Transitions

We arrived at Dakar International Airport at 4:30 AM on May 30th. This flight reminded me of past visits in Latin America when everyone claps as the plane lands safely at the airport. The cheery atmosphere motivated me to wake up and take in the day. I jotted down some first impressions and felt very comforted by the kindness that people exercised. I had my first language lesson with a perfume vendor at the airport. This is one of the most incredible experiences I've had because our conversation helped me understand the cultural and religious nuances in Wolof greetings and everyday conversations. After we picked up our bags in baggage claim, we strolled to the parking lot to encounter what I could only call "carcochas" (peruvian slang for old but functional cars). I knew that this three-hour drive to Kaolack was going to be a long one. We dozed off here and there but our driver, Justin, announced our location periodically. We passed through the Thies region, the Ndiess village, Nbour, and many more villages before reaching Kaolack.

We arrived at 10,000 Girls, an education NGO, at about 10 AM. I felt like we were in a beach town because there are mostly cement houses and sandy dirt (with the exception of your occasional mansion here and there). There are very few trees and vegetation in Kaolack. To contrast this absence, there is garbage everywhere. Kaolack has an open sewage system and I sometimes walk past small streams or puddles of dirty water. Once I have access to my photos, I will post some photos about the town.

The NGO staff members were so friendly and welcoming! I was matched with the Thiam family and followed the daughters to their home. I live with two strong and confident women and youth, ages seven to 19. My sisters and brothers listed their names in my notebook and I want to share them with you!!

Oumy Thiam (my host mother)
Ousmane Thiam
Astou Thiam
Awa Thiam
Fatou Thiam
*Oumy's husband has been in Iowa for a year, trying to help the family.

Manma Thiam (my host mother's sister)
Amath thiam
Fat Thiam
Maty Thiam
Bebi Seck
*Manma's husband has been in NYC for a year, working odd jobs to make a living and send money back to the family.

More to come about my family and my stay in their home...