Isubilo

Isubilo means hope in Bemba - and it is also appropriately part of the name of the orphan center. Hope is also what is being created within the kids that participate in the orphan program here in Mansa. By having adults to love them, teach them needed skills, promote their education, give them basic resources, they are being given hope.

There are two paid teachers that receive a very small stipend (Prosper & Delia) and several other volunteer teachers. These humble and selfless people are making a mighty impact on the lives of the 95 orphans. It has been an honor to get to know them. They have helped us so much when working with the kids and also to tell us the histories of many of the children. They have been our guides and translators.

On Friday the children put on a traditional song and dance show for us. Kids from age 4 to 18 danced for us in the traditional Zambian way - which was kind of like extreme Zumba. They are gifted with amazing rhythm and resonating melodic voices. (They sing ALL the time - it is beautiful). They even got each of the team up to dance (this video is now under lock and key). Then they gave each of us a name in Bemba. We were all touched.

On Saturday we did some work in the morning (translates into painting and more shopping for shoes for Amy & Lisa). In the afternoon we had some time on the shores of Lake Bangwelu at Samfya (2 hour drive each way) with the elders from the church that is affiliated with the orphan center. We enjoyed games (tug of war and volleyball) with the Zambians and some of us enjoyed the water. We also got the chance to do paddleboarding in dug out canoes. I defintely need some lessons!

This afternoon we are taking a walk out of town to see where some of the orphans live and attend school. Stay tuned for more of our continued adventures.....