What went well?
The progress I made; what was achieved and done
For this week, I have been staying at the office working on my report after experiencing the field in Kedougou, Saraya, and Koungheul for the past two weeks. Glad that I took a lot of photos and videos, whereas I am am able to recognise the names of the villages. Everything is on the schedule.
What could have been done differently?
Things that did not get done and/or could be changed
Probably enhance my memory a bit as I cannot recognise and call the names of every colleague both at the regional office at Tambacounda and base at Kedougou
What did I learn about myself when working with others?
Contributions, behaviours and values I exhibited
Be proactive in using the local language and do not reject offers (it is a custom to accept). Do not be shy when trying to recite phrases in French and Wolof; attempts are always welcome, just extend the olive branch
What did I learn about leadership?
Leadership attributes and insights I developed
Leadership is about how to inspire others. That was what I thought when I attempted new things. In the eyes of local people, it is itself inspiring for somebody who came afar, with little to no prior background in French or Wolof, to use the language in daily conversations.
What do I want to develop or focus on next?
What I still need to develop
Probably some courage with encountering local people I do not know and trying new food, perhaps also bargaining at the market (that is part and parcel of Senegalese life)