Prelude

At the start of December 2007, the Big Adventure becomes a bit more of a reality, and a bit less of an adventure into the unknown. Skillshare International has organized a pre-placement training in Birmingham. Four intensive days packed with information, on everything that Development Workers might be facing during their placement. Many subjects are touched upon, from big issues like capacity building, fundraising and social change to more practical issues like opening a bank account in the new country.
It was inspiring to be finally meeting others that are facing the same big step, thus creating our own small network to exchange experiences and expectations.
Good also to be finally getting an answer to the most trivial question in my preparation: whether or not to take my duvet. Skillshare’s opinion is that yes, I should be taking the duvet, if that helps me to quickly feel at ease in my new environment. Which puts an end to all the hesitation, I will be taking the duvet, even though according to local custom, I should be sleeping under a shuka (Masai blanket). In any case, I will be well prepared for the cold nights in July!