Primary School kids and two Jam-packed days

Hey Blog, two day update coming your way...

We started Friday, July 18th bright and early to attempt a 9am departure (likely unsuccessful, but my lack of a watch or phone has inhibited my ability to confirm or deny our punctuality). Music blared through bass-less speakers is a sharp secondary alarm, and before arrival we are at the ready for a jam-packed day. The greetings of Orkeeswa students meet us as we disembark our faithful steed, along with the smell of aromatic morning tea. The sun peeks lazily from cloudy haze, but thankfully the crisp morning air perseveres into lunchtime despite the biting Tanzanian rays: cooler temperatures have been our saving grace. 

Thanks to Ms. Sales, everyone scattered to assigned activities. I personally headed to Chess, a specialized class at Orkeeswa. Chess has been a great way to connect with other students, especially when a language barrier can limit relationships, or intellectual expression. Virtually every person I have encountered at least knows the basics of the game: Chess is a great community builder and ice breaker. 
After an hour and a half flew by I headed to an empty classroom to practice a traditional Maasai dance routine along with three other Groton students (Sage, Semira, and Kayla). Our newly fashioned dance troupe made final adjustments under the guidance of our teacher Agnes. After an hour of practice we donned performance garb and headed to assembly at the basketball courts. We danced to four songs in front of the entire community, which could have been more nerve wracking, but I found comfort in the supportive nature of the audience. 
After our performance we grabbed a quick lunch, and then packed back into the bus for a short trip to a local primary school. Instead of the red sweaters characteristic of Orkeeswa students, we were met by droves of Maroon clad children competing in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and rugby. We split up and assisted teachers, helping as many students as we could. I played 4 v. 4 basketball with Jayden, and two hours disappeared. We were taught how to count in Swahili and Maasai, and we finished our visit to the school with footraces and more dancing. 
After returning to the lodge we took a brief excursion to a local general store and stocked up on soda and sweet treats. We followed up our gluttonous shopping spree with a short nap, and a steak dinner. Post-meal we spent a long time around the campfire discussing our experiences here in Tanzania and the US. A deep sleep left us prepared for an even busier day today.

Today (Saturday, July 19), we returned to Orkeeswa to help volunteers orchestrate the “Grow the Girls” program. This weekly event involves the congregation of around 250 primary school girls who participate in sports, music, and games, designed to promote their autonomy, and instill self-confidence. I personally helped coach soccer games for a couple hours, played chess with 4 different people, and attended the presentation of potential business/organization ideas in an entrepreneurship “Projects” class. This emphasis on financial literacy, and creative problem solving to improve local communities embodies the ideals which Orkeeswa strives to imbue in their students. We wrapped up a busy Saturday with a lighthearted pick-up basketball game with our two Spanish friends (who are volunteering), and Orkeeswa players. The evening consisted of a musical bus ride, deep naps, and another filling dinner (plus conversation). We wrapped up with a fireside chat, and now I find myself struggling to write this blog. But here it is…

Thanks for reading!