I am currently enrolled to take part in a GoAbroad scheme in the country of St Lucia for the 2 week mental health focus programme. I will be assisting and shadowing outreach community groups in their daily quests of providing a broadened positive outlook for the younger people in their community.
When I heard about this go abroad volunteering opportunity, my first thoughts were : what are my children going to make of this ? As a mature student and with children, it’s not that easy for me to pick up and go anywhere my heart desires without a second thought about the support system (if any) that I can rope in to support me along the way . This is why often times it is a juggle act to pursue my ambitions, or they stay on the back burner ‘until my children are older’ . I started making arrangements in my mind of childcare and support systems ; and if in fact this dream could become a reality…. Then I took a stock moment and realised I too can inspire someone as a mature student and venturing onto such a adventure. In fact my children’s lives and outlook will become better from the direct influence this experience will have upon my life. My children’s children will be able to sit and hear of my stories, my neighbours , my friends , colleagues, my new acquaintances and so forth will benefit ; and that’s what this opportunity is about. T o explore the mindset of the wider world and come back to share those insights and expand the minds of those who will hear me, and hopefully dispel / challenge limiting beliefs or subconscious biases that live awake in some of our minds. The UK is unfortunately experiencing more racially charged attacks and vandalism, anyway that I can share experiences to inspire alternative thoughts, I am willing to.
It is always a good conservation move to not bring plastic bags when travelling , particularly to a country with plenty ocean – to preserve wildlife on dry land and in the waters.
I travel with less baggage , in hope that this will reduce fuel consumption, somehow reduce my own carbon footprint. Might be my own comfort aiding but who knows ay, dont bring more than what you need and economically support local community too.
Supporting the local community can be purchasing food , crafts, water from small business owners. St Lucia is a country that relies on 65% of its income from tourism. I am always looking forward to a local fresh foods market, probably not the best for the local sewage waste after consumption but ah well a bit of homeostasis never goes wrong. After the negative impact of Hurricane Dean in 2007, St Lucia ; agriculture is also the second largest industry in St Lucia. I am looking forward to my time here and also giving an insight to British born people and our University and daily lives.
