For however long I can remember, I've held some fascination with Africa. For me, there is an odd sort of intrigue about the place - some mix of mystique, romance, and risk. I come from a pretty simplistic place. Square fields and corn in row. I wouldn't trade it, but my questions and worldview and love for travel sometimes lead me to press my face against the glass.
By the end of college, I just wanted to fling the window open. I wanted a season quieter and slower than the one before it, far less rehearsed and more spontaneous. I wanted to detach myself for a short while, sort through my insecurities, read and write. I wanted a culture so foreign to anything I've known, that I might be forced to carry an uncomfortably open mind and see what happens.
I tried to visit Africa twice before; both opportunities fell through. This time around, with a bit of luck, some creative networking, and a lot more free time, I begin my tour.
For me, quintessential Africa is found at its heart - the danger and mystique of Congo, the tragedy and grace of Rwanda, the savannah in Kenya. Now I find myself here, sorting my way through Central Africa. I want to learn from this culture, to understand the challenges it faces and the undercurrents of African tradition and suffering. I want to clear away my Americanized misconceptions of the "African struggle" - to understand the deeper context. And I hope to find a base for future work and study.
During my final year of college, I interviewed for an award in front of a panel of people. Though I didn't receive the scholarship, I did gain a job. One of my interviewers followed up and bluntly offered to send me to Africa. That became my means for getting here. He is well connected in Rwanda, having given money for aid projects and also established business partnerships in the country. He cannot spend adequate time in Rwanda to follow up with his various involvements, so he sent me here to find my way around and provide some sort of oversight.
A couple of years ago, I also met a man from the U.K. who is deeply connected in the African safari business - throughout Kenya, Zambia and South Africa. Upon agreeing to the job in Rwanda, I called him to ask if he might pull a few strings and find an additional work placement for me. He came through and arranged for me to work on animal conservation projects in Kenya.
So I have two jobs to pay for related travel and sustain while I am here. Before, in between and after, I'll be on my own. I'll do my best here to share stories as I experience them.
I really have to thank Drayton Nabers, Bishop John Rucyahana, Guy Whitehead, Keith and Greg Hellyer. I cannot express my gratitude for the opportunities and support. Thank you also for the flexibility to turn me over to my own questions, for releasing me to find my own way and trusting me to follow through nonetheless.
