Rick B
28 Mar 2007, 09:48 AM
I often get asked about why I like Africa and hear people say they would love to go etc. In fact thinking about it, recently I have been asked more questions on Africa than on Arsenal Tickets!!!
There are a few people on this forum who have visited various countries on this vast continent and can give completely differing views. One view I have always heard though, is anyone who has been and travelled around a bit in Africa fell in love with the place. The people, the scenery, the culture and the children’s innocence. It takes you back and makes you want to go again and again.
I and Judy (Red Agave) have at different times both travelled to Southern Africa and funnily enough it was the fact that both of us had been to a very remote place in Zimbabwe called Sinamatella, which got us really talking one day in the Tavern. Africa does that to you, and anyone that has spent a few days with me can attest how my love of the place comes out when it comes up as a subject.
At present the media perception of Africa is not favourable. It never really has been and unfortunately (as is proven by various comments on this board) many people have a perception that just isn't true. That will not change over night, but if I can just change one person's views by this thread - then it's worth it.
There are various things happening this year involving both members of this board and Arsenal fans. Firstly in June this year I am taking a group of 8 people including myself for three weeks across Zimbabwe, and into Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. Those going from here are Judy, Billy (billyho96) and Dave (leepyswetr) and I.
If you are interested in the Itinerary we are doing http://zimbabwe.pbwiki.com/ that is what we will be seeing.
Secondly if you want to find out more about Non Governmental Agencies and Charity work in Africa there are two events which people are involved in who are Arsenal fans and members of Arsenal America.
http://www.eliasfund.org/ is a charity that was set up by the band Dispatch. They raise money for projects in Zimbabwe and its Executive Director is coming on the above trip for a week of it with us. They have organised a festival called:
EliasFest: Voice of the Voiceless
May 5th 2:30 - 9:30
Nara Park - Acton, MA
This will feature several bands and events that will raise money for projects such as building a community centre, looking at irrigation projects and getting involved in projects helping children with HIV/Aids. if you have nothing to do and are nearby that weekend - go along.
Thirdly Dispatch are playing 3 gigs at Madison Sq Gardens in July. There will also be an event in Central Park. I am going to be flying over for this so hopefully will be sinking a few pints with some of the New York contingent on here.
Lastly (so far) I, Eric and others will be going back to Zim in September/October to see how the community centre project is progressing and organise other projects from the proceeds of the funds. If anyone does want to have 6 weeks on a project in Africa and has the time - feel free to PM me for more information.
I am sure that Billy, Dave and Judy will be posting their experiences of Africa when they get back.
There are a few people on this forum who have visited various countries on this vast continent and can give completely differing views. One view I have always heard though, is anyone who has been and travelled around a bit in Africa fell in love with the place. The people, the scenery, the culture and the children’s innocence. It takes you back and makes you want to go again and again.
I and Judy (Red Agave) have at different times both travelled to Southern Africa and funnily enough it was the fact that both of us had been to a very remote place in Zimbabwe called Sinamatella, which got us really talking one day in the Tavern. Africa does that to you, and anyone that has spent a few days with me can attest how my love of the place comes out when it comes up as a subject.
At present the media perception of Africa is not favourable. It never really has been and unfortunately (as is proven by various comments on this board) many people have a perception that just isn't true. That will not change over night, but if I can just change one person's views by this thread - then it's worth it.
There are various things happening this year involving both members of this board and Arsenal fans. Firstly in June this year I am taking a group of 8 people including myself for three weeks across Zimbabwe, and into Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. Those going from here are Judy, Billy (billyho96) and Dave (leepyswetr) and I.
If you are interested in the Itinerary we are doing http://zimbabwe.pbwiki.com/ that is what we will be seeing.
Secondly if you want to find out more about Non Governmental Agencies and Charity work in Africa there are two events which people are involved in who are Arsenal fans and members of Arsenal America.
http://www.eliasfund.org/ is a charity that was set up by the band Dispatch. They raise money for projects in Zimbabwe and its Executive Director is coming on the above trip for a week of it with us. They have organised a festival called:
EliasFest: Voice of the Voiceless
May 5th 2:30 - 9:30
Nara Park - Acton, MA
This will feature several bands and events that will raise money for projects such as building a community centre, looking at irrigation projects and getting involved in projects helping children with HIV/Aids. if you have nothing to do and are nearby that weekend - go along.
Thirdly Dispatch are playing 3 gigs at Madison Sq Gardens in July. There will also be an event in Central Park. I am going to be flying over for this so hopefully will be sinking a few pints with some of the New York contingent on here.
Lastly (so far) I, Eric and others will be going back to Zim in September/October to see how the community centre project is progressing and organise other projects from the proceeds of the funds. If anyone does want to have 6 weeks on a project in Africa and has the time - feel free to PM me for more information.
I am sure that Billy, Dave and Judy will be posting their experiences of Africa when they get back.