Ghana and Ghanaians, in Their Own Words

It’s been said that there are three stories that are told about the African continent: animals, war and conflict, poverty. A glance through any news publication and the vast majority of stories about this continent likely fall into one of those three categories. But there are many stories to be told about people and places within the 54 countries that make up this continent.

But to insist on only these negative stories is to flatten my experience and to overlook the many other stories that formed me. The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story. – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, The Danger of the Single Story

In an effort to combat the single story that is told about Ghana, I asked some of my co-workers what they thought people should know about Ghana. This is what they had to say.

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5 Things I’m Looking Forward to in Ghana

Big news for the path that I’m on: it’s taking me to Ghana for the next year! I’m very excited for this opportunity to live and work abroad, particularly because it means learning and living a new culture and a new perspective.

I’ve been reading about and researching this West African nation and I’ve narrowed down a few things that have really piqued my interest and that I’m particularly looking forward to learning and experiencing more thoroughly.

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Kumari: the Living Goddesses of Nepal

One of the main tourist attractions in Kathmandu is Durbar Square. There are several temples, both Buddhist and Hindu, concentrated in a small area. There are lots of people milling around, selling things and generally living life. However, there is one building that is particularly sacred. It’s the home of Kathmandu’s kumari, a living goddess.

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Kruu Ning is My Host Country Hero

Way back in Pre-Service Training, two years ago, I was interviewed about what I wanted from my site placement. The only thing that I was adamant about was that I wanted to work with a co-teacher who wanted me there. It didn’t matter to me if I was in a rural place far from other people. I wanted to work with someone who was willing to work with me.

With Kruu Ning, that is exactly what I got. She filled out the application for a Peace Corps volunteer. She’s been there for me when I struggled and shared my successes. She has been so amazing. Which is why she’s my Host County Hero. Watch the video to learn more.

UNICEF Takes Aim at Violence Against Children

Thai commercials really know how to get at your emotions. They use this kind of gauzy filter with tinkling pianos and strings underlying the action. They really know how to appeal to your emotions. UNICEF in Thailand has jumped on board with a short video about violence against children. Even if you don’t understand the voiceover, I’m sure it’ll speak to your heart.