Arrival and Team Introductions

Landing in Lima was a whirlwind of excitement and nervousness. I was eager to meet the team of fellow university students I'd be working with. As we gathered in the hostel's common area, I quickly realized how diverse our group was. Representing England, India, Morocco, Indonesia, Mexico, and Ireland, we were a colorful mix of cultures and backgrounds. The initial icebreakers were a bit awkward, but soon, laughter and shared stories began to fill the room.

Design Thinking Workshop

We dove into a workshop on design thinking. This session was designed to equip us with creative problem-solving skills that would be invaluable for our volunteer work. The facilitators guided us through various exercises, encouraging us to think outside the box and collaborate effectively. By the end of the day, we had brainstormed innovative ideas and felt more connected as a team.

Cultural Fair Preparation

Our excitement grew as we prepared for the cultural fair. Each of us was tasked with presenting our home country, and it was amazing to see the pride and enthusiasm everyone had for their heritage. We spent the day decorating booths with flags, photos, and artifacts.

The Cultural Fair

The cultural fair was a resounding success! The vibrant displays of England, India, Morocco, Indonesia, Mexico, and Ireland attracted curious onlookers. We each took turns presenting, sharing traditional foods, music, and stories. It was a beautiful exchange of cultures, and I felt a deep appreciation for the diversity within our group. The highlight of the day was when we all joined in a spontaneous dance, blending steps from each of our traditions into one joyful celebration.

Meeting the Local Volunteers

During the fair, we met the local volunteers from the organizations we would be working with. These introductions were crucial as they provided us with insights into the communities we would be serving. The local volunteers were warm and welcoming, eager to share their experiences and listen to our ideas. It was humbling to see their dedication and passion for making a difference.

Reflections on the Week

Reflecting on my first week in Lima, I am filled with gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead. I've already learned so much from my team and the local volunteers. The design thinking workshop has
sparked new ways of approaching challenges, and the cultural fair reminded me of the beauty of diversity. I am looking forward to the weeks to come, knowing that together, we can make a positive impact in the communities we serve.