June 21 - June 27

I am becoming increasingly interested in the idea of solar panel installations for the underprivileged and have thus been trying hard to gauge the interest and opinions of Zimbabweans. The majority of people I have spoken to agree that solar power is a good investment for this country. However, many have pointed out that installing solar panels is not an educational or constantly growing project – it is a one-time installment with very little room for innate progress.

A huge problem that I have come across with many NGOs is the excess of giving with a lack of teaching, and I want to make sure that anything ZOF does as an organization does not resemble this type of seemingly ineffective work. I went to a conference with Charles Ray, the US Ambassador, and when asked about NGO work, this was the problem to which he also immediately pointed. As such, a lot more thought and exploration needs to be given and done to this idea to avoid falling into this dangerous category, but I am optimistic about the potential.

On another note, I have had an interesting week of cultural interactions, including lengthy discussions on gay rights, Catholicism, and politics. I have found everyone to be refreshingly open to discussion on such topics, thereby enabling us to understand each other’s perspectives.

Although they say, when in Zimbabwe, you’ll notice the brain drain, this upcoming week I am meeting with some very interesting people including solar energy experts, financial consultants, and NGO experts!

Paying uno after school

On the soccer field

Drawing cards

Drawing cards