It's official - Action Kivu / ABFEK has an intern, on the ground, volunteering to assist Amani in all the work, change and growth that he's creating in eastern Congo.
A big welcome to Miriam, who arrived via Rwanda (and Nepal, and a short rest in Germany) just this week, to unexpected rain, open arms, hearts and hope from Amani, his family, and all women and children in the community they work with!
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| Miriam in the DRC (in purple pants, 3rd from left) with Amani (blue hat, 2nd from right) |
In Miriam's own words:
"I'm 27 years old, from Germany. I'll stay in Bukavu from June to December 2011 to work with Action Kivu."The fight for women's equality and against gender-based violence has always been a passion of mine, and this is what brought me here. I was part of the staff of the international NGO Women Against Violence Europe for two years when I decided to explore feminist work on a grassroots level. During the research for my final exam for my master's degree in media science I came across the war journalist Kevin Sites. It was through his reports that I became aware of Action Kivu. I had already read about women's situation in Eastern DR Congo so when I learned about Action Kivu I knew I had to get in touch with them.
"Before my stay in DR Congo I spent half a year in Nepal to learn about the situation women are facing there.
"I refuse to let frustration and resignation take over in the face of the overwhelming plight of Congolese women. Instead I would like to learn from the Congolese people and try to support them, one by one and face to face. "
We're thrilled to welcome Miriam, thankful for her giving spirit and adventurous, open heart, and excited to see, through her eyes, camera, and experience, the challenges facing the people of eastern Congo and the changes being made.