration with a speech from us all which was translated into Tamil and then we music and games with craft activities and a guest speaker. Each lady  make a friendship bracelet and so did all of the volunteers so there was the understanding that we are all connected as friends and equals. We also painted a banner where everyone printed a fingerprint onto the tree and by the end of the morning it was blossoming and shining just like the women's smiles.

I had a lovely time and was touched by so many of women's joy and laughter. It was so magical the way they were so willing to share this celebration with us. At the end of the morning the national volunteers asked the women how they were feeling and if they had enjoyed themselves. The feedback was unbelievable, not only did they have fun and could be care free for a few hours but many told us that it has encouraged them to want to work and to brave. What more can you do but light hearts up one at a time. I hope in the weeks to come we can continue their journey on a beautiful path.

I am so grateful to share this time with so many inspiring and lovely women. They will forever be in my heart.

Stay Beautiful,

Zsofia xxxx

                                       

'Each one of us can make a difference, together we can make a change' Barabra Mikulski

'Spread love wherever you go. Never let anyone leave you without leaving happier' Mother Teresa 

An adventure to Vellore

We're all different
Yet we're the same
We may have different views
But together we should stay.
For if we work together
Who knows what joy we could bring
To those around the world
In pain and suffering.

This first week in Vellore has mainly been about exploring the city and discovering the local communities in which we shall be working. It was also spent cleaning the house for in 2 months a blanket of dust can quite quickly build up. We are extremely fortunate and have a western toilet and a working shower, even if it it's cold and the toilet actually doesn't flush. We also have mattress for the floor and a water filter. As soon as we cleaned it started to look much better and it already feels like home. It feels natural and normal to wake up to the shinnying sun through my bleary eyes and it is so refreshing having a freezing shower.

The Living Room

The Kitchen

Washing up anyone...

  One week down and the sun is getting hotter and the fans are proving not to be very powerful. We have been to visit the communities which we will be working in and spoken to the local schools about working in them. Sadly as it's exam time we haven't had much success in booking sessions for the older age groups. I have been learning to be more patient in the process, for everything takes a long time to get started.  Planning sessions  also takes time as we are a large group and so we must all discuss, which is good just sometimes less action is taken as we spend so long talking about what to do.  The previous team mentioned in their handover notes, which we got a week and half after arriving at placement, that they left a manual of resources and ideas which they had started so we could continue and have a good starting point. Unfortunately this hasn't been found and so we are starting at the very beginning, which may usually be the place to start (Sound of Music) but for development sustainability of these poor communities I fear  our work in these short few months won't begin to make the impact it could have if we had been better resourced. 

We have however made an amazing connection with the Don Bosco's orphanage and have been given 3 sessions a week at the community centre for women and children. I am so excited. The man who runs the centre used to know and work with Mother Teresa. Brother Lucas runs a week of training for the women where they learn trades such as sewing and weaving in the morning followed by an afternoon of study up to 12 standard (sixform) and then they are fully funded to study future at college and university if they wish too.  

This first week and a bit has been incredible, I have learn't so much about development work; to be patient; how to become involved in discussions and have had incredible experiences with the national volunteers as I continue to discover more about this beautiful culture. I am so used to eating with my fingers now, who needs a knife and fork. 

All my love to my friends and family all over the world,
Thinking of you,

Stay Beautiful,

     Zsofia xxxx 

' The English are so glamorous'

I have been in Chennai,  Southern India, for a week now and I am having the most incredible experience.  India has the most beautiful culture which I am slowly beginning to discover, each day I learn more about its traditions and diversity. 

 Tamil Nadu the state which I am staying has 6 practicing religions (Hindi, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism,Sikhism and Islam) and many district languages with the main language being Tamil. India alone has over 1600 spoken languages. I can barely speak one and here everyone must speak at least two, Tamil and English. English is taken as a subject up to the age 15 and any skilled job employment interviews are taken place in English. It's almost a requirement to be able to speak English if you wish to a decent standard of living.

So far most of my days have been spent in a room training with my fellow volunteers however yesterday we were taken on an adventure to the National Park and the Beach, by bus. Indian buses are quite the experience in themselves with brightly colored lights and music playing, passengers bobbing up and down as the vehicle drove it’s self. It was on the return journey which I had the fortune of meeting a lovely inspiring woman called Sharmila who kindly engaged in conversation with me for 2 hours on what I would describe as an extremely tightly packed bus, so squashed in fact there were men hanging out the doorway. I had a night tour from the bus window,  I was educated about the changed in women in India over recent years and about herself, all off which I wish to share with you.

Sharmila is in her late 20's and lives in Chennai (Tamil's Capital) after having completed a Buisness and Communication Masters at University. Unlike many Indian girls she traveled and stayed in another city away from her family but most families wouldn't let a girl move away for study. Since completing 2 different masters Shamila has been struggling to find employment, even though she also peaks 4 fluent languages. I have found this to be quite a trend here, people work so hard to been trained and educated and are still really struggling for employment.

 She told me about her new job which she we start tomorrow.She was so excited as she will be working for an English company in the field of computer programming which means a late start office hour to match English time. She had to leave her previous employment due to lack of respect for women in the work place. The women were paid less than the men with her monthly salary only amounting to 1,500 rupes after they had they deducted tax and other company expenses. To put that into perspective it comes to around 10 pounds. No one should have to live off that. Similarly women are expected to cover up in dress, with as limited skin showing as possible. Other wise  they are seen to be attracting dangerous attention and they would be at risk of sexual abuse and rape.Sadly there are high levels in Chennai and the city is viewed as unsafe after 6pm.

As we sat on the very crowded bus (men hanging out the door, full to the brim) Sharmila pointed out sights, the best shops, Gandhi Gardens, bridges and so on. She also told me about a Tamil poet who unfortunately I have forgotten the name off. It was very difficult to hear with then Indian nightlife beeping aggressively. The city is vibrant and full of bright colors but especially some buildings are covered in lights. These are wedding centres. Hindi weddings happen for a block of 4 months together and your book your wedding into a slot. This means the lights can stay up for the wedding season and then taken down afterwards. Sharlmia said that it is expected to attend at least 2 a month during this period. 

   The two of us spoke of many things, which would take a longtime to write about and I don't wish to bore you all, however as we become in deeper conversation and we laughed a lot it was as though I has known her for years. Shamila spoke in great detail about how India is unsafe, modernising and full of technology which was so informative. However my favorite conversation was when she randomly, in a moments silence said, 'Sofee why to English girls look so un glamorous, you would look so much better with jewelry and sparkly dresses'. I just laughed for it was true. There I was hot and sticky in a black t-shirt and trousers and she had on this beautiful sari, fresh flowers in her hair and earrings and wrist full of bangles. She continued to tell about the foreign way of eating,as she has been told that all people out of India ate Snakes and half baked foods. I din't wish to disappoint but I informed her that I tend to fully cook my food and have never eaten a snake.

The bus journey was over 2 hours so a friendship had time to be built. As you can see we took a photo, which really emphasizes our different shades of skin. As we looked at it together Shamila exclaimed that she wishes she was lighter and that she uses a whitening cream on her body like nearly all city women. 'Lighter skin is more beautiful'  I was shocked and I will admit I had to try very hard not to laugh but then I thought about  how in England we have an obsession with fake tan, be darker and sun bathe! I explained this to Shamila and we both laughed at how different our cultures were but also just how similar, women are changing their skin tone with the hope to find more beauty. But as I always say, the most important beauty is inside yourself. This we both agreed on, even though I must find some glamorous clothes.

Stay Beautiful,

          Zsofia xxxx

Spreading Friendship

So the day is near, tomorrow I leave for Tamil Nadu India. It is safe to say I am anxious but at the same time I feel as free as a little swallow. As Noel Streatfeild  liked describe the feeling, I am dog maddish and cotton woolish inside. Oh how I used to adore reading her book 'Ballet Shoes'. Anyway, the hours are ticking away until I depart and before I do I thought I would share a few ways I have prepared for my trip to keep my worries at bay.

Happy List I wrote a list of things to be grateful for and that make me happy when I am upset or anxious to take with me on my trip.

Music List A playlist of songs on my little mp3 which will give m energy, smiles and instant sparkles in my heart.

Letters to Loved ones I have been busy writing some poems and letter to my closest of friends to keep while I am away, for I don't know how much communication I will have back home. For others who I haven't been able to see I have tried my best to writing a text message with a short heart felt message in. I worry that I will be away from friends and family when they might need a day brightening so I hope that when they are sad they can read this and it will hopefully bring a smile.

Happiness Jars As I showed in my previous blog entry I made happiness jars and filled them with yummy treats and messages. The idea is that you give it to a friend and they can write down when something good happens, a merry moment and when they are under the weather they can read them and (fingers crossed) feel better.

Leaving'Fundraising Meal On Sunday I held a fundraising meal at the local Indian Restaurant (Ally's Balti) and invited everyone who i wanted to say goodbye to before I left. The Restaurant kindly gave 15% of the final bill to Worldwide Cancer Research and donated a voucher for a meal for two as a raffle prize. Over all we raised £152 and I am so grateful for everyone who came, it was so lovely to say goodbye to friends and family. Off course unfortunately not everyone could but I was over whelmed by how many did wish to attend. Some even gave me pressies!!!

Keep Sake Box My friend Lucy and her family actually gave me this as a leaving gift. The box has photos of us on the lid and when I received it I couldn't help but cry. Inside I have put some items and notes which I know will cheer me up if I get anxious and some photos of my loved ones.

Contact List I am hoping to be able to keep a journal whilst I am away and maybe send some letters home.So I have made a list of addresses and phone number of everyone I may want to contact when I am away in India.

Friendship Bracelets I decided to start a friendship chain between the UK and Tamil Nadu, I don't know how successful it will be but we can only try. So I am making beautiful friendship bracelets and will give them to a child in India as a gift from someone in the UK. I have now had over 100 people ask for a bracelet to be given in their name. I will try and maybe get them to write back in return or record a thank you message. We all need a reason to smile sometimes and these children are living in some of the poorest conditions in the world. Over 1.4 billion people are living in absolute poverty globally. The least we can do is be their friend. If you would like a bracelet just comment and let me know what colours.

Stay Beautiful,

Zsofia xxxx

Happiness in a Jar

The most Important thing in life is Happiness, to own the feeling of joy within ourselves- it's all that matters!

As the days get closer to my departure to India, I have felt myself getting more anxious inside. And when I am more anxious I become more self critical. When I am more self critical I become sad and it's hard to find reason to be happy. But I need to be happy, I need to be cheerful for the world already has enough sadness. The world needs more happy people, the world needs kindness for others and for ourselves. I find it hardest to be kind to myself, especially when I am anxious and I get all nervous and wound up. So I always try to remember that I am alive, I have a wonderful family and home and so many reasons to be thankful and I also have people who love me and depend on me.

I have written letters for my loved ones and created these jars with hearts in so that they know that no matter how far away I may be that I am thinking of them and love them with all my heart. These jars I feel can go two ways, they can be filled with treats and messages for a friend as a gift, such as a little candle and some home made cookies. Or as a personal happiness jar, where everyday or week you write down something that you are thankful for or something that makes you happy and place it inside. When you are sad or upset simply read it to yourself. It's amazing the power positive words can have on your soul.

To make the jars you will need:

• A Jar
• Some pretty paper
• Some paper doilies 
• Some colored thread
• Scissors
• A Pen
• Treats of choose
• Glitter     

To make these happiness jars are so easy and I think they look beautiful. Simply draw a heart on the back of the pretty paper and cut it out. Then place a doilie with the heart on top on the front of the jar and tie into place with the thread. Now fill with more cut out hearts, some sprinkles of glitter, happy messages and treats. Or for a different idea ass a tea light and use the jar as a candle holder. Now it's all ready to give to a friend.

 I have made a few to give to my friends before I leave for India next week. I have also made one for my dad as it's his birthday soon and I will fill it with treats and messages for them to read.