Hola!
We have now been in Bolivia for just short of 2 marvellous weeks! Having come together from all over the UK and meeting with Bolivian partners, we are off to a great start!
Adjusting to some areas of understanding and of the culture have been a small challenge, but we are excited and absolutely in love with this country and all it has to offer. Moving in with host families throughout the city of Cochabamba has allowed each of us to experience the culture and family traditions in a specific way. Much of our free time at home is spent enjoying food prepared by and with our host families and that means lots of beef, chicken, rice and fresh fruit and vegetables.
Our time at project has been so fruitful already. We have plans in place and objectives which we have set to ensure the next 8 weeks are built up to the best place and the results can be the beginning of change for the community. It's exciting!
Our main focusses for change are the Mikuniy Quinutrion events and raising awareness of product accessibility in the local area. Quinutrion is produced in Cochabamba by Bolivian-grown/sourced ingredients - quinoa, honey and other grain/nuts. This is an incredible product with great capacity for creating change. The reason is not only the health-conscious ingredients or ability to change the nutritional content of a packed-lunch forever; ultimately it allows project Oeser and all that it encompasses to function. Therefore, many children have access to a nursery and school, activities, tuition, leadership direction and life skills including learning English. Please do feel free to Like the Facebook page Mikuniy- Quinutrion and keep up to date with our posts! This is a product we hope many of you will try in the near future. I know I certainy will have some in my suitcase!
The other area, which is a new focus for Oeser, is the youth participation program. This is going to be innovative, fun, creative and engaging and we are looking to create positive individual mindsets in each young person we have a privilege to work with. This in turn will encourage positive citizenship. It can only be an adventure on the way!
Each day can be a challenge in a new way. Please continue to communicate with us, pray if you will and encourage the best in this process. We are enjoying serving this community. Hasta luego...!