Blog

 

Malawi vs. Hunger: The Multiple Challenges to Guaranteeing Food Security

During the six months I lived in Malawi as an international humanitarian volunteer, food insecurity ceased to be an abstract concept discussed in classrooms and became part of my daily reality. Through field activities, weekly visits to local markets, and close engagement with refugee communities – especially in the Dzaleka camp, I witnessed how limited... READ MORE

My first impression landing in Malawi, Africa

Entering Malawi was as smooth as it possibly could have been, made easy by the immense support from HUMANA and DAPP Malawi. Traveling as a group made the journey even more meaningful, as those shared moments quickly became memories for a lifetime. With all the information provided by Richmond Vale Academy, obtaining our visas upon... READ MORE

Dare, take risks, and believe in yourself – you will be rewarded!

I had the opportunity to visit schools in the North Leeward area of St. Vincent to raise awareness among children and young people about Climate Change. We all know that Global Warming and Climate Change affect small island. Nations severely, so it is important that the also the next generation knows about this and about... READ MORE

Education – the road towards development…. how does it look in Malawi?

As we all know, education is foundational for all development – whether it is educating all people to read and write or to train carpenters, farmers and teachers.  Classrooms not only lack electricity, but many classrooms are without chairs and desks. During the cold months in Malawi, the temperature can drop drastically. Schools and classrooms... READ MORE

Into the Forest we go, to lose our minds and find our souls

So, the first month, filled with presentations, group tasks, and documentaries have given us a solid foundation — all neatly stacked like the lasagna beds Giorgia taught us about.  But out here, theory steps aside and the practical learning begins. The proof isn’t in the pudding after all… it’s in your blood, sweat and tears,... READ MORE

Behind Google Slides and Quiet Corridors

On those rare days when the timetable loosens its grip and adventure calls, we scatter like marbles. Some into sea sand and sunlight, some into stillness and others into tasks that quietly hold the Academy together. This is when the adventurers, having formed a squad, will find one another waiting at the main entrance to... READ MORE

The Garifuna in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The Garifuna people, also known as Garinagu, holds a significant place in the history and cultural heritage of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but still only surprisingly few people here are aware of their story and legacy. Their story is one of cultural fusion, and resistance against colonial oppression. Originating from a blending of African,... READ MORE

Building Resilience Through Action

Arriving recently on Union Island, I’ve started to see firsthand what it means to build climate resilience in vulnerable communities. As the newest participant from Richmond Vale Academy (RVA), I’ve joined a committed team continuing the work of those who came before us, working side by side with local families to grow food, share knowledge,... READ MORE

Students get first-hand view of impact of climate change on SVG

This article was originally published in IWN Seven international students who have completed the climate compliance programme at Richmond Vale Academy are returning home with first-hand knowledge of the impact of climate change in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They are also leaving the country with hands-on experience about what can be done, at the... READ MORE

How to create an ecological society?

Why an Alternative is essential! On June 24, 2012 in In the Galapagos archipelago, birthplace of Charles Darwin theory of evolution, Lonesome George took his final breath. This giant Pinta Island tortoise two meters long and 500 kg was the last surviving member of his family.  When the Spanish stepped on this island in the... READ MORE

Living and working in Malawi: Life Inside Dzaleka Refugee Camp

Malawi is a beautiful and welcoming country, known for its kind people and peaceful vibe. But for the over 57,000 people living in Dzaleka Refugee Camp – originally built for just 10,000 people – life is incredibly tough. The camp is overcrowded, under-resourced, and filled with people who once had stable lives but were forced... READ MORE