A Day of Listening and Learning

Today we spent a full day in Malungeni. The morning began by being immersed in community conversations about vital topics such as accessing healthcare, empowering small businesses and job opportunities, and understanding some of the challenges faced during food distributions and determining who is most in need of parcels. It was a unique opportunity to be an integral part of listening and learning about the needs and concerns as well as how the community discusses and works together for the sake of the whole.

Delegates were delighted to visit the preschool and have a chance to observe and engage with the students. Education is one of AIAIA’s three pillars and the very roots of all growth and progress. Seeing some of our youngest learners having fun and progressing so beautifully brought pride and smiles all around. During this trip to Malungeni, the delegates had the pleasure of meeting and discussing early childhood education on a deeper level with the two A+ trainers who are in town hosting a teacher workshop. AIAIA is funding several of these workshops to strengthen and enhance teaching skills for even greater learning opportunities for children going to school in Malungeni. 

A highlight of our day together was a shared community meal and an afternoon spa. It always brings us such joy to provide a small amount of pampering to those who work so hard. We dearly hope that through our simple hand and shoulder massages and some gorgeous colored nails, each person feels us showering them with our love and care.

Although our journey in South Africa is coming to an end, we are experiencing so many deep feelings, intense thoughts, and stirrings of transformation within. We are filled with so much gratitude for what we have been allowed to see, learn, share, and receive. Our trip may be ending, but our personal growth and dedication to AIAIA and to those we leave behind will be with us always.