By Ms. Cavanaugh
Growing up I had learned assumptions that Africa was similar to the US in its organization. Rather than a continent with separate, distinct countries and cultures, it was more like a country with states that were much more similar than different. Growing up in the late 80s, early 90s, I was bombarded with images of “We Are the World (For Africa)”, images of poor, dirty children in tattered clothing begging for money, houses in complete disrepair, and the idea that we must donate money, clothing and items to somehow “save” the people of Africa from their life of poverty and hunger.
As I grew older and began my career in international education, my eyes began to open more to the fact that Africa was truly a continent, not a country. The areas I once considered “states” were, in fact, beautiful countries not only with rich economies but rich in culture, language, and environments that were very different from country to country. Yet I still struggled with my own preconceived notions of most of the continent being poor and impoverished, and struggled to break free of my biases.
The country of Senegal was completely foreign to me. I had no idea of its richness and what it could offer. When I came to Christchurch and learned of the Global Ed program, Senegal was the very last place on earth I would ever think I would go. However that all changed. Years passed, and I met two students from Senegal. I quickly learned of my strong biases and after reflecting on this along with my desire to one day visit a country in Africa, I decided to take the leap and fully immerse myself in the culture and lifestyle of this foreign country. I couldn’t begin to imagine what was in store for me when I arrived.
Every bias has been broken since I arrived. I have been overwhelmed by what I’ve seen and experienced and have taken every opportunity to observe, learn, listen, and understand. The people of Senegal don’t need “saving”. In fact, it is us who could learn from them. A theme we have focused on a lot as we travel through this beautiful country is community. Everywhere I’ve gone and every person I’ve interacted with is a “sister” or “brother” of someone else. I’ve stopped questioning it because it doesn’t matter. They are all connected here. They are all one. One people, one community, one country.
A common Wolof proverb says, “Saabu du foot boppam” which means it takes a village. Everyday I’ve been here, I have seen that. I have seen time and time again how communities in villages work together to create community gardens and ensure the children receive the best education possible. I’ve seen new friends create amazing meals for Americans they’ve never met before. I’ve seen strangers search all over the village when the Toubabs (Americans) get separated from their group. This place is far from the poor, helpless images once portrayed in American pop culture and frankly exemplifies the level of community and success that other countries and cultures only hope to achieve. I leave here with the lessons of how strong relationships with others can build stronger communities. Senegal has taught me that happiness doesn’t come in what you own or where you live, happiness comes from who you’re surrounded by. Success takes a village but working together builds a stronger community.
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