The women explained nobody had asked them what they wanted or needed. A European company thousands of miles away had decided for them without any consultation. When I first came home and heard of CAFOD, it was CAFOD’s emphasis on working in partnership which really attracted me and inspired me. This way the people in developing countries are respected. More importantly they have a voice. They are listened to.
It's such a privilege. I remember one assembly I did about Rabiul in Bangladesh - there was a child in the class from a village similar to Rabiul’s who related his own story. This 8-year-old boy was so proud to tell his class that he knew children like Rabiul. It was very moving seeing the child’s pride and his classmate’s reactions as he ‘told’ them his story. Now I always ask if there are any links with the countries that CAFOD is focusing on.
Because of the asylum seeker and refugee situation in Middlesbrough I have been privileged to meet many children from so many different developing countries. They are inspirational children, contributing so much to their schools and communities. I felt so privileged and humbled to meet these children, living life to the full here, but with such pride in their own memories and stories of their culture in their country of birth.
My heroes are people who embrace life fully, no matter what adversity is thrown their way. The kind of people who deal with brokenness daily but still reach out to make a better world for others. These to me are the courageous ones, always reaching out to touch and help others selflessly ignoring their own pain and vulnerability.
Do it – it’s worthwhile. You meet other lovely people who share their experiences of volunteering. The training days are always friendly. You come away feeling affirmed and thanked, and to be honest, there is always something or someone to smile and have fun with. It’s a happy experience.
