Sep 25, 2013
Dean Tsatouhas and Andrew Kocicka in Kisii, Kenya.
Vancouver, BC - Over the past few months, five Langara students took a break from their studies to volunteer abroad for humanitarian projects around the globe. They were all recipients of the C.A.R.E. Langara Volunteer Abroad Travel Award – a program dedicated to developing student leadership, civic engagement, and community-based learning.
Fourth-year Business Administration students Dean Tsatouhas and Andrew Kocicka spent a month developing soccer programming in Kisii, Kenya. Having played soccer since childhood, they were excited to work with Cross Continental to share their passion with local soccer clubs and schools. Prior to leaving on their trip, they fundraised $2,000 and three bags full of soccer equipment.
"Volunteering in Kenya was an amazing experience. Seeing the smiles on all the children's faces while playing soccer with them was truly inspiring," said Dean. "Aside from our volunteer schedule, we had an amazing cultural experience living with a Kenyan family and partaking in daily local activities. I made friends in Kenya that I will stay in touch with for a long time."
On the other side of the world, second-year Business Administration student Anna Fernandez taught English in Arequipa, Peru. She spent six weeks assisting after-school programs and delivering workshops on health and well-being with a local organization called HOOP.
"Knowing that I made a positive impact within their community, big or small, makes me want to relive the experience all over again," said Anna.
The diverse experiences made possible through the C.A.R.E. award also included Recreation Leadership student Vania Tse's trip to teach English at a Tibetan monastery in India, and Photo-Imaging student Shawna Wajzer's current experience volunteering at an orphanage in Nepal (Shawna will be returning this November).
The students will share their experiences in an information session on Thursday, September 26 from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm in room C511. A representative from C.A.R.E. will also be on hand to talk about this year's award. If you'd like to learn more about the program, or to get information on how to apply, contact Langara VOLT Volunteer Program.
Anna Fernandez in Arequipa, Peru.
About the C.A.R.E. Award:The C.A.R.E Langara Global Travel Award Volunteer Program is an opportunity that provides airline travel for students who wish to engage in international service learning and humanitarian assistance projects around the world. The program is dedicated to internationalization through the development of student leadership skills, civic engagement, and community-based learning.
Learn more:
Sylvia Tan
Communications Officer
Langara College
604.323.5961 | stan@langara.bc.ca