I’m learning that living abroad means experiencing more “hellos” and “goodbyes” than usual! This past week was filled with them- I had to say goodbye to a dear friend, one of Mosaic’s full-time volunteers, Jana, who spent every day with me in the training centre helping with Made by Mosaic. My favorite thing about Jana was that she’s one of the few friends I’ve had that isn’t shy to tell me when I’m about to make a mistake- she prevented many! She is remarkably attentive to detail and could always tell me where I put my keys, among other things. During the time we spent together she became my more patient, tidier, and hilariously funny better half. Now that she’s gone, I frequently find myself thinking, “What would Jana do?” After her 6 months of volunteering in South Africa, Jana returns home to Germany to family, friends, and her boyfriend of over 5 years- I expect wedding bells soon! He is one lucky man!
The big hello this week was to Made by Mosaic’s new intern, Alan. He’ll be working for us based in the US for about ten hours a week. Alan is a recent graduate of Rutgers University, with a degree in Political Science and Psychology. He studied abroad in South Africa at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, so he already has a passion and understanding for the country and the goals we have for Made by Mosaic. His first task is to publicize West Chester University’s Aid to South Africa event on campus on April 15th- if you attend the event (which you should!), you’ll get to meet him! Welcome to the team, Alan!
Our first shipment of products for 2012 is arriving in the US! If you are waiting on a Christmas order, don’t worry, you should have it very shortly. For those of you who are interested in purchasing more products, you’ll be able to do so at the Made by Mosaic table at the upcoming Aid to South Africa event mentioned above.
