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May 07, 200405/07/04: From Chris
I don't think any of us where prepared for what has transpired over the last month and the impact it has had on us all. It has been a month of laughter, thought and tears as these young people discovered humanity. We started with inquisitive minds exploring each others culture, cuisine, sports and misconceptions. With a level of trust and interest we explored what truly happened 10 years ago when close to a million people where killed by the genocide in this country. As an outsider, I listened to the testimonials being broadcasts from youth in Rwanda to their peers in the US. I listened as these youth shared how they lost their family members and loved ones and how they are finding the strength to reconcile and rebuild Rwanda. From there, we went on to look at how the indigenous Ba'Twa people continue to struggle for their place in Rwandese society. We saw first hand, the traditional dances and the amazing pottery that they create. The journey of Rwanda continued with a look at how HIV/AIDS has crippled Africa and a discussion on how the young people of the world can be a powerful force in making great change. From HIV/AIDS we started to examining environmental issues, in particular the habitat of the Mountain Gorillas. We explored the Mountain Gorillas through live broadcasts from the Dian Fossey Karisoke Research Center as well as the first ever live broadcast from the natural habitat of the Mountain Gorilla. I think I can speak for all participants that when you see these awesome giant animals look into your eyes you are changed for ever. So here we are a month later and we have started our final conferences that bring these youth together to look at how they can collaborate to change the world. Yesterday participants began to brainstorm on how they can write government officials to help with housing for the Bat'wa, how they can raise money for the orphans of the genocide, keep spreading the word on HIV/AIDS preservation and the need for more support to protect the last of the Mountain Gorillas. I have never seen a group of young people more prepared and ready to change the world and I feel honored and blessed to have been a part of such a journey. I would like to take a moment and thank all of the sponsors, donors and participants who have created Rwanda Alive. Global Nomads Group exists solely thanks to the financial support of individuals, corporations and foundations who believe in our mission of "fostering dialogue and understanding of the worlds youth." As we leave Rwanda alive, I would like to ask for your help with continuing to harness the minds, knowledge and strength of our global youth for constructive cross-cultural exchange. If you know of schools and teachers that would like to participate in our programs send them our way. If you have resources and time to donate to the mission of the organization contact us soon, and if you have financial resources to contribute so that more young people can have this type of opportunity. please click here and support GNG. Once again, I would like to thank all of the sponsors and participants of |
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Over a month ago, with the support of individuals, corporations, schools and foundations, GNG launched Rwanda Alive. As you have witnessed, we brought youth in the United States face-to-face with their peers in Rwanda.