Week 4!

We are over halfway through initiative… how crazy is that? Time is flying by in Berbice, and we wish it would slow down because teaching is only getting better and better! Week four was a much tougher week than expected, as we taught depression, suicide and self-harm lessons in most of our classes. These crucial topics are usually not part of the curriculum in Guyana, which is why QHO works so well as a needs-based peer to peer education organization. Although it’s difficult to talk about, we are thankful that we can start conversations among the students, and help to decrease the stigma surrounding depression and suicide.

On Friday, we took part in an event that was held by the Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport. This department works with youth all throughout Guyana to facilitate workshops and programs outside of the classroom that address similar topics to those that QHO teaches. We approached six different schools to ask them to select 20 students to take part in this event. The morning started with speeches from members of the community, followed by workshops led by QHO, the police department, and members of the Ministry. We discussed topics such as substance abuse, addiction, depression, mental health and suicide. After lunch, we walked with the participating students to Port Mourant Market, where we painted positive messages about abstaining from drugs and alcohol, as well as messages to decrease the stigma surrounding mental illnesses and suicide. The students really enjoyed painting, as did we!

After a tough week of teaching, we had a well-deserved restful Saturday. We went to the market to stock up on produce, and then spent the rest of the day reading, journaling, playing cards, and just hanging around. On Sunday, we went with our friends to the Letter Kenny Mandir. Although few people in Guyana speak Hindi, and we were unable to understand what was being said, it was a beautiful service. Afterwards, our friend Eric invited us to his home to try seven curry, a traditional dish in Guyana. Unlike normal curries, this one is eaten out of a water lily leaf, usually with your hands! (We may or may not have resorted to plastic spoons though!).

From the students in the classroom to our friends we have met at the Letter Kenny Youth Space, this community has welcomed us to Guyana with open arms. We cannot explain how grateful and blessed we all feel everyday.

Until next time,

The Berbice Fam