Blaire here writing from Ghana. I’ve been a Peace Corps Volunteer in a small farming community in the Northeast region since January of 2018. I will be returning to the states in March when my 2-year term is completed. I’ve learned a lot these 2 years, often hard to put into words. Most of my work here has focused on youth leadership development, sanitation and hygiene education, and project initiatives that focus on increased household nutrition and food security.
Learning how to adapt to a new culture has been a beautifully challenging task, and as cliché as it sounds, I am leaving with a deeper meaning and sense of community, family, and friendship than I could’ve ever imagined.
The experience, of course, was not without challenges. For one, grappling with the history of international development—its controversies and nuances— have been eye opening, especially seeing the on the ground effects of international aid (in a country where international aid is deeply entrenched). There were days when I doubted my very presence here and what work I should be doing, but I am leaving with a full heart and a new perspective on the world.
Looking forward to returning home and making a trek to Hamilton, a visit is long overdue! All the best.
