Welcome Home!

Welcome to my new home! I will be spending the next month and a half in a quiet, little Inca town by the name of Ollantaytambo. I named the last blog ¨Among the Incas¨, but that title is much more appropriate for this entry!

The 1.5 hour drive to the new home was stunning. Around us were beautiful mountains, crisp blue skies, and the occasional llama of course! The Peruvian landscape is stunning. I have met up with Ashley and Jasmine, the director and assistant director of Mosqoy, and together we made the trip out to Ollantaytambo. The three of us have been arranging and planning the next little while in Peru and the work that needs to be completed.

Ollantaytambo is a beautiful Inca town, with a population of around 2000 people, situated admist Peruvian mountains. The official website of the town definies it simply: ¨There's only town in the Earth of the Incas, where the time took a rest.¨ The Inca water system still runs through the narrow, cobblestone streets, while the Inca ruins remind us of the greatness of the people that walked these very same streets as us, and lived in the very same homes as us. This is my new home. I will be visiting many of the students in the surrounding villages.

I was and still am slightly nervous about spending an extended period of time in such a small place (it could not be a bigger difference from hustle and bustle of living in Hong Kong), but I am looking forward to this challenge. I think it will be a really unique chance to focus on my work, on the Peruvian culture, and on building strong relationships.

We came to Ollantaytambo to a perfect welcome as we made it right in time for a four day festival and celebration in honour of the town Saint- Sr. de Choquekillka. This means that Ollantaytambo is on pause, and a grand fiesta takes over. Almost the whole town is split into 17 groups (dances) and every day we enjoy beautiful costumes, scary masks, delicious Peruvian food, and dances in the square and around the town. Today, we even watched bull fighting..matadors and all! It is absolutely unbelievable ...I still cannot believe I am in Peru. It is really great as four Mosqoy and Education Generation are dancing in the dances and we have had a great time watching them!

In between the attempts at Spanish conversations, festival watching, planning, and Peruvian culture...I snapped some photos. Enjoy:

Our student Ebhert dancing with his group in the square. He is in the middle with the big-nosed mask. This was before he had eggs, water, and a slew of other things thrown at him as part of the dance.

The many masks of the festival.

The residents tirelessly twirl and dance for four days straight. Last night, or well morning, the festival went until 7 AM. As the town is small, we could hear the music and fireworks the whole night. It was the first time I slept with earplugs!

The procession from the Church to the center.

I am contemplating bringing back home a really cool Peruvian mask.
The devils of the festival dance on the roofs.

Bullfighting was part of the festival and we watched in horror, interest, and curiousity as the matadores teased the bulls.

Fighting the sniffles with delicious coca tea while watching the festival.

My new room!

Among the Incas

It is already my third week in Peru! How unbelievable! Life in Peru has been great so far. I did not even think that I would be travelling so soon yet again, let alone spending my summer living in South America, but that is life…!

My third week in Cusco has been fantastic- aside from the sore throat and the sniffles, things are great. I have been drinking lots of coca tea, though, which is supposed to help! I also have a bag of coca leaves to chew, but they don’t taste that great…and so I am not too keen on doing it.

As I have not begun my official Education Generation and Mosqoy duties, my week has mostly consisted of learning more Spanish and enjoying the sights of Cusco. Learning a language can get frustrating at times and not being able to completely be myself in Spanish (as one of my housemates put it) is rather challenging. But at the same time, it is SO thrilling to have a conversation in Spanish.

The week consisted of sightseeing, partaking in the seriousness that is winning a volleyball tournament, pisco sour tasting (a popular Peruvian drink that mixes eggs and alcohol), some salsa watching, more mini-bus hardships, and meeting new friends.
I have also made a visit to Casa Mosqoy and met four other students. Casa Mosqoy is a house where the students can live in Cusco free of charge while they study. They have recently moved to a bigger house at the beginning of May and I met up with Rolando who introduced me the other students. Currently, there are about 5 other students living in the house as most of them are either doing their practicum or are back at home in the Sacred Valley as school is not in session right now. We hung out for a little bit- speaking in Spanish and English. They explained to me what they were currently doing, the joys and the problems that they have encountered while moving, and we also had laughs and about romantic relationships!

Ashley and Jasmine from Mosqoy are coming tomorrow, and I need to get healthier, so I am off to sleep. Enjoy the photos below of some great touristy times in Peru.

On Sunday, we had decided to venture off to a nearby town called Pisac. It is popular for its large Sunday market and also the Inca Ruins on these mountains. We had decided to opt out of the easy way of taking the bus or taxi to the ruins on the very top, and decided to instead hike the mountain you see in the photo. It was exhausting because of the altitude, but very worth it!

The colors of Peru

The unbelievable Inca remains

Along the hike we enjoyed stunning Peruvian scenery.

Traditional Peruvian wear amidst Inca ruins.

On my way home one day, I stumbled upon some sort of political gathering. “Willy-We are with you today, tomorrow, and forever.”

The beautiful streets of Cusco

Mosqoy 1- Rolando

Mosqoy 1 is the first generation of students from the Sacred Valley of Peru which Mosqoy and Education Generation have funded. Through the generosity and kindness of many donors, this group of students has finished their studies and are now completing their programs by doing their mandatory practicums.

This week I got a chance to visit one of Mosqoy 1 students and see him in his practicum action! Rolando is 20 years old and is from Ollantaytambo- a town nearby Cusco. He spent the last four months studying English at the University of Victoria as well, so we would switch between Spanish and English- both wanting to practice the other's language. Having studied tourism, Ronaldo is doing his practicum at a travel agency in the heart of Cusco- Plaza de Armas.

We first met on Saturday and spent the afternoon talking about Mosqoy, his experiences in Canada, and his plans for the future. He invited me for lunch with his friends and I had a typical local meal...and also tried to understand what his friends were talking about in Spanish!

After completing his practicum, Rolando hopes to continue work in tourism. He also practices English every day and currently we are planning practice english practice sessions. Also, we are setting up times when I will visit Casa Mosqoy and hold English conversational classes with him and the other Mosqoy students!

I stopped by the travel agency today as well and took a few photos! Enjoy:

Rolando with his coworker

Myself, Rolando, and his coworker

Los Turistas

My first week in Cusco is coming to a close and it's certainly been an unforgettable experience. Most of my days are spent studying Spanish as during the day I have lessons, and at night I work on my homework. I actually quite like this routine. I take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the everyday life in Peru.

My days start off with breakfast with my Peruvian family. It's incredible how much we take language for granted..I've quickly learned how frustrating it can be to not be able to express myself and precisely describe what I mean. But within this challenge lies fun as well... as at every meal my Peruvian family and I sit together and try to converse and find common grounds in foreign thoughts and languages. We come from different parts of the world, see the world through different lenses, yet manage to to laugh together every morning about some minute details. This is why travelling is so great. And why life is really very simple.

One of the highlights of my day is getting to school. Although taxis have a flat rate of around $1CAD and I could go to school by taxi every day, I instead take public transit each morning. At a cost of around $.20CAD, the public transit in Peru is something else...The main component of public transit consists of mini-buses which are basically slightly larger vans. In Peru, however, these vans fit ... simply put, incredible amounts of people. Or not even incredible amounts- uncomprehensible amounts is the better description. So here I am each morning, taller than everybody, sitting (sometimes standing bent over) with 20 other locals in a small van. It's incredible.

Cusco is a very interesting town. I try to take in everything for what it is and not pass judgement. The city is beautiful in its core center, but is also surrounded by obvious poverty, unfinished homes, and struggles. The struggle of the locals can often times be seen on their faces, but so can the passion for their friendships, children, or their love for sports and dance!

Below, enjoy some of the things that my eyes have been feasting on during my time off from school....

Plaza de Armas

Beautiful cafes in the center

There was a festival in Plaza de Armas

Traditional Peruvian wear

My teacher took me to a cemetry in Cusco. They are very different than those in Canada.

View of Cusco from above

Llamas!!!

Cristo Blanco overlooking Peru

Welcome to Cusco!

Es mi dia primero en Cusco y me encanta esta ciudad. Okay, okay...the blog isn't going to be in Spanish nor do I know enough to fully write it in Spanish, but hopefully by the end of the trip I will! (I dearly hope that sentence was grammatically correct though)

After a 24 hour epic journey to the country of Peru, I've finally arrived to Cusco yesterday (Monday, May 3rd) morning. I'm very happy that I have not experienced any altitude sickness and my host family tells me it's probably because of all the coca tea they have been giving me. I can now say that I have tried this treat as well! It's very delicious! I believe, though, that legal matters (unfortunately) prevent me from bringing it into Canada.

It has always been my dream to fluently learn Spanish, and this fellowship is a perfect match as I actually NEED to learn it in order to carry out my job better. As such, the next three weeks I will spend learning Spanish at FairPlay Peru. In total, I attend six hours of classes each day- 3 hours of grammar and 3 hours of conversational Spanish. It's been very great as I'm fully immersed into the Spanish environment. Today, I have not spoken English with a single person. That being said, it does get a little lonely as I am not fully able to express my thoughts and feelings. But, that's the only way to really learn. Following my goal of challenging myself, I am ready and excited to tackle this challenge as well.

So far, I'm really enjoying Cusco. Stepping into the city, one is immediately aware of its South American charm. Established in the midst of mountains, it's a place in which tradition still carries on. Most evident to a tourist are the woven, colorful garments typical of Peruvian culture. Toques, skirts, baby carriages- they can be seen everywhere! The city itself has a beautiful center with stunning temples, old churches, and narrow cobblestone streets filled with Peruvian art. Today after classes, I walked around those narrow streets, enjoying the history while dodging cars and the many people advertising massages to tourists!

I am situated out of the center, living with a kind family in their home. I enjoy delicious meals three times a day and get to practice Spanish with them. I have never before lived like this, so it's a very interesting experience. Overall, this trip will (and already has) present me with many new situations that will only help me grow and develop myself.

Anyways, I have to go do homework!! In the next few days I will be learning Spanish and connecting with Mosqoy volunteers that are currently in Peru. I can't wait to meet all the students I will be working with. I look forward to sharing stories regarding my volunteer experience! I'm also excited as my friend will actually be arriving to Peru soon to hike Machu Picchu! Great coincidence.

Enjoy some of the photos below!

Until next time, I'm sending love en espanol!

Jevta

currently listening: World Citizen - I Won't Be Disappointed from the BABEL Soundtrack. A great sentimental and contemplative song. Puts me in a thoughtful mood each time. It's what I ponder to at night (as ridiculously cheesy that sounds). :))))

A school near my home

Outside of my home

Outside of my home in Cusco
My room

Cusco Bus Station

Plaza de Armas in the center of Cusco

Beautiful narrow streets of Cusco

Welcome once again!

Hi everybody! My name is Jevta and I will be traveling to Peru this summer through the Education Generation Fellowship program.

First of all, I am incredibly excited for this tip – and I hope to use this blog to share my experiences, thoughts, and learning over the course of the next couple months. It will be a completely new, meaningful, and challenging ride, and I hope that through this blog you can join in on it!

I will be leaving for Peru tomorrow and staying there until mid-July. I will be working with the incredible organization called Mosqoy (www.mosqoy.org), one of Education Generation’s first partners. Mosqoy has worked hard to provide education opportunities to Peruvian youth, as well as sustain and preserve local customs and traditions.

Through the fellowship, my role be varied, but I have summarized it in the following goals:

1. Act as a communication liaison- I will understand, document, and communicate the lives and progress of Mosqoy students.
2. Student Mentor- I will take part in leadership training, community and team building exercises, organizing community events, and holding English conversational classes.
3. Promote cultural exchange- I will strive to understand and connect North American and Peruvian cultures and promote cultural exchanges.

While those are the specifics of my role, my main underlying goal is to do my part in helping to better our world! We all have the opportunity to make a change, no matter how small or large it is, and I have decided to dedicate my summer to volunteer work and making an impact on other people’s lives.

In addition, I have set a few personal goals that I hope will guide me through this experience

1. To open my eyes, feel the fear, and challenge myself- This is a new and definitely scary experience. I hope to feel and breathe Peruvian culture, engage in the communities and with people in them, and strive to always challenge myself
2. Learn Spanish Fluently- Ambitious….but doable.
3. Have fun- Life shouldn’t be too serious, and I hope to have a great time learning, meeting new friends, and enjoying the beautiful sights and sounds of Peru.

I hope you guys enjoy the blog in the coming months. I will try to update it as much as I can, but there will be at least 2-3 updates per week.

Jevta

Week 4, my final week and return to Canada

The fourth and the final week was spent finishing the student interviews and other administrative tasks, such as finalizing the fellowship details. Ashley and I have discussed and agreed on almost all aspects regarding the fellowship program, and set ourselves a deadline to complete everything so that we can start advertising the position soon. If anyone is interested in participating in a similar (but longer) adventure as Education Generation’s next fellow in Peru, check out our Education Generation website in December.

During my last few days in Peru Ashley and I decided to make a little trip and visited the coast of Peru, the Nazca lines, the sand dunes of the Huacachina oasis, checked out the wild animals and numerous birds in Paracas and Islas Ballistas. It was a well-deserved break for Ashley, and a chance for me to see other parts of the country. The places that we saw and visited were absolutely incredible!

I have since returned to Canada, and things are now busier than ever. I am currently working on translating the videos to turn them into student updates, which will be posted on Education Generation's website. We are also working on editing the footage and creating a video which will include the student interviews. Keep visiting our website regularly for the video and student updates.

I have been in touch with the students and Raul; Ivanhoe and Rolando sent me some emails sending their thanks to all the donors and supporters. Here’s what Ivanhoe wrote in his email: “hola zaya primeramemte grasias por ayudarnos a todos nosotros y a todos ellos que nos apoyan y espero que estes bien de salud…y tambien a todos los que me poyan los quiero cuidense” (“hi zaya, first of all wanted to thank you for helping us and thank everyone who has been supporting us. I hope you are in good health … would like everyone who has been supporting me to take good care of themselves”). The students are doing really well, continuing with their studies and work, and I’m hoping to continue to stay in touch with them over email and facebook.

It’s good to be back, but I definitely miss Peru and all the people, the students, the relationships that have been formed. Hopefully I will get to go back soon for a visit or just relive the experience vicariously through our next fellow!

Some pictures from the last week:

Ashley and I during our travels on the coast of Peru

Jonathan Guevarra

Ivanhoe

Dina Alvarez and I

Jonathan Medina