Passionately living to create the changes I want to see in my little corner of the universe. Development Professional, life-long learner and lover of all animals.
Nearly one year ago our reality shifted dramatically. Individuals like myself, who through privilege, luck, and an incredible network of support, weathered the storm with a lot of comforts, cannot deny that sometimes just existing in the midst of a crisis can be its own struggle. For so many others this was a year of immense and immeasurable loss, losses we may not fully comprehend for several years. Today, International Women's Day, a full twelve months into this crisis, seems like a very important day to mark the struggles that women and especially intersectional women have born during these unprecedented times. From job loss to burnout to the burden of care and invisible work, so often this past year it has been women, most especially in racialized and impoverished communities, who have been hardest hit by the turbulence of Covid-19. More than ever it is essential this March to mark these losses and burdens and strive, as we rebuild, to consider the gendered lived reality of ou
So I have had a long interest and passion for development issues but I had no idea that I did until I started my first year of university in the international development and global studies program at the University of Ottawa. From the time I was a young girl the concept that equality was only a luxury confused me and so I developed a desire to educate others that this ridiculous state of existence was in fact a reality. I didn't always understand the finer points of these issues but they seriously concerned me. Luckily into my adulthood my passion remained unshaken. Don't get me wrong as any international development worker or student will tell you, your lying if you say you never felt hopeless about development projects, disgusted with the whole field at times, and even ashamed of past failures. I had these moments but never once did I think that discussion, awareness and education weren't necessary. I began his blog to encourage sharing of ideas and, yes I acknowledge
What a strange nearly 12 months it has been since my last update. (I do hope to post more frequently). Upon reflection from my last post my 3 major points are worth reflecting on: 1. We are really bad at judging ourselves honestly, so you should assume you are doing better than you think. This proved very true for many of us during the Covid year. I managed to sell my home, a little condo in Ottawa and secured enough funds to maintain myself as I explore fundraising consultancy. My current contract was renewed, so I can continue to contribute to a cause I am passionate about, while developing incredible skills. I am also very thankful and aware that these realities are only possible as a result of my many privileges. This year has been incredibly difficult for many communities, from small local business to increasing global poverty and those of us who have been able to stabilize ourselves in these difficult times do owe support to those who may be struggling. 2. You never have to do
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