Brian's World of Opportunity

Harrison Sakala and I near Kabwe, Zambia

My passion for international development came about, oddly enough, in a high school environmental studies class. This class branched out, covering issues of population, water availability, and food production. Looking back I would say this class expanded my view of the world and made me begin to question why I, as a student in a Canadian school system, had not been aware of the world beyond my borders (besides what we learn in WWII history books, and see on TV).

Coming to the University of New Brunswick I had no prior knowledge of EWB, and it wasn’t until partway into my first year that I attended my first EWB event. Very quickly I found myself drawn into the organization, mainly through friends, but then more seriously due to the High School Outreach program. This, I felt, was my opportunity to share my continued learning with students, sitting at those same public school desks and who, like me, probably had never put much thought into the world beyond our borders.

It was in the summer of 2008 that I spent four months on an EWB placement, working with one of our partners in Kabwe, Zambia. Living with Harrison Sakala and his family, I was able to experience the day-to-day challenges faced by small-scale farmers. The learning I gained in those four-months I value more than anything I could have learned in any lecture hall or textbook. Lack of access to credit, inputs, effective agricultural assistance, and markets are all hurdles facing Harrison, yet even in the face of this he sees agriculture as the best means to provide a secure future for his family.

This is why I am asking you to support EWB’s work this holiday season. I believe that EWB, in conjunction with our African partners, is a powerful vehicle for creating positive change for farmers. EWB is seeking to increase its impact – by doubling its volunteer capacity and flexibility to innovate. I have set an ambitious goal of raising $1000 during the upcoming holiday season. For those of you who may have been considering buying me a gift, it is my hope that you will instead, consider supporting EWB. Whether you contribute $5 or $50 I know that your donation will be used effectively, and EWB will continue to make great things happen.

I thank you for considering to support my passion and commitment to EWB, and helping to increase the opportunities for rural Africans to thrive.

Brian