Volunteering in a ‘developing’ country is meant to be hard, isn’t it? …Living in basic conditions, overwhelmed by needy people, cultural isolation and chaotic schedules, jumping from one disaster to the next. Five months down the track and this hasn’t defined my experience.
Firstly, Samoa could hardly be classed as ‘developing’. There are very few people who struggle for food and have nowhere to sleep. Fruit and vegetables grow almost anywhere and more than 80% of the land is customary-owned (family inheritance). The informal social security networks practiced for decades are very effective. Family networks only rarely allow one of their own to be outcast. I’ve witnessed much more obvious signs of poverty in Sydney.
Secondly, a simple life means that, if anything, life is less chaotic. Walking to work each morning for 25 minutes is much less stressful than negotiating traffic. No TV and a simple radio (with Radio National 24/7) frees up hours each evening and provides quality news and discussion each morning. Relationally-focussed people care more about you than what you can do. A strong Australian volunteer community based within 15 minutes of each other is a vibrant link to a familiar social, sporting and cultural network. While we may lack the luxuries of hot showers, fresh milk and a quiet neighbourhood, these are only small inconveniences. Daily life is simple, but good.
There are, in fact, other luxuries that can be appreciated more fully. Cultural activities like Independence Day celebrations, fire knife twirling and canoe racing haven’t yet lost their novel appeal. The outdoor/beach lifestyle enjoyed by many Australians is still very much a feature of life in Samoa, however the heat limits this mostly to the mornings and evenings. The serenity of weekend trips to beachfront fales… only 40 minutes drive away.
I recently acted as tour guide for my parents and uncle and aunty who were looking for a relaxing Pacific Island retreat. Armed with a hire car, some small gifts and a bit of local knowledge we explored the two main islands of Upolu and Savaii, as well as the road-less and dog-less (!) island of Manono. Memorable moments often involved the generous welcome of local villagers and the excited faces of kids being presented with a tennis ball. One particular moment stood out… relaxing on a balcony over the water, watching the sunset while local kids played rugby in the shallow water beneath. Priceless.
So life in Samoa is pretty good – better than I thought for a volunteer. Some aspects of work can be frustrating... I recently introduced a competition to motivate the casual staff to be more productive while in the office. With beers on the line, it’s amazing how efficient they can be! I hope that my task-oriented approach won’t rid them entirely of their contented and care-free attitude. Maybe there’s something we can both learn.
Firstly, Samoa could hardly be classed as ‘developing’. There are very few people who struggle for food and have nowhere to sleep. Fruit and vegetables grow almost anywhere and more than 80% of the land is customary-owned (family inheritance). The informal social security networks practiced for decades are very effective. Family networks only rarely allow one of their own to be outcast. I’ve witnessed much more obvious signs of poverty in Sydney.
Secondly, a simple life means that, if anything, life is less chaotic. Walking to work each morning for 25 minutes is much less stressful than negotiating traffic. No TV and a simple radio (with Radio National 24/7) frees up hours each evening and provides quality news and discussion each morning. Relationally-focussed people care more about you than what you can do. A strong Australian volunteer community based within 15 minutes of each other is a vibrant link to a familiar social, sporting and cultural network. While we may lack the luxuries of hot showers, fresh milk and a quiet neighbourhood, these are only small inconveniences. Daily life is simple, but good.
There are, in fact, other luxuries that can be appreciated more fully. Cultural activities like Independence Day celebrations, fire knife twirling and canoe racing haven’t yet lost their novel appeal. The outdoor/beach lifestyle enjoyed by many Australians is still very much a feature of life in Samoa, however the heat limits this mostly to the mornings and evenings. The serenity of weekend trips to beachfront fales… only 40 minutes drive away.
I recently acted as tour guide for my parents and uncle and aunty who were looking for a relaxing Pacific Island retreat. Armed with a hire car, some small gifts and a bit of local knowledge we explored the two main islands of Upolu and Savaii, as well as the road-less and dog-less (!) island of Manono. Memorable moments often involved the generous welcome of local villagers and the excited faces of kids being presented with a tennis ball. One particular moment stood out… relaxing on a balcony over the water, watching the sunset while local kids played rugby in the shallow water beneath. Priceless.
So life in Samoa is pretty good – better than I thought for a volunteer. Some aspects of work can be frustrating... I recently introduced a competition to motivate the casual staff to be more productive while in the office. With beers on the line, it’s amazing how efficient they can be! I hope that my task-oriented approach won’t rid them entirely of their contented and care-free attitude. Maybe there’s something we can both learn.
