From online to in-person

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… the short answer is nothing. We are so grateful to be able to work with and form relationships with students over Zoom. Our goal has always been to offer support to the Philippi students and community members in any and all ways we can. However, sometimes, virtual connections can be limiting. We often encounter wifi issues that make it hard to connect with students in real-time.

Because of this, we discussed the possibility of a trip to the Philippi Village with Scott Clarke, Founder of Amandla, and the Philippi students and teachers. Based on our conversations, I crafted a service trip proposal that would allow students from my school to learn about South African history directly from students and leaders within the Philippi Village, while also forming long-lasting relationships with members of the Philippi community. We wanted to raise awareness at our school about the Philippi community and encourage our peers to develop a similar passion for working with the students of the Philippi Village in order to support their academic goals. 

However, turning this vision into a reality did not come without obstacles. Previously, students at my school had not been allowed to submit service trip proposals, as this process was reserved for teachers and administration only. I advocated tirelessly on behalf of the Awethu team so that we could propose this meaningful trip and give students the same opportunity I had. In March of 2023, I officially submitted my 2024 Philippi trip proposal to my school’s Department of Global Engagement. To view the proposal, click below.