Backdated post from October 1st
Today is the last day of October and the start of a new week with Hope for HIV/AIDS International (HFA). In the last 5 days I’ve learnt about the background of HFA and the mission they have to combat HIV/AIDS and the stigmas attached to those living with and/or affected by HIV/AIDS.
HFA has a small office on Palm Avenue in Mushin, Lagos. There are five members of staff and all of them are friendly and have done their best to welcome me and make sure that my stay is enjoyable. Lagos presents a brilliant opportunity for volunteers, as there is a lot to do. However, if you are looking for a social volunteering experience with other volunteers this isn’t it. Lagos is a tough city but if you’re looking for something to challenge you and push your comfort boundaries then this placement will suit you. Tomorrow I go to Rhoda Youth Centre, which is outside the city. I have a hunch that this will be a quieter area and I’m told that this is a bustling youth centre. I’m looking forward to spending the week there!
The generosity of the people in Lagos is amazing and you can’t fault it. You need to be direct here but don’t worry if you’re not a direct person you’ll have to learn to be to survive. It will also help if you can cook basic things, there aren’t any social meals, although I’ve advised HFA to encourage this, so for now you’ll need to source and cook your own food. The street food seems to be safe enough though and you can get any meal for 3/4 people for 200N – about £2. However, on a night it doesn’t seem that safe to go out. There is still a fear of kidnapping here.
The other day I visited the one of the communities that HFA has a base in. It is a community built on marshland and is not dissimilar to the communities which may be shown on Oxfam adverts. This particular community had been flooded by river water during the week making navigation difficult.
The HFA is a Christian organisation and most of the work that they do is with Pastors and members of the Christian community. They have just got some funding through to deliver more training on HIV/AIDS but this training will be delivered to Muslim community leaders as well. The HFA usually have International Christian volunteers for their placements as well. However, I’m not a Christian, or religious and we are coping with our differences. I do think it may be easier to do this placement if you are a Christian but then for me it is an opportunity to learn about different models of community engagement and a different culture. Do be warned though if you are not a christian you will be asked a lot of questions and and you will be preached to.