What new skills and/or knowledge have you gained from your summer experience? Have you met anyone who has been instrumental in shaping/helping you conduct your project? Briefly, how has this person impacted you? What have you learned about leadership from this individual, and how might it influence your actions, work, and self in the future?

My experience at UZIMA was largely shaped by one of the local volunteers who also happens to be a resident of Ezimbuzini, Nokuthula. Nokuthula happened to be the first person I met when I first joined the organization, and she has truly helped me find my bearing in the new place. Nokuthula is often my guide, translator and companion at work. She is very familiar with the environment, which has in turn made it much easier for the locals to welcome me and the work I am doing. 

Nokuthula has taught me to be selfless, and has reminded me that one can always give back to their community through time and commitment even if they cannot afford to do so financially. She is a young leader in her community who has garnered so much respect and adoration, which I find so remarkable. Nokuthula eagerly participated in almost every program that was being facilitated by UZIMA as both a leader and a learner, respectively. 

She juggles being a teen mom, and a community volunteer which I imagine is not easy but she handles it all with grace. I admire her commitment to those she loves, which includes both her family and neighbors. I truly hope I, too can one day be a leader filled with humility and strength to overcome adversity, the same way Nokuthula does each and ever day in Ezimbuzini.