September 5th


Canadian Embassy
I met the high commissioner who represents Canada in Cameroon. It was kind of exciting; I got to sign in a registry that has existed since 1991. There are very few signatures! It could be because not many Canadians have visited Cameroon, or because not many people bothered coming to sign the book. In the case of political conflict, civil unrest or other dangerous circumstances, this office is responsible for getting me back home.

Comfort
I am starting to become more comfortable in the city. I don’t care as much that everyone stares at me wherever I go. These are not the people that I will form relationships with anyways. Bargaining with street vendors is not as much of pain anymore.

Contribution
Throughout the training, I have had highs and lows in relation to how I feel about my potential contribution during my placement. Sometimes I feel that corruption in the government is the real issue, and that my work will only make a small ripple on the ocean of problems that plague Cameroon. At other times, I feel like I have the potential to really improve the education system in my village.

Electricity
Electrical outlets are different here than in North America. I have had to buy converters and adapters, and it has been very complicated. For example, some electronics need a certain voltage range. Also, some adapters only work in certain outlets. Because of these complications, I have not been able to recharge the batteries for my camera yet. This is why I haven’t sent too many pictures!

Team
The VSO volunteers have started to bond more and more. We hang out, have dinner, share some laughs. It will be tough to say goodbye to everyone when I leave alone for my isolated village up north.

Motivation
The word motivation here also means financial compensation for work! It is a funny interpretation of the word that says a lot about the power of money.

In general, I am doing fine, and am happier that I was when we first got here. I am starting to get grounded, but that will change once we leave on Friday for Maroua.