Today is my last day on the African continent until new year’s eve. I am a few hours away from embarking on a journey to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I will be working with AIESEC Rio in collaboration with NGOs in the area to help children, teenagers and young adults with issues of citizenship, human rights and leadership. The ultimate goal is to empower everyone we come in contact with, so that they can feel the burning desire to positively impact their communities.
We need passionate young people in all communities to change their nations from the inside out. The ultimate goal of this exciting journey to Brazil is simply to change one person’s perception about their life. If we can change one person’s perception of themselves, so that they have greater confidence or a greater desire to do good in their community, this endeavor will be a huge success. I believe it is important to never underestimate the impact that one person can have on a community. Thus, if we can positively affect one person, we may be indirectly involved a ripple effect of positive change in Rio de Janeiro, possibly Brazil, possibly South America, possibly the world.
Imagine a young Mother Theresa, Nelson Mandela or Martin Luther King Jnr sitting there on a warm (read: boiling hot) afternoon in Rio, void of confidence, skewed self-image, and apathetic about the world around them. Imagine if they never had anyone to believe in them, or open their eyes to the atrocities of this world. Imagine if they were never encouraged to follow their passions in the face of adversity.
I trust that God has put this opportunity in my path for a reason. I am so thankful to Him and I deeply want to glorify Him during my time in Rio.
Many lessons will be learnt, friendships will be gained, challenges will be faced, and fun will be had… Lots and lots of fun.
Let the adventure commence!
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