Malawi – Bound!
Posted by Rachelle on August 4th, 2009
My name is Rachelle Tessier and I am currently a 3rd year Human Rights student at Carleton University. I have been chosen as the Resource Mobilization Officer in Blantyre, Malawi, working with the organization Children’s Development Promotion.
Over the past few years, I have been an active participant in such organizations as Canada World Youth and Oxfam Canada, where I have been afforded the opportunity to explore not only the core areas of youth participation but also human rights. Through Carleton University, my human rights major has allowed me to absorb useful information on the topics of children’s and women’s rights which has pushed my passion into a desire to create change.
My interest in working with Children’s Development Promotion in Malawi goes beyond scratching the surface. Having the opportunity to advocate for change, enhance participation and awareness, and mobilize resources in order to facilitate the achievement of human rights and the empowerment of women and youth is the challenge and adventure I have been looking for!
After reviewing all of the internships I felt as though this organization’s vision matched my own and I am beyond thrilled to be able to pursue my passion for social justice. Children’s Development Promotion’s goal is to ‘achieve a society in which human rights abuses, especially children’s rights and gender based violence is significantly reduced where young people can participate and respond positively.’ My hope is that I can follow this mandate and help to mobilize different resources in Blantyre, in order to inform and educate on the issues of HIV/AIDS and human rights.
As I leave with no expectations, except for those I have of myself, my goal is to inform, educate, and outreach to as many women and children much as I can, in the little time I have. Wish me luck, and I will update you all when I get to my new home away from home!
I’m so proud of you Rachelle, what you’re doing is truly inspiring. I know you are going to do wonderful things and reach out to many people. You’re someone who will make a difference in this world, I just know it. I would wish you luck but you don’t need it, you’re blessed with many talents already. I’ll miss you while you’re gone!
Sincerely
,Jasmin
I am sooooo very proud of my daughter Rachelle. This is just one more adventure in a life that I’m sure will be full of them
Rachelle, this is a huge leap in reaching your goals, great job on landing this opportunity! For a girl from Kanata who hadn’t done much world travelling, you have sure got your feet wet between China and now Africa! I’m sure with your experience here you will have no trouble lining up a job after school. I’m so proud of you Rach. I think my points should be built up by December for a free Euro trip. Drinks are on me in Paris! Good luck on the challenges ahead. Your a great girl with a great head on her shoulders, but don’t forget something vitally important before you head out. Make sure you patch a large maple leaf on your pack!
All the best!
Cheers!
Good luck Rachelle!!! It was great meeting you today, and now I’ve found your blog
Take care of yourself over there, and call your mother often!!!
Lydia
Dearest Rachie,
Your ambitious and sincere nature is an example for all. You inspire me to be a better person. Your warmth heats up the world.
Good Luck,
Riaz
Rachelle,
Tante Suzanne wrote you a message on your E-mail
Rachelle,
I hope your time in Malawi continues to be both personally and professionally enriching. Based on my experiences working with you, I have every faith that you are meeting and exceeding the expectations of your role with Children’s Development Promotion. We certainly miss you here at Oxfam Canada. You’ll always have a home here with us.
Sincerely,
Sarah Lyons
Executive Assistant
Oxfam Canada