Why Mozambique?

I experienced the trip of a lifetime. From delving into the Mozambican culture, to seeing some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, my experience in Africa has changed me into a more determined individual.

The people of Mozambique work harder than anyone I know. As Americans we truly live in the land of opportunity, and my eyes have been opened to a place where that is not the case. This really inspires me to work harder in school, my future career, and encourages me to give back to the world around me.

Thank you Africa for completely alerting my perspectives on life. Thank you for introducing me to some of the best people I’ll ever meet and bringing me more joy than I’ve ever had. And most of all, thank you for offering me far more than I ever had to offer you. I have learned more about myself and the world than I ever could have in a classroom. Until next time!

Ande com Deus!

Ihla de Moçambique

One of our weekend excursions was to Ihla de Moçambique, “Island of Mozambique”. The Portuguese colonized Mozambique, and this is where they held their capital. It was so beautiful and rustic, with so much history! We took a boat out to an island, and relaxed on the beach!The road to the island was really interesting. It was a two way road, with only one lane! 

Children’s Day

 

Did you know that in Mozambique there’s a national holiday for kids?

On National Children’s day, June 1st, we went to the local orphanage. It was so great to hang out with the kids, and see what some amazing people have done for the local children of Nampula! They put on a fashion show, and did some traditional dances. While playing soccer I felt a hand grab my hand. I looked down and it was the little boy in my pictures. He is deaf and mute, and I would love to come up with a way to help him get the care he needs. We had the best time playing toss with a water balloon & playing basketball!

The Hike

This morning we had the choice of either going to church or to hike a mountain in local Nampula. I chose the hike which might have been a detrimental decision for my health, but the view was definitely worth it. It was a 7 mile hike which went nothing but straight up. If it wasn’t for everyone holding me up the whole time I think that I would have died.

Today has been the most humbling day of the trip so far. There is a man that lives halfway up the mountain, and farms all around the mountain where he can. Despite this situation, he remains happy. I couldn’t help but think that he must be in incredible shape. On the way home, there were people washing their clothes in the river, and children standing outside their homes waving. It is so fun to see how excited that they are!

Next we went into the market, where some of my research will take place. The amount of people was overwhelming, but almost every kid that was in the market followed us around and all the way home. I wish I knew Portuguese more because everyone tried to make conversation, but I don’t even know Spanish!

Also, feel blessed for the food that you have because after the hike I was craving a turkey sandwich, tacos, pizza, and possibly everything else. When we got back to the hotel, they must have heard my thoughts because they made pizza, salad, and sausage rolls which are basically my favorite foods! I have never seen a more beautiful plate of food!

Ciao!

Dia Um

Translation: “Day One”

After flying through Chicago, London and South Africa, we finally made it to Mozambique. 48 hours of travel. 

It is completely different than I expected! The people here are so nice, and so is my group. After I slept through dinner and breakfast, we went to the farm to tour and have lunch. The business side of things is really interesting, and I look forward to learning more about that!! 

Also, our room didn’t have AC so they switched us to a nicer room and the man carried our 50+ pound bags on his head! It was crazy and I felt so bad. The people here are so family and community oriented and I think that is something that should be more emphasized in America. 

One Week

Hey y’all! My name is Annika Pawlowski & I am an Accounting/Finance major and International Development/German minor at the University of Arkansas. I am from Mansfield, Texas, and in less than one week I will be touching ground in Nampula, Mozambique!

I am blessed to be able to attend this service learning trip in Nampula with Dr. Amy Farmer and Dr. Lanier Nalley. In Nampula, we will be working with the New Horizons farm and analyzing the economic impact that this company has had on food security, health, and standard of living across the region. We will be learning first hand the struggles of creating a sustainable business in this region, as well as offering ideas on improving the business.

My group and I have been working tirelessly on a survey analyzing such things. We will be going into the market’s of Mozambique to see how the lives of New Horizon’s workers have improved since having a steady income. I am eager to see the results as well as finding ways to improve this business and the people of Mozambique!

If you are interested in this program, I encourage you to look at it here!

Also, a special thanks is extended to Jim & Pat McClain for offering the Jim & Pat McClain International Scholarship of $5,000. Without this, my dreams of traveling to Africa and participating in this study abroad trip would not be possible. In addition, I want to thank my friends and family for encouraging me to take risks and chase after my dreams.

Keep checking my blog to stay updated on the events that happen in Africa!