I want to share my fundraising experience with all of you. This week, I joined the women on a fundraising venture. I have been moved by this experience. I have a new-found respect for my Nigerian sisters and am truly honoured to be part of this motivated and passionate group!
It began in TST. I was still attached to my own Western notion of time, and I arrived at the assigned location on the scheduled time. I waited, and waited, and waited.... I voiced my opinion about time keeping, then, "let go" and went along for the ride!
It began in TST. I was still attached to my own Western notion of time, and I arrived at the assigned location on the scheduled time. I waited, and waited, and waited.... I voiced my opinion about time keeping, then, "let go" and went along for the ride!
The next 4 hours in the Mirador mansion at TST, saw the group of 5 women and one very patient young child, move gracefuly around (the only way Nigerian women know how to move), offering invitations, and respectfuly encouraging our Nigerian husbands and brothers to sponsor us!
I thoroughly enjoyed being witness to the dialogue and banter that took place, most of it in Igbo (a great way for me to learn). The gentle coaxing and humourous non-pushy way my Nigerian sisters encouraged our men and a few ladies, was a delight for me to see. Men and women were generous in response and offered constructive feedback, and hearty praise for our vision and efforts.
The same again on the Tuesday in Kam Tin. The members of the community seemed delighted as this fresh and, might i say, beuatiful, group of ladies appeared in the typically male domain. A grubby, mosquito infested place of work, where we saw men in opressive humidity, toiling and sweating about their hard work, well into the night. What a surprise we saw on the men's faces when we offered wine as a gift! Printed invitations were handed to everyone. Men were encouraged to bring their wives and families.
At TST
Some kind gentlemen went out of their way to help us. Here we are in a brother's office, being given some fine pepper soup made by Sister Rita.
Meeting with the men.
The ladies speaking about our cause in Kam Tin
Sham Shui Po. A new family business open their doors and pockets. Thank you Chris Igboanua and Sandy!
Very important for our children to see the hard work their Uncles are doing, well into the night time. Despite the hard work, this young man is welcome to try standing on the truck like his Uncles are.
