Reflective Journal: 1 Month 2 Weeks Training in Community Development in Goroka
Week 1: Orientation and Initial Impressions
My journey began with an orientation that introduced me to the program’s objectives and the needs of the local community in Goroka. I was eager but slightly overwhelmed as I met fellow participants and trainers, each bringing diverse backgrounds and experiences. The beauty of the landscape was breathtaking, with the lush greenery surrounding us, but it was the warmth of the community that struck me most. I felt the weight of the responsibility that lay ahead, aware that the skills I would acquire during these weeks must be used wisely to foster sustainable development.
Week 2: Understanding Community Needs
As we delved deeper into the training, we conducted a series of community assessments. Engaging with local residents provided me with invaluable insights into their lived experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Our discussions ranged from economic disparities to educational barriers. I realized that development is not just about support; it’s about listening and amplifying the voices of the community. Over the week, I developed a deeper understanding of cultural contexts and the importance of respecting local traditions in the development process.
Week 3: Skills Development Workshops
The skills development workshops were eye-opening. We learned about project management, sustainable agriculture practices, and conflict resolution. The hands-on approach was particularly effective; I participated in a community garden initiative where we applied sustainable practices. This experience taught me the significance of practical application and community involvement in ensuring the longevity of development projects. I also learned the importance of collaboration, as both local knowledge and external expertise are essential for fostering growth and resilience.
Week 4: Implementation and Challenges
During this week, we initiated small community projects based on our assessments. It was gratifying to see the community's enthusiasm, yet I faced challenges that brought me back to the reality of development work. Limited resources and varying degrees of community involvement tested my problem-solving skills. I learned that patience and adaptability are crucial; not everything will follow a linear path. Reflecting on these challenges, I began to see them as opportunities for innovative problem-solving, reinforcing my belief in the community's potential.
Week 5: Reflection and Impact Assessment
As the training neared its conclusion, we focused on assessing the impact of our projects. Gathering feedback from community members was illuminating; their perspectives provided a broader context to our efforts. This final week emphasized the importance of reflection—not only on what we accomplished but also on what could have been improved. It felt humbling to recognize both our successes and our shortcomings.
I also had the opportunity to present our findings alongside my peers, which helped sharpen my communication skills, crucial for any development worker. This experience solidified my understanding of the cyclical nature of community development: planning, acting, assessing, and adapting.
Conclusion
After six weeks of intensive training in Goroka, I leave with a renewed sense of purpose and a solid foundation in community development practices. The blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application has transformed my perspective on development work. I deeply appreciate the resilience and resourcefulness of the Gorokan community and am inspired to contribute to their journey toward sustainable development.
Most importantly, I have learned that true community development hinges on collaboration, respect, and a heartfelt commitment to listening and learning from those we seek to support. As I reflect on this experience, I am motivated to continue this work, equipped with empathy and a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in fostering meaningful change.
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