It has been busy lately... so much so that the blog has been languishing a bit.  This is largely because I've got two part-time consultancies on the go alongside a new full time position as a psychosocial officer with Africa and Middle East Refugee Assistance... supporting asylum seekers and refugees to access medical, psychological, social and educational services in Cairo, and advocating for their rights. Hearing their stories of the persecution they faced in their homelands, and their ongoing struggles in Egypt makes me that much more convinced that practitioners and policymakers need to work at addressing the root causes of conflict which will minimize their displacement. I am really enjoying this work, although some days it can be pretty heavy.

On a lighter note, I'm excited to have my brother join me in Cairo soon, as he begins a new job. I am also increasingly anticipating studies at Bradford!  I recently received the official acceptance letter from admissions, have been assigned a Rotary Specialist, and had contact from Rotarians on the UK side so it's feeling more and more real.

And how are things going for you?  Have you already participated in the latest polio inoculation campaign or is your trip to sub-Saharan Africa still to come?  I would love to hear more about that upon your return!

I haven't confirmed my schedule for the summer yet, but at present I am slotted to return to Canada mid-August, and school doesn't start in the UK until the end of September.  I would be happy to speak at a couple Rotary clubs in the district while home, and can give you more details once I have travel dates confirmed for home and the UK.

best,
Rachel