Volunteer Stories - Maia
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Creating an Alternative Learning Environment
Before arriving in Yupukari one of my concerns was that I would take more away from this experience than I would be able to give. However after meeting the local youth I quickly realized the potential they possessed and how effective an alternative learning environment could be. Initiating a technology-based English literacy program has allowed interested local people to explore modern technology while improving their English reading and writing skills. Although this program has taken off quickly, I truly believe that what we have fostered in Yupukari extends far beyond English literacy. With the help of five librarians, Suzanne, Kate, Jenn and I tried to create an environment in the Treehouse which encouraged creativity, curiosity and growth. Recognizing that a top-down form of education was not stimulating their thirst for knowledge, we have encouraged Yupukari learners to research topics which interest them as to promote meaningful learning.
Living with Development
As a volunteer one wants to be able to help others improve their quality of life and so working in developing countries is often appealing. However, the issue of development is something I struggled with throughout my time in Guyana. A delicate balance exists between growth and destruction and I have often wondered what effects modernization will have on the Makushi people. Their culture has been severely injured by colonial interests, and while their language is still spoken, many of the customs have been lost. The Rupununi Learners Foundation has introduced Yupukari to the Internet, a tool with tremendous potential for good. I am optimistic that the technology provided by Caiman House will help the Makushi culture develop in a positive direction. However, initiating an English literacy program evoked mixed feelings from me because I am worried that not enough effort is being placed on preserving the Makushi language. I accept that English is necessary in Guyana and that the level taught in the local schools is not acceptable yet I struggled when encouraging local children to speak English instead of Makushi. We tried to foster Makushi literacy by creating bilingual books for the Yupukari Public Library. However, because Makushi is primarily a spoken language, at this point I believe there isn't a child in the village who can actually read these books! Anyone who is interested in initiating a volunteer project in Yupukari focused on both English and Makushi literacy would be welcomed by Caiman House with open arms!
The People of Yupukari
Without a doubt the people of Yupukari made my summer wonderful. Working with local youth on a daily basis allowed me to establish relationships which I will cherish forever. Whether it was 'liming' in the Treehouse with Lorrie and Franzea, bathing at the landing with twenty kids hanging off me, or running in the savanna with little boys jumping out of bushes to scare me, the youth of Yupukari are kind, funny and frank.
Working with the Rupununi Learners Foundation
I appreciate that we were given the freedom to be creative with our program. Alice encouraged us to test out any ideas but to be critical of their effects such that the program could continue to improve. We were supported in all of our endeavours and constantly reminded that the possibilities in Yupukari are endless, and as such we should never be content to stop creating. I would recommend volunteering with the Rupununi Learners Foundation to anyone who likes the autonomy of running a program and who also embraces reflective discussion and analysis. The Rupununi Learners Foundation has created a wonderful establishment where interested volunteers can work towards seeing their goals realized in a sustainable manner.