Graduation on the Banana Farm

A month or so ago I wrote a blog entry about the work I had been doing at one of the banana farms here in Belize. I taught a series of six sex ed classes to the older primary school students at the school located here. I thoroughly enjoyed these sessions but worried that this work wasn't sustainable and didn't really fit into the project plan. Basically I liked what I was doing but wasn't sure it was really the work I should be focusing on. It was rewarding though because the principal, teacher, and students all seemed to appreciate me coming.

Last week I was reminded that we never really know the impact we are making on the people we work with even when it seems we're not doing much. I was extremely honored to be asked by the principal at this school to speak at their standard 6 graduation (similar to US 8th grade). He said the students had voted and chose me to be their guest speaker. Another volunteer told our PC Country Director that I would be a graduation speaker and she said she'd like to come see the ceremony and hear me speak.

I received a ride into the farm with the PC country director that morning and we arrived on Belizean time (a little late) but the ceremony was just getting started. There were 12 students graduating and they all sat on stage in their caps and gowns. The ceremony included speeches from several of the students and the group sang a song as well. At one point, all of the students presented gifts to their families in appreciation of the support of their education. It was very moving and everyone was tearing up.

I was asked to speak for about ten minutes on the theme for the graduation, "Let us be the agent of change with the power of education." I read Dr. Seuss' book "Oh the Places You'll Go" and talked about how their education will take them far. I was concerned that the students may not be able to understand me well since English isn't their first language. Our director said she watched them as I spoke and many were nodding and following along. Afterwards several teachers and students said they enjoyed the speech so I think it was a success. The students presented me with a beautiful necklace and earrings set with green stones. I was so surprised but touched at their kindness.

This day was very special for the students and their families and I was thrilled to be a part. Many of the parents don't speak English and probably have received very little education themselves so this is a very important day to watch their children's success. The principal also announced that all of the graduating class would be continuing their education with a majority going to high school and a few going to the technical school. When I had last talked to the students, only about half thought they would be able to go to high school so this was great news! I am so honored to be included in their day and appreciate the opportunity I had to congratulate them and encourage their future successes.