Well, here it is, my final entry. I would’ve posted something sooner, but every time I went to type I just didn’t know where to start, or what to say, really. It has been my pleasure sharing my experiences in South Africa studying globalization, sport and development, and from what I hear many of you enjoyed it too ☺ So I’ll get right to the points of my last entry: What do I remember most about South Africa? What did I get out of this trip? Has my life been any different since I’ve come back to the states?
Since I’ve been back I’ve been a lot more interested in the continuing development in South Africa, and if the promises made to them (improved housing, reduced poverty, health initiatives) are being fulfilled. Articles about social upheaval and broken promises come out every month, and I nod my head in agreement, shake my head in disbelief, and hold my head in uncertainty.
Because of my experience with Whizzkids and conducting research about non-profit sectors and the impact sport has on development, I think that I want to take a sport and development direction for my career. I can’t put a finger on what exactly I want to do, but something along the lines of using sport to promote social change and good citizenship in youth sounds like a good start to me. I am inspired by my trip to South Africa, which has given my academic path of sport management a new purpose full of zeal and curiosity. Throughout my life I want to continue traveling to other countries where sport is promoting or has the potential to promote social change. I am enthused about the thought of a sport and development career because, as I learned, not only is it a remarkable thing to see, it’s a remarkable thing to be a part of.
I haven’t noticed a large difference in my life since I’ve been back, but I definitely feel like I’m more conscious of what’s happening around me. I work at a ballpark where we have a regular attendance of approx. 6,000 people every game. I work on party decks where we serve the party a buffet meal, and I see so many hot dogs and hamburgers, bags of buns, and pounds of potato salad thrown away at the end of the night. I didn’t like wasting food before my trip, but now I look away when someone goes to pitch the food because I can imagine the reaction people living in informal settlements and on the streets would have at this disposal. While sipping my ginger tea I look at my “Live Simply” tattoo with new appreciation of living with less. I couldn’t believe a couple weeks ago I had a whole day to shop in Chicago and hardly enjoyed the 13-story Macys and exclusive retail shops. I found more satisfaction donating money to the homeless than buying myself school necessities.
When people ask me what my favorite part about South Africa was, every time I reply “I don’t have a favorite,” because in all honesty I thoroughly enjoyed every moment, and every moment had its own significance. In retort, the person would then ask “Well, what were the three most memorable moments?” and I would smile and bite my lip in thought. I secretly love when people ask this question, because it allows me reminisce about every snapshot I have stored in my memory- foreign landscape, playing soccer with Whizzkids overlooking the Umlazi Township, the vibrant sunrises and sunsets, the crashing Indian tide, USA beating Algeria, and the faces of all those I met while I was there. I don’t think I’ve had the same response to any person about my favorite part of the trip, but I know that the thing I will remember most about this trip is the way it made me feel: intrigued by insight, enthused with discovery, loved by everyone, and fortunate to embark on all ventures of my life that had brought me to that country.
“I see my path, but I don't know where it leads. Not knowing where I'm going is what inspires me to travel it.” - Rosalia de Castro
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Guess who's back, back again, Tori's back, tell a friend
My apologies for neglecting my blog, but if most don’t know by now, I’M BACK!! It’s been a wild time trying to catch up with friends and family, especially when I’m still on South Africa time and fall asleep at 6 p.m and wake up at 4 a.m, but I’ve made pretty good progress since arriving home on Saturday.
I didn’t realize that I never posted anything about my experience while watching the final match and my last week in Africa, which is what I’ll tell about in this post. I’ll have another post that is a bit more profound to wrap up the trip’s significance and how it has impacted my life.
July 11 2012: FINAL GAME! A few others and I decided to go to the Fan Park really early to ensure that we got good seats. Upon our arrival we noticed the influx of people on the boardwalk like we had never seen before, and street performers that seemed to line up along the sides one after another. To pass the time we went to the mini-theme park next door and rode the chair lift and got an awesome view that gave us a good view of northern Durban city limits (we could see the stadium really well) and literally passed over the Fan Park. Thousands accumulated and stormed the gates when they opened, a moment that reminded me a lot of waiting for Walt Disney World to open when I was a child.
The fan park filled up very quickly (45,000 people!!) and everyone watched with great reverence as the World Cup-the event South Africans had waited four years to come, was projected as a mere collection of memories during the closing ceremony. The dark clouds overhead sprinkled the crowd with raindrops but that just made the moment more intense as we watched Spain take the Cup. Fireworks went off on the nearby pier and an overwhelming electronica laser show started off the night of celebration. The moment was surreal, for the life of my I couldn’t grasp the fact that the whole event was over and the electric atmosphere was going to dwindle into nothing by the end of the week. And when I say dwindle, I mean to extremely regress.
Four days after the cup, on our last night in South Africa, a lot of the group went out to Florida Road, a place with a lot of restaurants and bars that was always packed to the sidewalks during the World Cup. To our surprise we got out and there was maybe 5 people we saw walking down the strip. There were maybe 10 people in the bar, and 20 people in the large restaurant next door. I had the chance to talk to a waiter at the restaurant and he said on a typical game night he was bringing in R6,000-R7,000 ($800-$900). Towards the end of his 10-hour shift that day, he had only made R50 ($7). This is the sort of sad reality that faces host cities. The economic impact is only temporary until they are able to attract investors that create jobs and provide an economic stimulus. But other than that shocking conversation, the night was pretty good and I was able to hang out and relax with some really great people I got to know over the course of the program.
The entire last week had been devoted towards school projects: a group visual essay titled “Youth of Africa: How they are overcoming adversity and are the future hope of this nation”, and my research paper where I talked about the World Cup’s role in combating South Africa’s (and other developing countries’) most preventable social issues, which involve reducing child mortality, improving maternal health, and combating HIV, AIDS, malaria, and other diseases. All I have to say is that if you think writing a research paper during the school year is hard, try writing one during your summer vacation, with minimal access to the internet, a broken printer, and in Africa of all places. If I ever complain about a paper, I have first hand experience in knowing that it could be worse.
I left for the airport on Friday at 6 a.m. and was all set to go but had to go back into the center to say goodbye to a few people. Arriving to the airport I went to get out of the van when I realized I was missing something very crucial- my luggage! Leaving the largest and most important piece of any traveler’s belongings seems to be something I would definitely do, sheesh. Luckily I had an extra hour to spare before my plane boarded. Other than that, my travels back to the states went smothly, as all of my flights were on time and went by in the blink of an eye. When I woke up with 5 hours of my 16 hour flight left, the couple in my row commended me for sleeping in the positions I slept in for 9 or so hours. In Atlanta I immediately resented being in the states because of the hot and humid weather I had so thankfully missed for 6 weeks. I went to get a drink at a shop and for a brief second though that I was going to buy a juice for R2.95. –A sign of missing Africa already.
Being home I am trying to take care of business that I missed and catch up on what’s happening in the world and in my community. I’m already noticing changes in how I live, but will post more about Africa’s impact and lessons learned early next week, if not later this week. Have a good one!
I didn’t realize that I never posted anything about my experience while watching the final match and my last week in Africa, which is what I’ll tell about in this post. I’ll have another post that is a bit more profound to wrap up the trip’s significance and how it has impacted my life.
July 11 2012: FINAL GAME! A few others and I decided to go to the Fan Park really early to ensure that we got good seats. Upon our arrival we noticed the influx of people on the boardwalk like we had never seen before, and street performers that seemed to line up along the sides one after another. To pass the time we went to the mini-theme park next door and rode the chair lift and got an awesome view that gave us a good view of northern Durban city limits (we could see the stadium really well) and literally passed over the Fan Park. Thousands accumulated and stormed the gates when they opened, a moment that reminded me a lot of waiting for Walt Disney World to open when I was a child.
The fan park filled up very quickly (45,000 people!!) and everyone watched with great reverence as the World Cup-the event South Africans had waited four years to come, was projected as a mere collection of memories during the closing ceremony. The dark clouds overhead sprinkled the crowd with raindrops but that just made the moment more intense as we watched Spain take the Cup. Fireworks went off on the nearby pier and an overwhelming electronica laser show started off the night of celebration. The moment was surreal, for the life of my I couldn’t grasp the fact that the whole event was over and the electric atmosphere was going to dwindle into nothing by the end of the week. And when I say dwindle, I mean to extremely regress.
Four days after the cup, on our last night in South Africa, a lot of the group went out to Florida Road, a place with a lot of restaurants and bars that was always packed to the sidewalks during the World Cup. To our surprise we got out and there was maybe 5 people we saw walking down the strip. There were maybe 10 people in the bar, and 20 people in the large restaurant next door. I had the chance to talk to a waiter at the restaurant and he said on a typical game night he was bringing in R6,000-R7,000 ($800-$900). Towards the end of his 10-hour shift that day, he had only made R50 ($7). This is the sort of sad reality that faces host cities. The economic impact is only temporary until they are able to attract investors that create jobs and provide an economic stimulus. But other than that shocking conversation, the night was pretty good and I was able to hang out and relax with some really great people I got to know over the course of the program.
The entire last week had been devoted towards school projects: a group visual essay titled “Youth of Africa: How they are overcoming adversity and are the future hope of this nation”, and my research paper where I talked about the World Cup’s role in combating South Africa’s (and other developing countries’) most preventable social issues, which involve reducing child mortality, improving maternal health, and combating HIV, AIDS, malaria, and other diseases. All I have to say is that if you think writing a research paper during the school year is hard, try writing one during your summer vacation, with minimal access to the internet, a broken printer, and in Africa of all places. If I ever complain about a paper, I have first hand experience in knowing that it could be worse.
I left for the airport on Friday at 6 a.m. and was all set to go but had to go back into the center to say goodbye to a few people. Arriving to the airport I went to get out of the van when I realized I was missing something very crucial- my luggage! Leaving the largest and most important piece of any traveler’s belongings seems to be something I would definitely do, sheesh. Luckily I had an extra hour to spare before my plane boarded. Other than that, my travels back to the states went smothly, as all of my flights were on time and went by in the blink of an eye. When I woke up with 5 hours of my 16 hour flight left, the couple in my row commended me for sleeping in the positions I slept in for 9 or so hours. In Atlanta I immediately resented being in the states because of the hot and humid weather I had so thankfully missed for 6 weeks. I went to get a drink at a shop and for a brief second though that I was going to buy a juice for R2.95. –A sign of missing Africa already.
Being home I am trying to take care of business that I missed and catch up on what’s happening in the world and in my community. I’m already noticing changes in how I live, but will post more about Africa’s impact and lessons learned early next week, if not later this week. Have a good one!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Home Stretch
Woke up to the sun rising over the Durban harbor this morning. We are staying in a convent for the next week, and being 3 stories up on top of a hill, facing the ocean really has its advantages ☺ Friday we went to Hluhluwe (pronounce shloo-shloowee) Game Drive and while listening to the Lion King Soundtrack saw several animals, the most exciting moments involved a rhino, a herd of giraffes, and an elephant that passed 10 feet right behind our van! The sunset behind the mountains was also very impressive, and never ceases to amaze me with its illuminating hues of pink, read and orange. We stayed overnight at a hostel in the deep woods, and were constantly having run-ins with bush babies. Don’t be fooled by their cuteness, they have a knack for hypnotizing you with their apparent innocence before taking your food, and jump around the roof at night so you can’t go to bed. On our way home to Durban we bought breakfast from some women on the side of the highway. I got a full pineapple, with the stalk and everything, but the pointy skin had been shaved away so I could eat it like a drumstick. This was possibly the best pineapple I’ve ever had, despite the sticky mess I got all over myself. Today I woke up at 7 a.m. without an alarm clock, a moment my parents have tried to get me to accomplish for 6 years now. This afternoon we are going out to the beach to hang out and make sure we get into the Fan Park for the final. It’s going to be so crazy and I have to make sure I buy a Spanish flag so I can wave it while I hear the Wavin’ Flag song one last time in South Africa. Víva España!
P.S: For those of you who know about my terrible mispronunciation problem (saying aneurism instead of mannerism, etc.) I have a new one for ya. I was in charge of telling the rest of the group where we were staying for the last week or so, and was like “Yeah, so we’re staying really close to the SIT office, in a mortuary place, but for nuns” (I for the life of me couldn’t think of the word convent and totally didn’t catch myself saying mortuary instead of monastery). Imagine how freaked some of the people were when they heard that we were staying in a place with dead nuns, hahaha… hope you had a good weekend!
P.S: For those of you who know about my terrible mispronunciation problem (saying aneurism instead of mannerism, etc.) I have a new one for ya. I was in charge of telling the rest of the group where we were staying for the last week or so, and was like “Yeah, so we’re staying really close to the SIT office, in a mortuary place, but for nuns” (I for the life of me couldn’t think of the word convent and totally didn’t catch myself saying mortuary instead of monastery). Imagine how freaked some of the people were when they heard that we were staying in a place with dead nuns, hahaha… hope you had a good weekend!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
A weem-ba-wop a weem-ba-wop
This past week I stayed in a rural area of aMacambini. We left on Sunday morning and arrived in the afternoon. I had two other roommates, and we were placed with a zulu family that had 3 sons, a daughter, 2 grandchildren, and several neighborhood kids that played on the soccer field in the front of our house. Upon arrival, we were greeted my Mama and Baba who speak no English but had their children translate for us. Their house was the largest of 5 other buildings/huts in the close cluster, and they had all the amenities we expected not to have-running water, an indoor porcelain toilet, beds to sleep on, and several kitchen appliances. They also had electricity, but it had been off since the morning. Luckily, the chief’s daughter was having her coming-of-age celebration that afternoon so we weren’t going to be around the house anyway. The celebration was everything I expected- men, women, and children in traditional Zulu dress, singing, dancing and chanting to the beats of their native tongue. The chief’s daughter and her friends were so excited to have us there, which was very assuring because we didn’t want to impose on her big event.
The next day we had to walk 45 minutes to and from the camp where we worked with local high school students. In groups we traveled to the Indian Ocean beachfront and played a game that was designated to us, and my group, who so proudly decided on the name Purple Prawns, played handball for a good 2 ½ hours until lunch. In the afternoon we had discussions about what it means to have healthy habits, and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These habits involved social skills, disease prevention, proper nutrition, exercise, and self-consciousness (having confidence and setting goals). That night we introduced the family to Nutella, and they almost had their own celebration for that glass jar that hardly survived to see breakfast the next day. Hannah, my roommate since day one was also one of my roommates here at the rural stay, and she brought the guitar home that night. Mama got down to acoustic renditions of “Baby” by Justin Beiber and “Forever” by Chris Brown as she maneuvered her voluptuous curves around the living room furniture. It was quite a hilarious sight to see! After that we received some good isizulu lessons from our siblings, because the older locals hassled us for not speaking zulu earlier in the day.
On Tuesday we had fish sticks and French fries for breakfast…I bet you can guess that I ate more corn flakes than the hot breakfast that morning. On our way to camp we surprised the locals with our capability to successfully acknowledge them in isiZulu. At camp we headed straight for the beach again and started off with yoga and meditation in the warm morning sunlight. We had an intense handball tournament that lasted the whole morning, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed going into the ocean for our halftime breaks. The afternoon had time for a follow-up discussion with our groups, where we got onto the topic of marriage. In Zulu culture there is a dowry of at least 11 cows (every cow costs about $1,000), and typically more is given through negotiation. One of my SIT peers was outraged that the day before, when a man had purposed that she marry him, that he only offered 2 cows, haha. True story! They couldn’t believe that there was no dowry in America, and that the divorce rate was above 50%. They claim that it is very rare and shameful to divorce in their culture. After discussion we played tug-o-war, said our goodbyes, and left for our last night at home.
After a long walk of munching on sugar cane, we got home and played soccer with about 30 neighborhood kids. I sat by the goal with the kids that didn’t want to play, and there was an awkward tension between me and the girls that crowded around behind me. All of a sudden I felt a poke on my arm and the girl who poked me ran away. Yes, they were scared to touch the skin of a white girl. I left my arm out and let them touch me. Then I let down my braided hair and they were even more taken aback by its soft, smooth texture. None of them spoke English, so I gained their friendship by teaching them hand-clapping games and performing cartwheels. I can’t speak for them because I wasn’t able to communicate with any of them, but by their big smiles and lingering hugs when I had to say goodbye, I think the fact that a foreigner (no less a white girl) took the initiative to play with and acknowledge them meant a lot.
Had the same dinner as the night before (Pap, cabbage, potatoes and peas) then watched the first semi-final game on the eldest brother’s projector screen. –You weren’t expecting that one, were ya? Woke up Wednesday morning to no electricity again, and played soccer outside with the usual group of boys (we call them “bafanabam” which means “my boys” in isiZulu) until our van came. Going back up to the house to collect my things my buti and sisi came out wearing the U of M t-shirts I had given them, and demanded we take pictures. I felt like I had become a part of their family in just 3 days, and I’m bummed we didn’t have more time to stay there. Today (Thursday) is my last day with my urban host family in Durban until we stay in a convent for the last a week. The rest of this trip is going to fly by so fast, I just know it.
The next day we had to walk 45 minutes to and from the camp where we worked with local high school students. In groups we traveled to the Indian Ocean beachfront and played a game that was designated to us, and my group, who so proudly decided on the name Purple Prawns, played handball for a good 2 ½ hours until lunch. In the afternoon we had discussions about what it means to have healthy habits, and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These habits involved social skills, disease prevention, proper nutrition, exercise, and self-consciousness (having confidence and setting goals). That night we introduced the family to Nutella, and they almost had their own celebration for that glass jar that hardly survived to see breakfast the next day. Hannah, my roommate since day one was also one of my roommates here at the rural stay, and she brought the guitar home that night. Mama got down to acoustic renditions of “Baby” by Justin Beiber and “Forever” by Chris Brown as she maneuvered her voluptuous curves around the living room furniture. It was quite a hilarious sight to see! After that we received some good isizulu lessons from our siblings, because the older locals hassled us for not speaking zulu earlier in the day.
On Tuesday we had fish sticks and French fries for breakfast…I bet you can guess that I ate more corn flakes than the hot breakfast that morning. On our way to camp we surprised the locals with our capability to successfully acknowledge them in isiZulu. At camp we headed straight for the beach again and started off with yoga and meditation in the warm morning sunlight. We had an intense handball tournament that lasted the whole morning, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed going into the ocean for our halftime breaks. The afternoon had time for a follow-up discussion with our groups, where we got onto the topic of marriage. In Zulu culture there is a dowry of at least 11 cows (every cow costs about $1,000), and typically more is given through negotiation. One of my SIT peers was outraged that the day before, when a man had purposed that she marry him, that he only offered 2 cows, haha. True story! They couldn’t believe that there was no dowry in America, and that the divorce rate was above 50%. They claim that it is very rare and shameful to divorce in their culture. After discussion we played tug-o-war, said our goodbyes, and left for our last night at home.
After a long walk of munching on sugar cane, we got home and played soccer with about 30 neighborhood kids. I sat by the goal with the kids that didn’t want to play, and there was an awkward tension between me and the girls that crowded around behind me. All of a sudden I felt a poke on my arm and the girl who poked me ran away. Yes, they were scared to touch the skin of a white girl. I left my arm out and let them touch me. Then I let down my braided hair and they were even more taken aback by its soft, smooth texture. None of them spoke English, so I gained their friendship by teaching them hand-clapping games and performing cartwheels. I can’t speak for them because I wasn’t able to communicate with any of them, but by their big smiles and lingering hugs when I had to say goodbye, I think the fact that a foreigner (no less a white girl) took the initiative to play with and acknowledge them meant a lot.
Had the same dinner as the night before (Pap, cabbage, potatoes and peas) then watched the first semi-final game on the eldest brother’s projector screen. –You weren’t expecting that one, were ya? Woke up Wednesday morning to no electricity again, and played soccer outside with the usual group of boys (we call them “bafanabam” which means “my boys” in isiZulu) until our van came. Going back up to the house to collect my things my buti and sisi came out wearing the U of M t-shirts I had given them, and demanded we take pictures. I felt like I had become a part of their family in just 3 days, and I’m bummed we didn’t have more time to stay there. Today (Thursday) is my last day with my urban host family in Durban until we stay in a convent for the last a week. The rest of this trip is going to fly by so fast, I just know it.
Friday, July 2, 2010
"Cookies so nice for breakfast, so nice" -Mama Dolly
Sorry it’s taken me a week to post, it’s been a combination of having a lot of lectures and higher priorities (a.k.a BIG research paper due in 2 weeks and slow internet connection). My topic is really cool though! I will be investigating how the World Cup has helped perpetuate the MDGs for South Africa, which are initiatives proposed by the UN for all developing nations, to be accomplished by 2015. Now for my quick re-cap of this past week:
Saturday was the USA vs. Ghana game. The group of 33 American SIT students went to the Durban Fan Fest (which is actually the biggest and most successful Fan Park not only of WC2010, but in all World Cup history!) and watched it amongst the South Africans who have been told to follow the “Africa United” campaign and support the Ghanaian Black Stars. Basically, our group was the target of directed celebration after both goals Ghana scored, and I have never felt so marginalized. On our ride home we talked about how uncomfortable it was to be a part of the minority, something I haven’t really experienced in the U.S. All the same, I knew going in to the match that I would be happy with either outcome, and I am behind Ghana to win it all.
Sunday was dreary so I watched one of my favorite movies Crash, with my host sister and her boyfriend, and we had a very insightful conversation about race. One of my favorite aspects of being here in a different country is being able to discuss our viewpoints about certain topics. Later that night I went to the movie theatre and saw the South African film “Survival Guide to South Africa”, a parody of South Africa’s social problems surrounding the world cup. Tuesday we had a practicum with high school kids and discussed how the facilities and opportunities to play and compete in sports differed from facilities and opportunities in America. Later in the afternoon we taught them how to play softball and had a mini tournament. Later we went out to watch the Japan/Paraguay and Spain/Portugal games, and found a restaurant with a hidden passage that opened up into a covered terrace with a fountain and projector screen that showed the matches -talk about a whole new kind of romance.
Wednesday night I showed my sister how to make chocolate chip cookies, and she kept looking in the oven, totally confused over what the heck a "cookie" was. With our cookies and some popcorn the family watched a movie and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the night. The next morning the breakfast table was set with all the regular foods and a big plate of cookies. Mama loved that the cookies could be eaten as a “sweet breakfast treat”, and by the time I came home they were all gone.
During the day on Thursday we had lecture then went to Chesterville Township to play soccer. We showed up at the field and were greeted by the boys of the Barcelona Project, a grassroots soccer team that were all about my age. We all knew it would be rough because we haven’t had the opportunity to exercise during any part of our 4-week stay since we arrived, and some didn’t even make it past warm-ups! But all in all the guys enjoyed having us because there are several D1/D2/D3 soccer players on the trip, and for those that have absolutely no soccer experience (me) they were amused at our attempts and insisted on calling me Torres instead of Tori. After that I went home and relaxed/fell asleep as my sister braided my whole head (it’s a part of my preparation for the rural stay). Today I woke up without a voice. Sickness is going around the group and I now have a scratchy sore throat to accompany the bug bites on my hand and face. I'm going to the doctor soon, so hopefully he'll make me feel better and I can enjoy my day a bit more! Phrase we say to stop complainers in the group: T.I.A.- This Is Africa (Get over it). Love.
Saturday was the USA vs. Ghana game. The group of 33 American SIT students went to the Durban Fan Fest (which is actually the biggest and most successful Fan Park not only of WC2010, but in all World Cup history!) and watched it amongst the South Africans who have been told to follow the “Africa United” campaign and support the Ghanaian Black Stars. Basically, our group was the target of directed celebration after both goals Ghana scored, and I have never felt so marginalized. On our ride home we talked about how uncomfortable it was to be a part of the minority, something I haven’t really experienced in the U.S. All the same, I knew going in to the match that I would be happy with either outcome, and I am behind Ghana to win it all.
Sunday was dreary so I watched one of my favorite movies Crash, with my host sister and her boyfriend, and we had a very insightful conversation about race. One of my favorite aspects of being here in a different country is being able to discuss our viewpoints about certain topics. Later that night I went to the movie theatre and saw the South African film “Survival Guide to South Africa”, a parody of South Africa’s social problems surrounding the world cup. Tuesday we had a practicum with high school kids and discussed how the facilities and opportunities to play and compete in sports differed from facilities and opportunities in America. Later in the afternoon we taught them how to play softball and had a mini tournament. Later we went out to watch the Japan/Paraguay and Spain/Portugal games, and found a restaurant with a hidden passage that opened up into a covered terrace with a fountain and projector screen that showed the matches -talk about a whole new kind of romance.
Wednesday night I showed my sister how to make chocolate chip cookies, and she kept looking in the oven, totally confused over what the heck a "cookie" was. With our cookies and some popcorn the family watched a movie and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the night. The next morning the breakfast table was set with all the regular foods and a big plate of cookies. Mama loved that the cookies could be eaten as a “sweet breakfast treat”, and by the time I came home they were all gone.
During the day on Thursday we had lecture then went to Chesterville Township to play soccer. We showed up at the field and were greeted by the boys of the Barcelona Project, a grassroots soccer team that were all about my age. We all knew it would be rough because we haven’t had the opportunity to exercise during any part of our 4-week stay since we arrived, and some didn’t even make it past warm-ups! But all in all the guys enjoyed having us because there are several D1/D2/D3 soccer players on the trip, and for those that have absolutely no soccer experience (me) they were amused at our attempts and insisted on calling me Torres instead of Tori. After that I went home and relaxed/fell asleep as my sister braided my whole head (it’s a part of my preparation for the rural stay). Today I woke up without a voice. Sickness is going around the group and I now have a scratchy sore throat to accompany the bug bites on my hand and face. I'm going to the doctor soon, so hopefully he'll make me feel better and I can enjoy my day a bit more! Phrase we say to stop complainers in the group: T.I.A.- This Is Africa (Get over it). Love.
Friday, June 25, 2010
A racial clarification
This is a short response to my Aunt’s question about “colored” people from my last entry. When I last posted I actually thought about putting in a little of how race is treated in South African society, but there was already a lot to say. Unlike in the U.S. where everyone strives to be politically correct when it comes to sensitive subjects, South Africans find race to be a joke. No one is offended if you call them black, white, colored, Afrikaan, or a dirty Nigerian. I’ve heard it in casual conversation between teenagers and 50-year-olds alike. South Africa’s past is full of racial tension, and they have been pretty desensitized to being classified by their race. Here black means you have relatively immediate indigenous heritage (Zulu, Afrikaan, Xhosa, or another tribe), colored means you are a mixture of black, Indian, or another ethnicity with dark skin. (Basically if you don’t have really black skin and nappy hair you are colored) and white is, well, self-explanatory, haha.
Also Hannah (my roommate) and I are making dinner with two other girls and their family tomorrow. Thank you for the suggestions, but we actually eat hamburgers quite often! I must admit, the burgers aren’t as satisfying because the “tomato sauce” and mustard have the consistency and transparency of syrup you’d put on ice cream. I definitely miss my American condiments. We are planning on making baked ziti with Caesar salad, garlic bread and chocolate chip cookies. They don’t have cookies here they have biscuits, and they are all terribly boring to eat. Food for thought: What would life be like if you could never have chocolate chip cookies ever again? –I’ll go start digging my grave right now…
Also Hannah (my roommate) and I are making dinner with two other girls and their family tomorrow. Thank you for the suggestions, but we actually eat hamburgers quite often! I must admit, the burgers aren’t as satisfying because the “tomato sauce” and mustard have the consistency and transparency of syrup you’d put on ice cream. I definitely miss my American condiments. We are planning on making baked ziti with Caesar salad, garlic bread and chocolate chip cookies. They don’t have cookies here they have biscuits, and they are all terribly boring to eat. Food for thought: What would life be like if you could never have chocolate chip cookies ever again? –I’ll go start digging my grave right now…
Monday, June 21, 2010
No such thing as all work and no play
This weekend was a much-needed break from a long week with Whizzkids and the constant business of our academic schedule. Friday I was picked up at 4 a.m. to head for Jburg for the USA vs. Slovenia match. We got there and did the “park and ride” service to the stadium, where we rode a double-decker bus. Of course we sat at the top of the bus, conducting patriotic songs like the country hit “Proud to be an American” and “God Bless America”, and they infamously carried on throughout the rest of our day. The game was a blast, it was fun meeting other Americans and sharing in the camaraderie of supporting our country. I haven’t been able to check out much media about the game itself, but I do know that I’m still celebrating that 3rd goal that would’ve won us the game.
Saturday we returned, and just hung out with the family. We watched Harry Potter and Hannah and I made the popcorn (the kind where the oil and kernels are separate) I brought from home. It was an entertaining sight to see us swirl the large pot, because I know for a fact that I cannot do it as handily as my dad does. But our family certainly loved the popcorn, and is excited for us to make the few other bags I brought.
Sunday we left for a resort along the South Coast, where the only plan was to arrive at noon and leave the next day. At the resort our chalets a.k.a mini houses were a 5 minute walk from the Indian Ocean beachfront, which is were everyone spent the afternoon playing football, getting tackled by waves, and exploring the rocky formations up the coast. We let loose at night, and I was up at 5:30 a.m. with some other people so we could catch the sunrise. We arrived at the beach a little early, but the view was spectacular as we sat atop the rocks watching the sun rise over the horizon, listening to the soundtrack of the crashing tide. Later there was a whale that came unusually close to the coast. He showed off flipping and splashing like Free Willy, it was really cool. The film crew for Blue Crush 3 (a surfing movie) and the Algeria soccer team was also staying in the same area as us. –Yeah, this place was legit.
It was interesting to see how the north coast, the coast right in the city is predominately black and colored people, and the south coast, in a more desolate and vacation-type area is predominately white people. It is so easy to identify what areas are affluent and what areas aren't. There were plenty more sellers of typical trinkets and such along south beach because the locals know north beach-goers are more likely to spend a few extra rand on some silly little toy or piece of jewelry.
I find myself going to bed earlier and earlier here, as I am usually conked out by 10 p.m. - and this is with me sleeping during every van ride (whether its 6 hours to Jburg or 30 minutes to the SIT offices). Tomorrow is the Algeria game, which should be even more fun than the Slovenia game. I can’t wait to use my new digital camera that I had to buy because my old one oh so conveniently decided to break itself beyond immediate repair. I used my camera at the beach this weekend, and after seeing some of the shots I snapped, considered dropping out of school to sell postcards in South Africa. The only postcards I can find here are of cartoon lions and rhinos, so if I can’t find some good scenic ones soon, I might have to set up shop to help others with this problem (haha, jk). Also, I want to make my family an “American dinner” soon. Anyone have suggestions? Let me know!
P.S. Happy Anniversary to my wonderful Mom and Dad, who have been married for 20 years! I would not be here if it weren’t for your continual love and support (meaning you keep putting money in my bank account while I'm here :P )
Saturday we returned, and just hung out with the family. We watched Harry Potter and Hannah and I made the popcorn (the kind where the oil and kernels are separate) I brought from home. It was an entertaining sight to see us swirl the large pot, because I know for a fact that I cannot do it as handily as my dad does. But our family certainly loved the popcorn, and is excited for us to make the few other bags I brought.
Sunday we left for a resort along the South Coast, where the only plan was to arrive at noon and leave the next day. At the resort our chalets a.k.a mini houses were a 5 minute walk from the Indian Ocean beachfront, which is were everyone spent the afternoon playing football, getting tackled by waves, and exploring the rocky formations up the coast. We let loose at night, and I was up at 5:30 a.m. with some other people so we could catch the sunrise. We arrived at the beach a little early, but the view was spectacular as we sat atop the rocks watching the sun rise over the horizon, listening to the soundtrack of the crashing tide. Later there was a whale that came unusually close to the coast. He showed off flipping and splashing like Free Willy, it was really cool. The film crew for Blue Crush 3 (a surfing movie) and the Algeria soccer team was also staying in the same area as us. –Yeah, this place was legit.
It was interesting to see how the north coast, the coast right in the city is predominately black and colored people, and the south coast, in a more desolate and vacation-type area is predominately white people. It is so easy to identify what areas are affluent and what areas aren't. There were plenty more sellers of typical trinkets and such along south beach because the locals know north beach-goers are more likely to spend a few extra rand on some silly little toy or piece of jewelry.
I find myself going to bed earlier and earlier here, as I am usually conked out by 10 p.m. - and this is with me sleeping during every van ride (whether its 6 hours to Jburg or 30 minutes to the SIT offices). Tomorrow is the Algeria game, which should be even more fun than the Slovenia game. I can’t wait to use my new digital camera that I had to buy because my old one oh so conveniently decided to break itself beyond immediate repair. I used my camera at the beach this weekend, and after seeing some of the shots I snapped, considered dropping out of school to sell postcards in South Africa. The only postcards I can find here are of cartoon lions and rhinos, so if I can’t find some good scenic ones soon, I might have to set up shop to help others with this problem (haha, jk). Also, I want to make my family an “American dinner” soon. Anyone have suggestions? Let me know!
P.S. Happy Anniversary to my wonderful Mom and Dad, who have been married for 20 years! I would not be here if it weren’t for your continual love and support (meaning you keep putting money in my bank account while I'm here :P )
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Paparazzi
So Whizzkids this week was really fun! We were placed in a township called Umlazi, and the scene of the football field was so picturesque. The dusty field had no trace of grass because of the constant trampling of footballers, and it sat atop a bluff that overlooked the surrounding neighborhoods. The kids were darling, they danced to hip-hop and sang any song related to the world cup. I was very impressed with their knowledge about HIV/AIDS, but us volunteers only knew this because we had zulu translators –a.k.a teachers from a local school. Yup, the kids’ English was pretty poor for the most part, and we had trouble getting them to understand us, so we had teachers and volunteers help with that. Today we went for a run down the street to pick up some “fat cooks” (AMAAAAZING pastry balls-just like dough boys) that were less than 20 cents a pop. Everything is so ridiculously cheap here, I could eat 2 of those, 2 cups of rooibos tea be satisfyingly full and score a meal for under a dollar. Crossing the street after getting the fat cooks I had my first really shocking encounter with African culture. Here citizens are allowed to carry guns for self-defense, and we saw an ordinary man carrying a pump-action shotgun with a device that rested on his shoulder. This gun was big enough to stop me in my tracks. I was later informed that he used it to secure the bus station that was right there because they once had an incident where there was a very violent drive-by shooting, and they had time to go by, go up the hill and come back without any safety interference for at least 5 minutes. I know its probably not what you want to hear while I’m here, but we take high safety precautions, so please understand that I am just expressing my disbelief to the reality of this country. The Dutch National Broadcasting company and their radio/TV crew showed up to the camp today, and it was kinda humorous because all I do is organize materials (balls, papers, kits, etc.) and when they showed up I was lugging things around with a stopwatch and whistle around my neck so I looked all official and in charge. They introduced themselves to me and started asking me questions and I played along until I couldn’t answer any more questions. I think they also lost faith in my importance when I said I had only been with Wizzkids for 4 days, haha. I am going to Joburg tomorrow for the Slovenia game, and I never thought I would have to buy winter clothing in Africa, but with a low of 23 degrees Fahrenheit outside and 2 cotton sweaters in my luggage, I find it necessary. Sunday we finally get to hang out as one big group again (we were separated into 2 different football camps this week) in South Beach, and are staying near a location where the movie Blood Diamond was filmed- should be fun!! Also, just in case you were hoping for an image of how awesome this experience is for me, check out #30 on this link. I’m pretty stoked, I WAS IN THE GLOBE!!! I’ll be signing autographs when I get home ;)
Monday, June 14, 2010
"So wave your [American] flag" -K'Naan
Friday was the opening day for the World Cup, and we headed to the Gateway Mall to start off our day. It was obvious that Gateway was where all the richer people shopped, as the mall had 3 stories and multiple high-end shops. At one point I joined a dance competition after learning the diski dance, and witnessed a jubilant parade of Bafana Bafana supporters that caused a ruckus in the congested mall walkways. It was a morning full of yellow jerseys and vuvuzela echoes, propelling the electric mood into full force. Leaving the mall we went to the Fan Park at the North Beach beachfront, which quickly filled to its 25,000 person capacity. Our group was situated right in the middle towards the front for both the opening ceremony and opening match that they projected onto a jumbo screen. My empathy got the best of me as the emotions of the locals ran high during the powerful opening ceremony. Looking like a bum with teary eyes, beach-blown hear and no Bafana Bafana gear, some generous guys outfitted me with a South African tattoo and armband, and life was a party from there on out. I cannot describe in words the experience of sharing in that joyous moment with the proud Africans, it is an experience I will never forget. I will also never forgive myself for being so hungry at the halftime break that I went to get food and missed the first goal scored in WC2010, by Bafana Bafana. I stood there with my falafel sandwich in one hand, and my South African flag in the other, dancing in the sand at the Fan Park as supporters rejoiced, embraced, vuvuzela’d (I’m officially making that a verb) and literally ripped their shirts off like the Incredible Hulk. Although the match ended in a draw, everyone left in high spirits.
Saturday was spent at an urban facility that had a big field as we went through training for a program called Whizzkids. It’s a grassroots soccer program that teaches kids about HIV/AIDS and healthy lifestyle choices while using various aspects of soccer as a vehicle for knowledge. Whizzkids is a part of FIFA’s “Football for Hope” initiative, and as a part of volunteering for the week-long camp we get to take all of the kids (there’s about 100 kids/program, and we’re running 2 programs in the same week) to a match at the Durban Stadium, courtesy of Sony Entertainment. I am so excited for the program, especially as I will be helping at the Umlazi camp, which is situated in a township. FYI - this is the best time to do the camp because although it is winter and kids are usually in school, all South African children are on holiday for the duration of the World Cup. The justification for this is that traffic on the roads and highways should decrease significantly and allow traffic traveling to and from games to have a quicker/more efficient trip.
Later Saturday night we went back to the Fan Park for our USA vs. England game. It was totally different from the day before because we were wearing our own country’s colors, more enthusiastic in our cheers, and got to sing our national anthem at the front of the park for all the foreigners to hear. Although that enthusiasm quickly subsided after England’s goal, we soon were able to shove our pathetic but nonetheless game-tying goal in their face, and it felt gooood. I believe my favorite quote of the night was said from a random USA fan to an England fan I was talking to which was “Congratulations, man! Your team is just as good as us, and you created the sport” Today is also my host-dad's birthday, so i cannot wait to go home and eat. Mama Dolly is taking great care of me and Hannah (my roommate), and tonight will be a celebration. Look for me on tv, I should be wearing a lime bandana at the Spain vs. Switzerland game surrounded by a bunch of little kids, and wearing my flag cape at the USA vs. Slovenia game. Hope all is well in the states!
Saturday was spent at an urban facility that had a big field as we went through training for a program called Whizzkids. It’s a grassroots soccer program that teaches kids about HIV/AIDS and healthy lifestyle choices while using various aspects of soccer as a vehicle for knowledge. Whizzkids is a part of FIFA’s “Football for Hope” initiative, and as a part of volunteering for the week-long camp we get to take all of the kids (there’s about 100 kids/program, and we’re running 2 programs in the same week) to a match at the Durban Stadium, courtesy of Sony Entertainment. I am so excited for the program, especially as I will be helping at the Umlazi camp, which is situated in a township. FYI - this is the best time to do the camp because although it is winter and kids are usually in school, all South African children are on holiday for the duration of the World Cup. The justification for this is that traffic on the roads and highways should decrease significantly and allow traffic traveling to and from games to have a quicker/more efficient trip.
Later Saturday night we went back to the Fan Park for our USA vs. England game. It was totally different from the day before because we were wearing our own country’s colors, more enthusiastic in our cheers, and got to sing our national anthem at the front of the park for all the foreigners to hear. Although that enthusiasm quickly subsided after England’s goal, we soon were able to shove our pathetic but nonetheless game-tying goal in their face, and it felt gooood. I believe my favorite quote of the night was said from a random USA fan to an England fan I was talking to which was “Congratulations, man! Your team is just as good as us, and you created the sport” Today is also my host-dad's birthday, so i cannot wait to go home and eat. Mama Dolly is taking great care of me and Hannah (my roommate), and tonight will be a celebration. Look for me on tv, I should be wearing a lime bandana at the Spain vs. Switzerland game surrounded by a bunch of little kids, and wearing my flag cape at the USA vs. Slovenia game. Hope all is well in the states!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Durban!
Left Jburg early Monday morning and in true Tori fashion my alarm didn’t go off. The only reason I made the bus was because the maid walked in on me and screamed because I frightened her as I turned over in my bed, haha. After a long drive to Durban, we arrived at a conference center in the “Land of a Thousand Hills” and we literally had this view when we opened our doors in the morning. That night we went to a local shack and drank smoothies while watching the sunset behind the hilly landscape. We were given a lecture about the State of the Nation from South Africa’s most prominent political scientist John Daniel, and learned a lot about their political parties, history, and current social issues. The next day all the students were divided up into groups, taken into downtown Durban and dropped off to find our way back to a meeting point. It is funny to walk down the streets and get so much attention. People run up from behind and stop us, or literally run into the middle of traffic to ask where we are from. We say “America!” and after welcoming us with an enthusiastic smile, they make a comment about how lucky we are to be from America or how they want to go back to the states with us. One of the markets reminded me of Chinatown, with all the knock-offs and haggling, but the atmosphere was open and lively as small kids in Bafana Bafana jerseys kicked around an empty water bottle, emulating the players they admire. Later that night the group ventured to SunCoast, which is a casino/resort right on the beach, only a couple blocks from the Durban stadium, and toasted to the program and good times as we ate one last dinner as a big group.
Yesterday we got assignments for our host families, and I am rooming with another girl in the program. Our family is Mama Dolly and Jack Bezuidenhout (they are married, as Dolly has lived in Durban all her life and Jack grew up in the rural country in the Zulu community), with their children Michelle who is 18 and Michael who is 16. They run a school that facilitates learning for people that did not pass or never took the Matric (admissions test for college, similar to our ACT or SAT) and a Bed and Breakfast, and Mama Dolly also caters for both places and community events. Hannah and I are very fortunate to live with such an affluent family, as we have no restriction on our water usage, bathe using a shower (not a cup and a bucket like some of the other students), and get our own room with separate beds (our room is actually in the B&B itself, and a student from Cape Town is staying across from us right now as well).
My misconception about Africa was that the poverty was worse than the inequality, figuring that the end of apartheid dissolved a lot of those problems. But if there’s anything I’ve learned it’s that poverty is slowly decreasing but the social inequality is continuously becoming more and more drastic. One minute you are looking at large, luxurious houses on the left with security fences, BMW’s in the driveways, and luscious green yards, and the next minute, or sometimes at the same time, you witness a mile or so of township housing (slums) across the way where the largest structure is 12x12, the roof is a piece of sheet metal, and the shacks have at most 3 feet between each other. It is extremely powerful and disheartening that social classes at both ends of the spectrum can live in such juxtaposition. I love the drive to my house because it has many sights like the one I just described, and it humbles me every time. One of the most humbling things you can do is think of all that you have, all you can lose, and all that you take for granted, and just be thankful.
Yesterday we got assignments for our host families, and I am rooming with another girl in the program. Our family is Mama Dolly and Jack Bezuidenhout (they are married, as Dolly has lived in Durban all her life and Jack grew up in the rural country in the Zulu community), with their children Michelle who is 18 and Michael who is 16. They run a school that facilitates learning for people that did not pass or never took the Matric (admissions test for college, similar to our ACT or SAT) and a Bed and Breakfast, and Mama Dolly also caters for both places and community events. Hannah and I are very fortunate to live with such an affluent family, as we have no restriction on our water usage, bathe using a shower (not a cup and a bucket like some of the other students), and get our own room with separate beds (our room is actually in the B&B itself, and a student from Cape Town is staying across from us right now as well).
My misconception about Africa was that the poverty was worse than the inequality, figuring that the end of apartheid dissolved a lot of those problems. But if there’s anything I’ve learned it’s that poverty is slowly decreasing but the social inequality is continuously becoming more and more drastic. One minute you are looking at large, luxurious houses on the left with security fences, BMW’s in the driveways, and luscious green yards, and the next minute, or sometimes at the same time, you witness a mile or so of township housing (slums) across the way where the largest structure is 12x12, the roof is a piece of sheet metal, and the shacks have at most 3 feet between each other. It is extremely powerful and disheartening that social classes at both ends of the spectrum can live in such juxtaposition. I love the drive to my house because it has many sights like the one I just described, and it humbles me every time. One of the most humbling things you can do is think of all that you have, all you can lose, and all that you take for granted, and just be thankful.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
so. different.
Johannesburg is so different, but in the best way possible. Every one is kind, and just wants to wave and smile and make sure you are loving Africa to the fullest extent. I don't mind long car rides because the scenery is so intriguing and passing vehicles are entertaining. I'm just getting use to the whole driving on the left side of the road thing, but all of the larger vehicles that pass our caravan are always waving at us, asking where we are from and carrying on the conversation until one of the vehicles pulls away. One of the coolest vehicles passed us today: It was a bus taxi that had South African flags and mementos plastered on the windows-at least the windows that weren't open with limbs hanging out. As the literally bouncing bus passed, we heard the chanting of "Bafana Bafana!!" and vuvuzela's piercing the air to the beat of a popular African song that is always on the radio. I am certain there is no lack of support for Bafana Bafana, and I'm pretty sure i'll be bringing back something that supports them too. Yesterday we went to the Apartheid Museum that had a Nelson Mandela exhibit. Today we took a day trip to Soweto. It included visits to Soccer City (the main World Cup stadium), views unlike any in the world, the Hector Pieterson Museum, and Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu's houses. I have learned so much about Africa and their culture just within the past weekend I've been here, it is truly a remarkable place to witness. I also love all of the other students that are on the trip. Everyone is pretty outgoing and fun, and wants to get the most out of this experience. It was already brought up tonight how much it's gonna stink to go home and separate in the states. -But anyway, tonight is our last night staying in this random monastery in Johannesburg until as we leave for Durban in the morning. I have been having some meat here and there, as the main staples at our meals have been salad, sweet potatoes, and rice.
I wish I could go into detail about all of my fun and heinous experiences, but I can't. I would love to blog everyday about what I've done, but internet is terribly expensive here. Apparently it costs the equivalent of $1 for every page loaded or re-loaded, which means just getting on here and making a post is going to cost at least $5. So I don't know how frequent my posts are going to be from here on out, but there are plenty of internet cafes in Durban so I hope to make it at least once a week. 4 DAYS UNTIL THE WORLD CUP!!!!
I wish I could go into detail about all of my fun and heinous experiences, but I can't. I would love to blog everyday about what I've done, but internet is terribly expensive here. Apparently it costs the equivalent of $1 for every page loaded or re-loaded, which means just getting on here and making a post is going to cost at least $5. So I don't know how frequent my posts are going to be from here on out, but there are plenty of internet cafes in Durban so I hope to make it at least once a week. 4 DAYS UNTIL THE WORLD CUP!!!!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Life on and around 3rd
I'm here! My flight in Atlanta was delayed, and then we had to wait behind 16 other planes that were trying to leave the runway before my plane could depart. It was ridiculous to see the line of jets, but I am somewhat proud to say that every flight I have been on thus far has been delayed (that's 5 flights people!). I liked the longer flight soooo much more than the short 1 1/2 hour one because I was fed well, watched good movies, sat next to some awesome people, and saw Akon in first class.
Arriving in Africa, there was nothing but seemingly red barren desert and mountains, a terrain that was intricately designed by the elements that sweep across it. Because it is winter here, when we arrived the sun had set and it was dark, but it was still a lovely sight to see, as Johannesburg is a very large and wide-spread city, and I've been informed its a lot bigger than L.A. The airport was lovely, and I just stood in the welcome hallway, staring at the vibrant reds, greens and yellows that flooded the walls and assembled as World Cup designs. World cup logos, emblems, and images were everywhere- walls, support beams, doors, coke machines, luggage carts, the floor... it was certainly a neat place to experience my first encounter of South African culture.
I was able to find my driver that took me to my hotel, and he informed me a lot about the local culture and dangers of the area. I got to my hotel, Life on 3rd, and met Damien, the manager that I've been in contact with. He is hilarious and very hospitable, and put me and another guy in a honeymoon suite-style room with a double bed and toilet and shower in the wide open. He assumed we had met on some internet dating site because Ross (the guy I planned this part of the trip with) told him that we had never met before. That was a good laugh. He also did the whole honeymoon suite-style room with the other 2 guys that are in the program with us, but luckily Damien switched us to a different room.
We went out to get me some dinner and I discovered the restaurant employees to be overwhelmingly inviting, to the point of pushiness. Every restaurant we walked past they gestured toward us that they had a table of 4 waiting for us, right then. While eating dinner I mentioned that I liked the architecture, and the guys laughed. "You mean the barbed wire and electrical fences? Yeah, that does add a nice touch.." they said. It was dark out so I haven't seen the houses in the daylight, but I could certainly hear the humming of the electricity as we walked back. As I paid more attention, I noticed everything is high security-ADT and security signs are ubiquitous.
It is 10:50 p.m. here, and my clock on my computer is really throwing me off. It says that it's 4:50 p.m. Damien was surprised and confused as to why we "little roosters" weren't going out tonight. Everyone is still feeling a bit jet lagged, and I am going to go to sleep because I hardly slept on my flight. We also have a full itinerary tomorrow. We are getting up early to eat some special breakfast that Damien is making us (some dish baked with a lot of meat and milk and eggs poured over the top of it, as well as pancake bread with apricot jam), heading out to the Cradle of Humankind Caves (oldest on earth I believe?), then to Lion/Crocodile park, and finally meeting up with our program at the airport. Should be fun!
Arriving in Africa, there was nothing but seemingly red barren desert and mountains, a terrain that was intricately designed by the elements that sweep across it. Because it is winter here, when we arrived the sun had set and it was dark, but it was still a lovely sight to see, as Johannesburg is a very large and wide-spread city, and I've been informed its a lot bigger than L.A. The airport was lovely, and I just stood in the welcome hallway, staring at the vibrant reds, greens and yellows that flooded the walls and assembled as World Cup designs. World cup logos, emblems, and images were everywhere- walls, support beams, doors, coke machines, luggage carts, the floor... it was certainly a neat place to experience my first encounter of South African culture.
I was able to find my driver that took me to my hotel, and he informed me a lot about the local culture and dangers of the area. I got to my hotel, Life on 3rd, and met Damien, the manager that I've been in contact with. He is hilarious and very hospitable, and put me and another guy in a honeymoon suite-style room with a double bed and toilet and shower in the wide open. He assumed we had met on some internet dating site because Ross (the guy I planned this part of the trip with) told him that we had never met before. That was a good laugh. He also did the whole honeymoon suite-style room with the other 2 guys that are in the program with us, but luckily Damien switched us to a different room.
We went out to get me some dinner and I discovered the restaurant employees to be overwhelmingly inviting, to the point of pushiness. Every restaurant we walked past they gestured toward us that they had a table of 4 waiting for us, right then. While eating dinner I mentioned that I liked the architecture, and the guys laughed. "You mean the barbed wire and electrical fences? Yeah, that does add a nice touch.." they said. It was dark out so I haven't seen the houses in the daylight, but I could certainly hear the humming of the electricity as we walked back. As I paid more attention, I noticed everything is high security-ADT and security signs are ubiquitous.
It is 10:50 p.m. here, and my clock on my computer is really throwing me off. It says that it's 4:50 p.m. Damien was surprised and confused as to why we "little roosters" weren't going out tonight. Everyone is still feeling a bit jet lagged, and I am going to go to sleep because I hardly slept on my flight. We also have a full itinerary tomorrow. We are getting up early to eat some special breakfast that Damien is making us (some dish baked with a lot of meat and milk and eggs poured over the top of it, as well as pancake bread with apricot jam), heading out to the Cradle of Humankind Caves (oldest on earth I believe?), then to Lion/Crocodile park, and finally meeting up with our program at the airport. Should be fun!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Here goes nothing... or, everything? I don't understand that phrase.
I am FINALLY out of Grand Rapids! I feel like I was only moments away from overthrowing all airport/airline staff and flying a stinking plane out of there myself! An idea of how bad it was: flight originally scheduled for 6:45 a.m. was delayed 2 times, so I went to the airport at 9:15 or so because my flight wasn't going to depart until 10:45 a.m. Waiting at the gate, a plane from Chicago pulled in because it was diverted from Detroit due to bad weather. My plane was further delayed until 11:30 because of mechanical errors, and the flight leaving for Atlanta at 11:40 was supposed leave after mine-10 minutes, big whoop. Either way, I know my original flight didn't leave before the 11:40 one, it's actually probably still there. I quickly left the pity party of Detroit-bound people who had to wait a "long time" for parts to come in because their aircraft was "severely damaged, and switched flights. The flight was rather smooth, and above all the clouds was a vastly sunny sky. However since I’ve arrived in ATL I have felt my nerves take over.
I don’t know if it’s the reality that I am going to a strange country for 6 weeks, or that I am going to be on a 22 hour flight and hardly survived the 1 ½ hour one from Grand Rapids (headache and loss of appetite/not happy tummy), but something’s up. I'm probably even nervous about the guy from the UK that I contacted though craigslist who has good FIFA tickets… he “has proof” that they are authentic and can meet up in Durban, but he is asking $350 for them, twice as much as face value. Hmm… I should probably talk to someone about this before I get too excited about the potential purchase.
Anyway, it is 5:40 p.m. and I am in terminal E16, looking out the window at the jet that is taking us to Johannesburg. Its jets are approximately 3 times longer than me in diameter. Crazy. I also couldn’t help but smile as I sat down in the gate area. There’s families that obviously have some sort of African heritage, and it shows with their bright eclectic outfits and distinctive accents. I could for the most part tell who was going there for the world cup because I counted 6 futbol jerseys out of the probable 30 of us waiting. I am just a mixed bag of emotions. Going to walk around to get out of this funk, maybe skip or do some jumping jacks before I have to board this heinous plane ride…haha
(30 minutes later) Now I'm in a cafe. I’m too cheap to pay for wifi in the airport, so I’ve been doing all communicating though my phone, and looking around for free internet (Dad I told you that data plan would pay off!). I thought one of the bars would have free wifi, and I got to Sojourner's Cafe, in hope it would be free, but it wasn't. The waiter noticed my subtle frustration, and with my kissing up I was able to get the locked password so I could briefly get on here. Derric, your hospitality and charm has awarded you a mention in my post, you should be proud of yourself! :P Anyway, Dad just called and he confirmed my gut feeling that I should get going because my plane departs in an hour.
Next time I post I should be at my destination! :):):)
I don’t know if it’s the reality that I am going to a strange country for 6 weeks, or that I am going to be on a 22 hour flight and hardly survived the 1 ½ hour one from Grand Rapids (headache and loss of appetite/not happy tummy), but something’s up. I'm probably even nervous about the guy from the UK that I contacted though craigslist who has good FIFA tickets… he “has proof” that they are authentic and can meet up in Durban, but he is asking $350 for them, twice as much as face value. Hmm… I should probably talk to someone about this before I get too excited about the potential purchase.
Anyway, it is 5:40 p.m. and I am in terminal E16, looking out the window at the jet that is taking us to Johannesburg. Its jets are approximately 3 times longer than me in diameter. Crazy. I also couldn’t help but smile as I sat down in the gate area. There’s families that obviously have some sort of African heritage, and it shows with their bright eclectic outfits and distinctive accents. I could for the most part tell who was going there for the world cup because I counted 6 futbol jerseys out of the probable 30 of us waiting. I am just a mixed bag of emotions. Going to walk around to get out of this funk, maybe skip or do some jumping jacks before I have to board this heinous plane ride…haha
(30 minutes later) Now I'm in a cafe. I’m too cheap to pay for wifi in the airport, so I’ve been doing all communicating though my phone, and looking around for free internet (Dad I told you that data plan would pay off!). I thought one of the bars would have free wifi, and I got to Sojourner's Cafe, in hope it would be free, but it wasn't. The waiter noticed my subtle frustration, and with my kissing up I was able to get the locked password so I could briefly get on here. Derric, your hospitality and charm has awarded you a mention in my post, you should be proud of yourself! :P Anyway, Dad just called and he confirmed my gut feeling that I should get going because my plane departs in an hour.
Next time I post I should be at my destination! :):):)
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
you can't see me.
Arrival in Johannesburg is just short of 2 hours. The flying experience has been eventful and I've met some great people! -That's probably what I would be saying if I was on flight 591, in the air about to land. But I'm not on that plane. I haven't even gone airborne yet. My flight at 3:45 p.m. yesterday was delayed 10 minutes, then half an hour, until 4:30. We boarded, and got to the end of the runway, until our pilot came on overhead announcing that we were ground-stopped for 45 minutes, in which case they stopped the jet engines and ran the air conditioning. The next announcement was that we had to wait for another half hour. I was fine with the wait because I had an emergency exit seat and had fun making small talk about wacky inventions like the the telekinetic obstacle course and the garden yeti with an army dude next to me with old-school cartoon tattoos flooding his left arm. Then another announcement was made saying we were delayed for another hour, but we were going to drive back to the terminal and get off. By that time I had missed my connecting flight from Detroit to Amsterdam, and by the time we were allowed to board the plane again there was no way I would be able to make my flight from Amsterdam to Johannesburg in time either. Waiting in line behind the 30 or so people that got off before me, it wasn't until 7:45 when I was finally able to get to the counter to reschedule my flight. Operating as a mediator between my Dad and the gate attendant, I easily became stressed and exhausted, and came home so we could just call Delta and get a new itinerary. That was an experience within itself, and I'll just leave it at that. But now I fly out tomorrow morning, at 6:45 a.m. to Atlanta where I have a 10 hour layover, and a nearly 22-hour flight straight into Johannesburg.
Today has been very redeeming compared to yesterday. I slept for a straight 13 hours, and have enjoyed the mild weather and sunshine. I've laid low, trying to act as if I'm not in Grand Rapids (because if I had it my way I wouldn't be here right now). Thinking about today, I think this must be how an illegal immigrant feels. I'm not working or anything, but I don't want anyone to know that I am here and I am avoiding anyone knowing that. In a way I also feel like I'm not supposed to be here because I've already been sent off and everyone already said their goodbyes and expects me to be gone. I thought about going to the YMCA tonight, pursuing the thrill of being discovered by someone that knows I'm not supposed to be here. But then again, Glee is on in an hour. I decided that I need to satisfy my last bit of Gleekiness before I go, and that washing my jeans I spilled my shake on last night is necessary, as I plan on wearing the same outfit I've worn yesterday and today tomorrow...
Today has been very redeeming compared to yesterday. I slept for a straight 13 hours, and have enjoyed the mild weather and sunshine. I've laid low, trying to act as if I'm not in Grand Rapids (because if I had it my way I wouldn't be here right now). Thinking about today, I think this must be how an illegal immigrant feels. I'm not working or anything, but I don't want anyone to know that I am here and I am avoiding anyone knowing that. In a way I also feel like I'm not supposed to be here because I've already been sent off and everyone already said their goodbyes and expects me to be gone. I thought about going to the YMCA tonight, pursuing the thrill of being discovered by someone that knows I'm not supposed to be here. But then again, Glee is on in an hour. I decided that I need to satisfy my last bit of Gleekiness before I go, and that washing my jeans I spilled my shake on last night is necessary, as I plan on wearing the same outfit I've worn yesterday and today tomorrow...
Monday, May 31, 2010
monday.
Memorial Day. All I see is grey sky and mute colors as raindrops blur the scenery outside the vast window. The weather is definitely living up to its dreary Monday stigma. I’m glad I’m not stranded in a town due to failed plans of attending a parade, or at home looking for the neighbor’s dog that ran off under my family's watch because he was spooked by the thunderstorm that came through this morning. I’m glad I’m here, at Gerald R. Ford International Airport, watching my flight get delayed, and wallowing in the fact that I am about to embark on this adventure. It will be interesting... passing through security with no problems was a really big achievement for me, if that is any indication of obstacles and challenges to come, haha. The only thing I can do now is wait, and see when my flight leaves. Right now it has been delayed from 3:45 to 4:30, meaning I will miss my flight in Detroit but can catch a later one that will put me in Amsterdam 45 minutes before that flight leaves for Johannesburg. I kinda hope flights get really delayed and I have to get put up in a hotel in Amsterdam, or connect in London, fly to Amsterdam the next day, then fly to Johannesburg. –Ahh I am dreaming. I start to think silly things when I am deprived of sleep. I only got 30 minutes of shut eye, because as much as I believed my conscience to be relaxed and mellow about this trip, I can’t deny the sporadic moments where my whole body tensed and my toes sprung me off the floor in excitement, keeping my adrenaline running and me awake. Finally after falling asleep at 6:30 in the morning, a loud thunderstorm rolled through and my Dad incessantly yelled at me to get out of bed. So much for sleep! Well, it seems like we are boarding, so I’m going to get going. But Happy Memorial Day to everyone, ~Love You Grandpa Raymond, Rest in Peace and Thank You for your service.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
5 days!!!
So, where did the past month go? This far into summer, school seems like a distant memory. But when I try to remember what I have done for the past month, all of my days run together. I can hardly differentiate yesterday from a week ago.
In part, I believe I feel this way because everything I have done in the past month is all the same. I wake up, and get on my computer. I check Facebook to see if there are any new posts on the message walls for SIT or messages in my inbox from others going on the trip. Once I finish that, I galivant around on the internet, searching for cheap travel and lodging of which I am responsible for the first couple days after I arrive in South Africa. Then, I add to the crazy relaying of information between the other students going on the trip.
This is harder than it sounds, as not everyone is constantly checking fb, and even if they are, you have to constantly bombard the message boards with questions of where people are flying from, when people are arriving, where they are thinking about staying, if they would be interesting in boarding up together and the like. Then, once plans are somewhat set, of course there are questions that arise and answers that are communicated from various sources to various people on fb. One thing I have discovered: different countries have their own way of running things, creating stress and uncertainty about the arrangements for the couple days prior to the beginning of the trip. Of course I could've taken the easy route and stayed at the hostel like the program suggested, but I have a keenness of making things difficult for myself.
When I finish my computer duties I run errands -whether that be going to the library to pick up books about Africa and soccer, or to Salvation Army to get some shabby clothing for the trip. Getting back home I check the internet again, and by that time my siblings are home, and I either take them places, play with them, or go to work. Then, at night, I try to get some of the required reading (there were 2 books that were assigned for the trip) done. Throw in some zumba classes, play dates with friends, episodes of Glee, and eventful weekends, and I've got myself 3 full weeks of non-stop craziness that have lead up to this point.
Would I have it any other way? Heck no. Bring it WC2010, I'm ready.
In part, I believe I feel this way because everything I have done in the past month is all the same. I wake up, and get on my computer. I check Facebook to see if there are any new posts on the message walls for SIT or messages in my inbox from others going on the trip. Once I finish that, I galivant around on the internet, searching for cheap travel and lodging of which I am responsible for the first couple days after I arrive in South Africa. Then, I add to the crazy relaying of information between the other students going on the trip.
This is harder than it sounds, as not everyone is constantly checking fb, and even if they are, you have to constantly bombard the message boards with questions of where people are flying from, when people are arriving, where they are thinking about staying, if they would be interesting in boarding up together and the like. Then, once plans are somewhat set, of course there are questions that arise and answers that are communicated from various sources to various people on fb. One thing I have discovered: different countries have their own way of running things, creating stress and uncertainty about the arrangements for the couple days prior to the beginning of the trip. Of course I could've taken the easy route and stayed at the hostel like the program suggested, but I have a keenness of making things difficult for myself.
When I finish my computer duties I run errands -whether that be going to the library to pick up books about Africa and soccer, or to Salvation Army to get some shabby clothing for the trip. Getting back home I check the internet again, and by that time my siblings are home, and I either take them places, play with them, or go to work. Then, at night, I try to get some of the required reading (there were 2 books that were assigned for the trip) done. Throw in some zumba classes, play dates with friends, episodes of Glee, and eventful weekends, and I've got myself 3 full weeks of non-stop craziness that have lead up to this point.
Would I have it any other way? Heck no. Bring it WC2010, I'm ready.
Monday, May 17, 2010
what in the world is "Ke Nako", you ask?
Ke Nako is the title of my page. Translated, it means "It is time". The phrase is derived from Sotho, one of the 11 official languages spoken in South Africa, and the national language of Lesotho. It is a part of the slogan for the World Cup- Ke Nako-Celebrate Africa's Humanity.
In my opinion, this slogan could not be any more correct. Africa has had a rather troubling history plagued with chaos, incivility, war and destruction that seems to overshadow the slightest bit of accomplishment that has been achieved. It is time that they show the progress and development that has occurred, using South Africa as an international stage. By hosting the world's largest event, the African continent will be able to prove that they are a land rich in eagerness and humility, not a barren one that is so often portrayed by the media. K'naan's performance of the theme song Wavin' Flag is so awesome, and I truly believe that this sort of passion, pride, and energy is going to be evident everywhere I go over there. I wish I could "blue skadoo" right into that video, haha.
Another reason why I thought Ke Nako was fitting was because it just felt like I was in the right place at the right time when I stumbled upon the opportunity to go abroad. And although the caliber of this trip is intimidating and a bit nerve-racking, I think that it is time that I push past my comfortable boundaries to officially open my eyes to the rest of the world. The more I learn about South Africa the more I come to realize that this girl isn't going to have the security of an "Ada bubble" hide in while overseas. -But that's life, and I need to accept the truth for what it is. And so be it.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
SIT: South Africa
Well, it's been about a week since I last posted, but I've been really busy! It's like school got out and life decided to throw a few extra things on my to-do list and time has just flown by. But I absolutely couldn't wait any longer to blog again! Let's start with the basics:
who: Me, duh -and according to a facebook group, approx. 30 other college students
what: study abroad through SIT (Student International Training)
when: leaving May 31, getting back July 17 (actual program is 6/4-7/16, 6 weeks)
where: in and around Durban, South Africa
why: I am a sports management major, and am really just looking for experience in the field. I am really drawn towards sport because of its ability to connect people from all different backgrounds, and what better experience than one that takes place in the presence of the world's largest event? (The World Cup!!)
I suppose the best way for me to relay information without writing a novel is sharing the website. So here is the first link --> SIT: South Africa. This directs you to the main page where you can navigate the many different tabs to explore the program. I have to be up in a couple hours so I'm gonna cut this short. Goodnight!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
where i was then...and where i am now...
Yup, that's me. This pic was taken at the beginning of the semester of my sophomore year on a football Saturday that consisted of losing my voice, easy livin', and bliss. I didn't really know what to expect for that year, and plans for the 2010 Summer were the last things on my mind. Fall term faded, and winter term brought nothing but a whirlwind of opportunities. I applied to a summer camp, but wasn't offered a position. I applied to several internships, and they didn't work out. I contemplated devoting a majority of my summer to a leadership training in Ann Arbor, and more important plans were revealed. So, being my usual self who manages to stay awake into the wee hours of the morning, I was dinking around on my computer when I came across the perfect plans for my summer.
And so here we are, the bare beginnings of Summer, 2010, and I have a plane ticket that is valid for a May 31, 2010 departure. Destination: South Africa. All my life I have only known one kind of football . But now, a different kind of football consumes my mind - fútbol. Please join me as I share the moments leading up to departure for South Africa and my experience while I am there. I am very excited to have this opportunity, and I cannot wait to post again telling of what exactly I will be doing!
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