Erica's learning something new everyday

I have officially been in South Africa for a little over a month now. I can’t believe how quickly the time is passing! It seems like just yesterday I was packing my suitcase, trying to envision what Cape Town would be like. Now, here I am a month into this experience, and I couldn’t be happier that I decided to study abroad here. South Africa is a complex country. It has a painful history, and many of its citizens are still dealing with the repercussions of the apartheid. I’ve also been confronted with many harsh realities at my internship, which can be difficult to process at times. With that being said, I’ve seen an incredible amount of resilience in the people I’ve met here, and I’ve noticed such a strong sense of community during my time working in Khayelitsha thus far. Additionally, I feel as though I’m growing and challenging myself in little ways each day- from cooking for myself, to figuring out the public transportation system, and simply being in an atmosphere where I’m learning something new everyday.

Working at Prevention In Action has been such a unique experience, and I already feel very close with Mams. Katherine and I are in the process of planning two events: a debate between people involved in gangs and other members of the community about safety and security, and a larger dialogue about preventing gender based violence and creating a safer atmosphere for everyone in Kuyasa. The two students who interned with Mams last year conducted a workshop where community members discussed relevant issues and possible solutions, so Katherine and I are aiming to find ways to implement their suggestions and hopefully create sustainable, positive change in the community.

I’m looking forward to participating in Human Rights Weekend this coming weekend, and I’m hoping to make connections with other students from around the continent who are also passionate about social justice issues. I’ve heard many people say that Human Rights Weekend was one of their favorite parts out of the entire trip, so I’m excited to see what this weekend will entail!