08/01/2024
8/1
Day 3 started off a little slower. Physically, my body was exhausted and I got off to a late start. The anti-malaria medication upsets my stomach in the morning, so I canāt eat heavy or traditional breakfast which consists of tomatoes and baked beans. And really, I was just tired. But I still pushed through at a slower pace and finished up 2 hours earlier so that I could rest up for tomorrow.
We were still really productive today in the short amount of time. I got a copy of their constitution and we explored the 4 core values of the organization, teamwork, transparency, shared responsibility and efficiency. Many were not aware those were the core values, so we explored each of those concepts and how they can enhance the organization.
We did a couple of teamwork activities, as I found it difficult to communicate and explain team builders with a translator and through a lens of anotherās culture. For example, in the U.S. or American culture, we can use different materials or we will physically touch one another for team builders. However resources are limited and cannot be wasted, and holding hands, standing in tight spaces etc are not the best activities when they canāt be well explained. I did have one of my favorite activities that went over well.
Today was the day we tackled the communication issue and I took a change with the age old favorite āTelephoneā since one of the main ways they communicate is word of mouth, as many do not have access to a phone. The phrase was āOur soccer team is #1ā and at the end of the circle, the message was inaudibleš¤£. They realized thatās probably how messages are being conveyed to those without phones by the time they receive it.
We created a 2-tier communities plan that started with creating a list of those who have phone and reception, those who have text capabilities and those who do not. Instead of assuming āsomeoneā will go to their door and relay the message, we identified who could be those liaisons to connect with those without phone access. We are also working to see how we can photo copy and distribute information more widely instead of area leaders making 10 different phone calls and relaying the message those times.
We then ended exploring conflict and how it is both inevitable and necessary for growth in organizations.
We finished early but it was still impactful in 4 hours.
Resting up and getting ready for tomorrow.
Still blessed. Still grateful af.
