Hello from UpRising India!

Hello and welcome to UpRising India’s blog. UpRising is a youth leadership programme for 19-25 year olds based in Tower Hamlets, Barking and Dagenham and Newham. As part of the programme a few lucky UpRisers have been given the opportunity to travel to India for three weeks!

We will be flying to Bangalore and then traveling to Mysore where we will take another journey to a small rural village. Our plan is to help out planting mangoes and other high value crops. This can only be done during the monsoon season so we expect to get quite wet.

There are going to be many challenges for us along the way. Not least raising the money to pay for injections, visas and equipment. The Uprisers are lucky enough to have the trip provided for them by Raleigh International who have been funded by v.

Reminiscing

So it has just been over a week since we have returned back to glorious London, and it has taken me this long to get back in the swing of things. It’s funny how such a short space of time can have a massive impact on your life.
I never thought that when i got back to London it would feel this strange, life after the three bowl system, alcohol hand gels and mess tins..it’s just not the same. The echoes of ‘good mornings’ from 17 people is very much missed.
 
For me the expedition in terms of work was more or less what I expected, but after arriving in India, the cultural difference was beyond anything I could have imagined. The misconception I carried with me were challenged and
at times I struggled to accept some of the practices but the beautiful smiles and gorgeous landscape truly took my  breath away.

The first time we met the villagers that we were going to be working alongside and living with for 12 days was quite special, they put on a spectacular welcoming ceremony that will always remain in my memory. Their beautiful smiles on their faces said it all, they were happy to have us, and we were happy to be there. Who needs a translator when you’ve got smiles and a whole lot of head shaking going on!

The fields were where all the magic happened! The bonding sessions began and it soon became a natural ritual alongside all the digging  and not only with ourselves, but strong bonds were also formed with the villagers, it didn’t stop there, it continued after work. Our home from home  magically transformed into a  play ground in the evenings. The cricket matches and volley ball games with the locals kids were hilariously fun and more importantly the kids seemed to have enjoyed it a great deal.
 
The workload demanded physical strength and tested all of  our patience but the Uprisers true to their style,  stepped up to the challenge and delivered the only way they know - Uprisring style.
 
Huskurhadi became our home and we even had our own little ‘oxford street’ as Dawn fabulously called  it, so really we weren’t missing much, not knowing the time and what date it was a virtue and slightly librating. It was a million miles away from or busy, non-stop life styles, the stressful London life was no match for the laid back Indian ways. Watching the sun rise with the sound of the elephants in the background reminded us how far we were from home.
 
We left the project base to start our trekking through the Bandipur national park, which itself was a rare opportunity and famous for its wild animals, it was pretty exciting. Unfortunately for me it wasn’t meant to be the day that I started my trekking, soon after we began I felt ridiculously ill and It gradually got worse under the scorching sun, after making the group stop about four times Sophie our doctor ordered  me to be taken out and I was taken away on jeep to our next base. I was disappointed to say the least! I would like to give a special thanks to Angel, she became my rock throughout the difficult time, she was my guardian angel! And Karen our project manager was amazing and took care of me in the absence of Sophie -the doctor who was herself an amazing and sweet person to have caring for you.
In fact everyone was incredibly encouraging and thoughtful, THANKS guys your efforts were truly appreciated.
 
However Nothing and I mean NOTHING! was getting in the way of me trekking. Luckily next day I was feeling better and I was happy to march with the team. The final day was a bit of a  struggle for some as we had few more casualties for different reasons but again we pulled through without anyone being taken out and that was an amazing  achievement.

It would be practically illegal of me not to mention the fact that we climbed the 1001 steps of the Chammundhi Hills Temple a day after our trekking, those steps were never ending I tell you!!
 
Travelling with an incredibly diverse group ,which often got a lot of attention and watching them grow and discover new things about themselves was precious. I am even more proud to call myself an UpRiser now. I would also like say thanks to Dawn and Rosie who remained to be the most calm, strong and determined people to have around you, when you are thousands of miles away from home. Our fantastic project managers who put up with us for 3 weeks. You are part of the extended family now. It’s official. Overall an amazing trip…fantastic experience…and I would recommend anyone to do it even if its for your own personal growth! Many thanks to everyone for making it what it was. Much love!
 

Peace & love.
Muna

Looking back

July 10th

Nearly a week on, and It’s still strange settling back in to the norm of things here in London. 3 weeks away from home is enough time make you appreciate what’s around you. I must admit, I didn’t know what to expect from this expedition. But one thing was for sure, I was going to make sure every minute was worth it. If packing for the trip proved to be an obstacle, how was I going to prepare myself for what was ahead of me??? So once in a blue moon, when it’s necessary; I don’t think, I just DO!!
 
Digging holes, planting trees, whatever way you look at it, one thing’s for sure, it was the most intense physical training I have encountered……and I loved it. Critically acclaimed “monotonous work”, but I beg to differ. We had a goal everyday, even if it was 1 metre deep. Challenges shouldn’t be overlooked but embraced, then achievements are sure to follow.
 
We were there to help the local community. But they returned the favour immensely. They opened my eyes to see things in a different light. Lack of wireless connection or hot running water does not make them unhappier than we are. Their way of life was just different, not deprived; because they made the best of their situation, like we would. A smile can speak many languages, but in this case the shaking head got in their first. I was always weary of when one of their heads might just drop off though. 
 
Getting to know the fellow uprisers had to be a bonus. The guys made the expedition more special. Wouldn’t trade a single one…..I think…..no….I’m sure! A new team leader everyday made it even more interesting. It definitely tested my patience and self control. But on the whole I think I passed with flying colours. A personal triumph…for sure! One thing I learnt, that will stay with me; the ability to see the best in everyone. Optimism can do wonders!!
 
Trekking was awesome. Walking with untamed animals, sleeping under the stars, constant snacking; I couldn’t ask for anything more. Actually, maybe one thing……time! 
 
Got through the expedition with no medical attention. Wahay!! No blisters, no complaints!!!
 
I musn’t forget to mention….watching the sunrise. Once was breathtaking, but twice was spectacular. I’d lose sleep over it anyday!!
 
Thank you to Karen & Pedro. Amazing PM’s. Sophie….we wouldn’t have had the birthday cake without you, not to mention; your nursing skills were ace. Rosie, cheers for being so determined, you kept me going. Dawn, because of you I still have my sanity ; )
 
And at the risk of sounding feminist, a big shout out to the girls for digging a bigger hole than the guys….it’s all to do with teamwork, lol. 
 
And the final question; would I do it again??? YES, asap!!!!!
 
The world is at my feet, and the sky’s the limit (for now)!! …Asma

Trekking in Bandipur

30 June 2009

I’m not strictly an UpRiser but rather an UpRising staff member. However, I feel very fortunate to have been accepted into their fold, if only for a few weeks. Spending time with the UpRisers 24 hours a day has given me a whole new appreciation of 14 bright, imaginative, thoughtful and inspiring new leaders and high hopes for what they can all achieve in the future. I have massively enjoyed being led, challenged and supported by them. Since leaving out community project we have been busy trekking through Bandipur National Park – something that very few people are able to do. With us we were carrying enough food for three days, tents, medical supplies, cooking equipment and of course, clean socks. We are a mixed group and the large majority had never trekked before so we were excited but nervous about challenges facing us. Unfortunately out first challenge came much sooner than we had anticipated when Muna became quite ill and was unable to carry on walking. Sadly she had to be taken on ahead in a jeep with Project Manager Karen to look after her. The rest of us battled on with our packs in the heat and eventually made it to the open land where the elephants are found. Before long we were trekking close to whole herd of elephants. There was some serious excitement at one point when it seemed as though there was going to be a stampede – but there wasn’t and we live to tell the tale. It was a hard day but we battled through and seeing so many amazing creatures close up really gave the group a drive. Fortunately we were being led by UpRiser Gerald who is famously the muscle – and a good proportion of the brains behind the operation. He kept morale high, carried bags and made sure that we stayed together as a group. By the time we arrived at our first resting stop it felt like Gerald had carried us most of the way there. Trekking continued for another two days with increasing blister pain, another casualty due to sickness and two twisted ankles (mine). We ate a lot of crackers and rice and drank a lot of brown water but we made it and everyone finished the trek supported by the person standing next to them, in front of them and of course most importantly on the hills, behind them. I had a fantastic time and couldn’t have wished for better company. I hope that many more people will be able to have this experience in the future

Walking with elephants

… Rosie Beauchamp

The adventure continues

25th June

Today it was Freda’s opportunity to take on the responsibility and role of day leader. She started of by delegating task, so Gerald and Asma were asked to prepare breakfast, Anis was asked to be tools officer, Shamu was asked to be medical officer and Sophie and AJ were asked to provide support for the team.

Breakfast was very good so Gerald and Asma carried out their responsibilities and roles for that morning very well.

We all woke up later than normal because we were enjoying the previous night so much that we went to bed late. Also because it was the last day of digging people were less stressed and more relaxed which must have been a relief for the team.

Anis, Muna, Chris, Alvin and I were asked by the head master to teach at the school and we happily said yes because it would be a pleasure. We discussed and agreed that we would teach the children some English language and sport activities. So we taught them how to say “my name is…”, draw a picture of there favourite object and discuss and describe to the class what the picture illustrated. We then went on to play “duck and goose”, sing and act out the hokey Kokey, tug of war and relay race. The children really enjoyed all the singing

Gerald pushed him self extremely hard by attempting to break his personal best record for the amount of holes he could dig in a day. Previous he has been able to dig four holes in a day with a partner but today he was attempting four all by himself. The leader of the project commented on Gerlad’s focus, strength and consistency and named him Mr Challenger.

The village is a very beautiful place filled with some amazingly wonderful experiences. It’s an experience that has taken the Uprising leadership participants by storm and blown us all away. It would be a pleasure to tell other young people who have an interest in personal and professional development and public leadership to get involved in international projects.

We have stimulated and intrigued the villagers with a simple game of western style volley ball and cricket. My self being on the opposition side came face to face with an organised group of sporty young villagers who almost thrashed us at the sport and I was amazed to see how the barriers between our languages did not hinder the success of the game. Although their national sport is hockey after getting to know the villages I realised that they have a passion for cricket and it has a big following. Just an observation, although we worked hard at digging the holes I expected this task to unite the villagers but it did not. What really brought the people together was celebration and sport.

Students from the university heard about the project and they thought that the project was a fantastic idea but their interest and focus is women and children development programmes and projects.

Today we had to fill  each hole had to be filled with 10 buckets of water approx. The task was challenging individually but as a team we conquer and met the objectives. The team formed a line to the waters edge to the field where the wholes were filled one by one with buckets of water. We moved back and for the filling and refilling the buckets and what we could not do at today we will complete tomorrow.

The team met their target of 68 holes and exceeded their targets by two or more holes. We are very happy about this success and the task kept us well motivated for the planting of the mango trees.

Some of the team went swimming in the lake and enjoyed it very much. At first we had reservations about the fun activity but sooner rather than later we let all reservations go and went for it…Kimberley Pratt

24^th of June

Today for me has been a real eye opener! I volunteered to be day leader the night before and had just begun my role. I took the caring approach… which means that I cared about the people getting on with each other and bonding more than digging holes and acting like robots. Not that they are or have been. I just wanted people to relax more today and find out more about the souls they have been stuck with since the beginning of this trip. I believe that if a leader cares about the people he leads they will follow him any where. Also, if you respect people that they will respect you more in return and plus work more efficiently and harder for you. Knowing this I deployed my ideas into the team and these were:

In the morning:

To team up in couples, working only with someone you haven’t worked with, find 3 things that your partner loves and their most important or most inspiring moment in their lives.

In the afternoon,

The couples that were formed in the morning had to change again to work with people that they haven’t worked with before. But this time with your new partner find 3 things that they loath and the lowest or worst moment in their lives.

I made sure people were happy with the work throughout the day. I made sure that people were aware of blisters and that on my watch I wouldn’t accept people being careless and suffering from blisters. I told every one if any soreness is felt even at the slightest, they should take a break and plaster their hands with Zinc Oxide tape to halt any blister formations. During the afternoon I stopped the hole digging and instead took the opportunity to get the team familiar with tents and how to assemble them so we had a show down on tent building. Boys against the Girls as always. This time I’m glad to say the boys won. Common Lads that’s the spirit.… Sorry!? I can’t help getting compassionate about the lads winning especially after we got thrashed by the girls the previous day on a hole digging show down. Any ways after the tent competition I got the group to sit under a tree and relax for 30 minutes due to the scorching hot weather. Mind you it hasn’t rained for days and when it does it’s like a joke. The soil is extremely dry and it makes our work even tougher. Still I believe 6 holes were dug today and people even stayed behind until 5.30pm to finish off what they started which showed me that these guys are truly committed especially when we suppose to finish at 4.30pm.

After I declared the end of the working day I got every one together and spoke about my experiences with them and that these days have been extremely important to me. I also told people that I was extremely proud to be here and that I am gaining so much from this experience. After the speech I handed out the groups personal messages that they had written to themselves before we left for the trip. Every one was quite happy and surprised. We got home and as we did I began to prepare my treat for my group. This was a lemonade ‘Indian style’. It went down very well with supper.

At approximately 9pm I began the meeting to end my day as leader. I asked everyone to inform me of their findings from the tasks they were appointed. I then followed that with the good and bad point about me leading them today. Naturally Good points were asked first, honestly I was surprised about what people said, especially Alvin about how much I had changed since Roffey Park and Uprising. He truly admired me and said that he could see me as a true leader. This was echoed by the rest of the group with the girls commenting on how decent I was and how natural I was as a leader. On the bad points well….. There were none! How about that! Well it shows that my leadership qualities did shine today and that my approach to leading people is sound.

On a personal note I just want to say that I’m grateful to the Young Foundation to give me this opportunity to meet such a brilliant group of people. I feel like I’ve found my second family! Also I just want to thank the Raleigh team to set this up and give me this once in a life time opportunity to develop myself and find my true self.

One thing I have realised is that we only have one life and that we should make the most of it. People and families will always cheer and jeer but in the end its your decision that counts not theirs because its your life and its you who goes home to your own bed not them they go to their own beds. So never care about what people have to say, they change like the weather. What really counts is what you say and do. Geeta for my only love I love you.

When I go back to England I believe I will be a better and more defined character. I will have the ability to carry all the qualities that I have found from my fellow Uprisers.

Gerald has given me my strength

Asma my honesty

Muna my courage

Chris and Freda my patience

Alvin my wisdom

Shamu my integrity

A J  my laughter

Zin my diplomacy

Angel my softness

Kimberly my ambiti0on and determination

This isn’t to say that I didn’t have these qualities before but rather I have been polished and these qualites have been more defined. I’m a better person because of them. And I will love all of them equally. To my second family the uprising team I love.  Thank you

P.S a few words of wisdom never let time ruin you. In other words no matter what follow your dreams and don’t let time cheat you out of them… Anis Aneel Idress

22^nd June

Day 8 at the Huskurahi village, South India.

At a lovely school surrounded by beautiful little children, along with an uncountable numbers of cows and dogs, this has been our home for the past week. 3 bowls (a washing system for cutlery and mess tins) before and after our meals just come as second nature to us, and bringing a torch to the toilet ‘just in case’ is normality. Washing in the nearby lake with my (biodegradable) shampoo and soap bar, followed by a nice cup of tea with chocolate (courtesy of Amanda’s shop!) is definitely the best way to end a day of hard work.

Just today, 13 Uprisers along with 5 staff members dug 8 full holes and left 7 and a half unfinished holes. This is quite an achievement given the heat we were working under. Overall I think we have completed over 50 something perfect holes in the field.

Some highlights of the day:

AJ’s superb leadership-throughout the day he kept us motivated with little games/exercises and tasks to do, including boys vs. girls hole digging competition at the end of the day (girls won, hands down) which was a lot of fun; thanks must go to Anis and Sophie for their effort in preparing a lovely meal of battered fish, served alongside the traditional South Indian vegetarian main meal-the feast brought us back to the life that we are missing; visiting Veejay’s house for ‘chai’ just across from the school in the village gave us a glimpse of the simple life that keeps a family content in this beautiful and friendly village.

Just worth a mention that as per usual around dinner time, electricity was out again and no water from the taps. But there is no stopping us-we are the Uprisers after all!

Our future leaders take turns in drawing water from the well just across the ‘road’ for our supplies and eating as well as having our daily reflection meetings in the dark is just as enjoyable as it is in the light.

Personally I really look forward to the 3 day trek at the Bandipoor National Park. As much as we love Huskurahi and its people the change of scenery may shift the group dynamics and I am interested to see how that will work out.

Finally to our friends and family reading this blog, you are very much missed by all of us. And by the time you are reading this, we are most probably trekking and looking at all the exotic animals along the way.

Blessings & hugs…Freda

Sunday 21^st June

1 am: Have you ever slept in a room with rumbling rhinos? I haven’t, but if its anything like walking into our “bedroom” at night when the snorers are in full force, then I know what it sounds like.

5.30am: Waking up to Karen’s alarm (Caribbean music) is quite a nice change to waking up in a quiet and safe environment! Getting up at 6am on our day off sucks, but I’ll at least get to see an elephant today – as long as we’re on time.

6.29am: our leader walks into our room and declares the time.

6.31am: our leader walks into our room and declares the time.

6.35am: our leader walks into our room and declares the time.

6.45am: I am sweeping outside and our leader declares the time! Lol

Okay no more times cos we’re doing things the Indian way! The bus arrives “India time” – approx 2hrs late. When we’ve loaded onto the bus, there are 23 of us in a 17 seater! It almost feels like a true Indian experience – only thing missing is 14 more kids and a cow on the roof.

Driving along the “countryside” can only be described as… well let’s put it this way, when we’re driving on that bumpy road, I’m wondering whether it’s possible to dislodge my stomach!

The view of the land that we pass is almost enough to make me forget about the mini earthquakes.  These people are “poor” in our context and yet their land is vast and luscious.  This is their life, their futures, their dreams and their aspirations for their children. I’m beginning to comprehend how a country with so little (materialistic things) can prosper and be so beautiful.

I spend some of the ride writing this and the remaining time smiling and waving to anyone that we pass. This is something I’ve been doing with anyone and everyone and sometimes I’ll get blank stares, but when I get returning smile – or even a wave, it touches my heart.

We’re passing dogs, reminding me of our mascot “bruno”. He needs a mention cos I’ve almost overcome my “terrification” (fear) of dogs – once you get past the spine chilling fear when you look at these flea ridden dogs, he sleeps quite cute.

I miss my family. For a second, sitting on the bus, it hits me hard and suddenly. I haven’t had time to think/miss anyone, but the scenery, reminds me of driving through similar roads a couple months ago in Bangladesh with my family. If you’re reading this, I miss you all and hope you’re living this with us through our blogs.

We stop at gates separating us from “Orange County Bandipur National Park”. Its another hour waiting for the “Jeeps”.  We set off and we see the following:

• Deers and hogs milling around together and even gallivanting together!
• A grey monkey on the ground running in leaps and bounds.
• A beautiful navy and black peacock swooping down to land on the ground.
• A lonely elephant, watching us, as it eats grass – it was approx four metres away from me! We couldn’t have asked for a better view.
• Deers around a lake – almost like they were in a community meeting!
• A mama elephant with her baby by a lake.
• A crocodile slinking into murky waters!
• And every few seconds we see butterflies flying past – adding a delectable range of colours to the scenery – yellows, whites, and even blues and blacks.

Those who took time out from looking for wildlife, would also have seen some of these amazing things:

• A forest so thick that you cant even see past the first layer of trees.  I tried to imagine the things that would be playing in these woods – including bears, elephants, tarzan, witches and maybe even a unicorn for Karen.
• A type of bush that has more than one colour flowers! Half pink, half purple.
• Peppermint plants, tangy and sweet smelling plants
• Trees that had fallen over showed their roots, like old men with stickly fingers.
• Trees that had been cut down had only stumps remaining which could have told us its age and something about the life it lived
• Little cream and pink cup mushrooms and huge grey and white flat mushrooms – probably all poisonous and deadly!

This safari has given us a teasing glimpse of what we’ll see when we go on our trek.

We stopped at a shopping area and I bought a coconut to drink for 10 rupees (15p), others were sold the same at 24 rupees. I also bought 60 hair clips for 50 rupees (75p).

When back at “home”, we had a couple hours free, Alvin and I went out to explore the village.  In the 6 days we’ve been here, we’ve only walked down one road – leading to the area we work. Today we walked around a completely different way – the village only has two rows of “houses”.  To call them houses is almost hurtful because they are only about 6 metres cubed! But they are well looked after because these people have pride and look after their prized possessions.  Religious depictions and pictures of family members hang in every house that we pass.  People sit outside watching the road – I want to ask what they are waiting for but am terrified that I’ll be insinuating that they are doing nothing with their time.

We walk past the village toward the lake and come across a few “tents”.  It’s not like a tent from argos; it’s sticks with some kind of cloth over it – their height is not enough for people to sit up inside.  When I realise it’s actually families living in these circumstances, it’s almost enough to make me turn back around.  Shallowly, I’m thinking I don’t want to see their living standards because it’ll make me feel guilty about what I have… I can’t say this cos I’m with Alvin, so I plough on.  We walk up to them, they are sitting in a circle having a discussion with a few children milling around.  I wave and smile and motion to ask to sit down.  Once sitting I find it quite easy to sit and “chat”. Suddenly I decide to sing the birthday song! I know that the men and kids know the song cos I’ve been singing it for a few days.  Its lovely seeing the adults’ faces when the kids join in.

On our return journey, I hand out glittery hair clips to a few of the younger girls, but after giving out only three packets, I start feeling awfully guilty.  It gradually becomes an enormous weight and I ask Alvin if we can stop and return.

I return to camp and go to our room. I feel awful.  We’re here in a community that is almost ignorant (untouched) to the world’s problems because their community and life is within a much more confined space. I begin to wonder why we’re here and if we’re awfully selfish coming here to develop ourselves – but at what cost to the community?  Afterall, we’re probably only going to be able to achieve two acres – instead of the five. So what are we really doing for them? I’m terrified that we’ll influence this community and they’ll see our culture, assume we’re happy and maybe change their ways because the western world is so much “better”.  I’m terrified that we’re showing these people how well off we are and how much “better” we’re doing that when we leave, it’ll leave them feeling bitter.  I’m afraid that we’re not achieving nearly enough.  I talked to Pedro who tried to give me some perspective, but I’m called over by the cook to make some chappatis with him.  He was thinking he could teach me, but I gave him a spectacular shock when I showed him I already knew how.

When I come back, Asma is in the room.  When I tell her how I feel I’m surprised to hear that she feels exactly the same and when she says I’m probably feeling it because we’re halfway through the project. We’ve got less than a week to go. I realise I don’t want to leave holes as my legacy for my time here. I want to touch the people. I want them to be happy and prosper even more so because of our work.  So instead of worrying about how hard I dig, I’m spending the next few days worrying about how to get involved in the community.

The rest of the evening is uneventful.  I like my ending quote to the group – “LITTLE THINGS HAPPEN IN BIG COUNTRIES”… this is in response to various conflicts and disputes that have arisen. I want everyone to make the most of this expedition and let the little things go, because in a country this big, what does it matter if someone says something mean – right?

I’d better get to bed… I have no concept of time, but the rumbling rhinos (snoring) have begun near me, so it must be pretty late!

Good night and farewell until next time.

Kobita

20^th June

Today I was murdered.  Don’t worry, all the UpRisers are safe, happy and healthy – but unfortunately I was an early victim in the game of “murder” that Zin was describing in yesterdays blog.  Alvin was my cold hearted executioner – giving me hand-lotion (the murder weapon) while I was in the Storeroom (the murder place).

Anyway, today Angel was day leader, and immediately she revealed her leadership skills by achieving the impossible – she ensured everybody was out of bed, finished breakfast, and carrying their tools to the fields by 7.30am…  An incredible and unprecedented achievement!  The day’s successes continued as we completed hole after hole in the morning, and by lunch we were comfortably on course to meet our 10 holes per day target.

The day then got even better, as Mark, Amanda and Veejay came to visit from the Mysore Raleigh Field Base.  The UpRisers had been greatly anticipating this visit all week.  This was mainly because the field base team were all great guys, but also because Amanda was bringing her “tuck shop” of sweets and treats!  Personally I stocked up on as much chocolate as I could carry, and it’s fair to say I wasn’t the only person trying to buy every piece of junk food in Amandas shop!

Back in the fields we slaved away in the afternoon sun and, with some help from Mark, Amanda and Veejay we exceeded our target, digging 11 holes in a single day.  There is no way I can over-exaggerate the achievement of digging a metre into dry, solid soil under the scorching sun, using only the most basic of gardening implements.  I was partnered with Dawn today, and I can certainly say that we were both aching and exhausted from digging our holes!

After the days hole digging success, Mark organised a feedback session with us, so that he could see how we were all getting on.  We started this useful session in the school grounds, discussing our goals for the trip, and how were we progressing against them.  Unfortunately our session was interrupted by a visiting politician – just as Shamu was about to tell us about his personal goals a convoy of vehicles screeched to a halt outside the school and we were told in no uncertain terms that the premises were needed for an important meeting.  Apparently there had been some minor dispute over land ownership between our village and a neighbouring village.

Fortunately we were able to retreat to one of our bedrooms (one of the school classrooms) and continue our feedback meeting.  Mark, Amanda and Veejay then departed – but not before Amanda left us yet more treats – this time a bag of fresh fruit.  Thanks Amanda!

Once Mark, Amanda and Veejay departed back to Field Base we continued the meeting to discuss a few minor grievances between the group.  It seems strange to think that a week ago many of us barely knew each other, but now we were living out of one anothers pockets.  Obviously in any situation like this people are bound to annoy one another a little, but Angel facilitated a good, open, honest session and I think we all understood each other a little better for it.

Before I wrap up today’s blog, I have a few final things to mention. Firstly that today a mini-fishing trip was organised for Zin, Anis and Alvin to bring the group fish for dinner.  Unfortunately their boat didn’t want to float… Ask them if you want to know more about this! Secondly, I need to mention Muna today.  Just because I promised I would.  You dug well today Muna.  And finally, Asma, stop drinking all of the Tang! …Chris

From Huskurhadi

Blogging for Thursday 18^th June:  by Shamu.

Even after the plane took off for Bangalore from Dubai I didn’t know how I was feeling? Now it’s been 4 days and we are in Huskurhadi, a village in Mysore district, Karnataka state, India. We are digging holes to plant mango and amla trees for those innocent faced people who are deprived from a better life as the urban areas people enjoy. At least electricity is here in the village.  The only transport connection is to the nearest town is via KST (Karnataka state transport) bus service twice a day.

The people of Huskurhadi were brought into this village almost 25 years ago from forest areas. But even after a quarter century the New India or Incredible India has failed to contrast their standard of life with that of the typical other villages that were existing before the tribal forest groups moved. I wonder what are the reasons behind this contradictory picture in rural India. Is it cast system, socio-cultural imbalance that was borne after long British colonial ruling? My thinking struck a stone while I was hitting the earth, my ‘day partner’ Rosie advised me to be more cautious. It’s amazing digging a hole in the earth….. I think everybody should dig a hole sometime in their life.  My imagination or perception could not go much deeper after digging a one metre deep hole or after finding the layer of water which is serving the poor villagers by coming through a ‘tube well’ near to the primary school where we are residing for 2 weeks.

If I start from the beginning – how we settled in the school at the beginning – then I have to start by mentioning the ‘ladies’ discrimination with us. From using the nearest toilet to choosing the bigger room – in every single matter it seems like it’s their right to get the better/better one. Then again they scream every evening in every argument that they are equal with men. 18 of us including 2 PMs (not prime minister…project manager) is a classic example of a team of varied interesting character and also represents the world from China to Argentina …Bangladesh to Morocco. It seems like we connected the world map in an amazing way by coming into Huskurhadi. Still wondering what is coming our way in the next two weeks. I’m very much looking forward to the adventure trekking and seeing some elephants and tigers and other interesting species.

Nevertheless I am missing my life in London, friends in Facebook and special species in some superstore in London. Amongst the team I am so proud of some characters and really grateful to some of them. As usual my lack of respecting silly rules and restriction earned some frowning mums and dads and according to Gerald I am controversial. Anis is helping me like my cousin brother by letting me keep my money and other stuff with him. However it’s a common scene that we all gather for a meeting, lunch or dinner and Anis is the last person we are waiting for. My sister Kimberly and I laugh without any reason and this leads us to more never ending laughter. People think we are crazy. Me and Kimberly will remember the phrase ‘oh I can’t take it no more, this is too much’ she said it once and I found it really funny and then I started to say it whenever I am a little frustrated. Another nice person is here is Kobita. She and AJ and I are constantly entertaining the team. The only person who is with some weight in here and representing Bangladeshi ethnicity is Asma. I gave her nickname ‘white paper’. After that we are now seeing some of her strong qualities. I was amazed by her leadership quality on her day to lead the group. Gerald and AJs jokes are mostly 18+ rated and I believe they need to wash their mouths with dettol or savlon. Gerald’s hard work and strength reminds me of Hercules. He never says no to any request for help. Without mentioning Angel and Alvin I can’t finish writing this blog. They are my partners for cigarettes and very helpful. Especially this expedition has brought Angel and me into a closer level of friendship. She really looks after me and gives me company intellectually. And last I want to mention Zin who is being here for me more than a brother and am happy that he made it. Otherwise my expedition would have been very dull and sad … Shamu

Lovely Days in India

17/06/2009

After two lovely days at the Raleigh Field Base, we were more than ready for the next challenge. We packed our rucksacks and off we went for our next adventure in a somewhat eccentric (or possibly absurd) bus that would take us to the small village Huskurhadi. The bus was quite small, hot and stuffy, but with loads of different patterns and bright colours inside, which you could not have guessed looking at it from the outside. Complimenting this extraordinary interior design were two chandeliers, great stuff!

After a bumpy ride and Shamu singing ‘no woman no cry’ in both English and Bengali for about two hours we arrived at the village and we were all excited, having no idea what to expect. The welcoming by the people in the village was overwhelming. There were people everywhere, both young, and old, and despite the fact that they are so poor they had the biggest smiles on their faces and looked happier than many people I see back home. The children were so lovely and a couple of them sang at a special ceremony held to welcome us, which was very moving.    We settled in nicely and I was very excited about starting work the following day. In the girls room, however, sleeping was disrupted by a noise that gave snoring a new meaning (I wont mention any names ;0)

Today was a great day. Although I’ve barely met or had the chance to get to know Rosie and Dawn prior to the expedition, as well as the Raleigh team, I feel like we’ve known each other for a long time and that I’m on an expedition with 17 lovely friends. As for the UpRisers we all have very strong personalities. We have heated debates, we argue, clash, and sometimes misunderstand each other; as well as being supportive, masking sure that no one is left out and challenge each other to be the best we can be. We pulled together and did a great job today with Alvin being the day leader (he was great btw!), digging about 10 holes I believe. We are all motivated and focused on helping the community and achieving the objectives of the project as well as having loads of fun with the people living here.

Last but not least, I want to say that so far this has been an incredible journey, both inspiring and unpredictable and I cannot wait to see what tomorrow brings. I’ve got so much to say and so many stories to tell, but Ill save some for when I get home. Goodnight!                . . . . Angelica.

    19/06/2009

 The crew were feeling a tiny bit lazy today! It was a mixture between being tired, doing repetitive tasks like digging up the same earth in of the same field every day and emptying it and eating the same vegetable food. Its actually quite challenging to keep yourself motivated to carry on doing such tasks. But we managed to pick ourselves up in the afternoon and finished 7 or 8 holes with 8 teams of people which was amazing. So, a couple of nights ago, we came up with the idea of pairing up and digging/finishing holes together. This is a great way of actually getting to know one another and to bond. Its very enlightening and I’ve really got to know UpRisers and Raleigh staff. We also elect an UpRiser to be the leader for the day and manage progress, the timetable and tasks for the day along with heads of key tasks for the day i.e. cooking breakfast (porridge…eww!); sweeping and moping the school, mini medic and someone responsible for the collection of the tools. It’s a challenge, everyone must pull their weight but its extremely rewarding. We also help encourage one another and, at the end of the day, walk to the river, swim and play. Its really been a fab experience I am so grateful for this opportunity. We’ve been exposed to a very rural and traditional society & culture where only 50 families live. Hardly anyone speaks English and those that do so speak very limited. I’ve recently learned that these villagers originally lived in the forests and the Indian government developed a plan to draw them into towns by providing them the tools for and aiding them in building homes and food. Our job is to help build 1 metre square and deep holes so that they can (presumably) plant something inside them and proving them with the means of livelihood. Every villager will be given a plot of land to own and to then cultivate it and earn money from it. Its amazing to see how simple the lives of the villagers are. Even though we are materialistically much better off they have a far more superior quality of life its just so inspiring.

Today was a really insightful day too. After lunch everyone returned to the field whilst I remained behind briefly. I got to see what really goes on in the village whilst we’re away. Usually as we walk down the path way and the fields the villagers, especially their kids, stand at the gates of their homes to waive and shout out “hi”. The villagers expected me to have already been at the fields developing more blisters. I mean it was not as if they were putting on a face for us but it was a different perspective. If my silly camera was working I could of took such amazing and original photos- maybe even could of submitted them to photo competitions and actually won something. However, walking down the long and muddy path I did feel as if I was a loner travelling across the world and experience new people and new cultures. I saw all sorts of weird but wonderful stuff. Many contradictions and many surprises. The sort of stuff one would only notice and appreciate alone- amazing, I felt free and like I could do this forever. Also, there was not a single European in sight… amazing! I got to see just how harsh their lives really are. It was just me, the villagers and mother nature. Magical.

I don’t miss England or my lifestyle yet. I love this simple life so much its so great to get away from the mania of London. I love my job, I love my family and friends but I can’t say I miss them yet.

We started a new game today called “Murder” where everyone had to write a murder tool (e.g. pen) and a place (e.g. water pump) on a piece of paper and after having been given the name of the person they had to kill, and draw their tool and place from a bag, they had from now on to execute their plan! Whether it would take hours, days, weeks or even until we reach London we’d play it and see who wins. What this means is that all the time and effort we spent getting to know each other and bond has been shattered in merely 20 minutes and now everyone is suspicious of one another. Its great! I’ve already formulated my plan to kill my victim though its going to be hard. However, its so bizarre that I might just get away with it. Tomorrow will tell.

However, to end, I so love it here and I’ve finally got to travel after all this time. In a weeks time we’ll have our three day trek and I can’t wait for it.

With the very best of wishes whoever or wherever you may be,  ….. Zín.

UpRising Initiative

Us UpRisers have shown our skills and learnt much throughout the UpRising leadership programme. Whether it be lessons in oratory or tips on how to build a mass movement, we have gained a lot of both hard and soft skills to last a lifetime.

One of these skills is initiative, or taking the initiative. Defined as a ’readiness to embark on bold new ventures,’ ‘the first of a series of actions’ or ’serving to set in motion,’ many of this year’s pioneering cohort have readily displayed this skill in our community campaigns. Not only that, the Young Foundation itself embodies what taking the initiative is, the UpRising Leadership Programme being a testament to just that.

Now, however, we really are going to see whether or not taking the initiative can be useful in a very different set of circumstances. We have flown to India and we have had two days to adjust to the climate and eating habits of the local people. I have just used my initiative to volunteer as the first team leader of the group on our first day in the rural village we will be staying in for the next 12 days. I have also taken the initiative to document the faces of our group and the locals as part of the photography exhibition I intend to curate when I return to London. But I have also shown my initiative in being the first person to fall victim to tavellers tummy. Evidently, taking the initiative is not always a good thing.

I am about to rush off to the village now and I wish I had more time to edit this piece and do the ‘UpRising Initiative’ more justice. This strict adherence to time and deadlines is more of an import of our hectic Western lifestyles, different from the laidback ‘Indian time’ which is refreshing.

Just before I leave, I would just like to make one last note. India is like the Philippines: the same rusty-tin-rooved shops, drivers who love to show their teeth and a place where religion almost, if not does, reign supreme. I realised this within the first 5 minutes of the coach-ride from the airport towards the Raleigh International Field Base. What was even more intriguing was that my fellow UpRisers felt the same for their respective countries. India is like Jamaica, India is like Bangladesh, India is like [insert developing country].

One of the biggest lessons so far, then, is that there really is a distinction between the developed and developing worlds (keeping in mind the dissimilarities between the cities, slums and rural areas within a nation’s borders). But with Westerners deciding to move to and live in the developing world, like some of those who are running the UpRising Programme in India, the idea of ‘backward nations’ proclaimed in the reading lists of history and politics courses of Western universities is misinformed. Instead,  developing countries are not ‘backward,’ they are just different.

Others might even conclude that the hectic lifestyles, the hustle and bustle of city living and the fat bellies we’ve grown as part of our fast-food diets and tv-watching is going backward rather than moving forward.

Indian life is a different life to our British one. Rather than using our initiative to bring India to be like us (we’ve alredy shown how bad we can be with the actions of our financial leaders and the political turmoil destabilising the nation), we should use our UpRising Initiative to bring better understanding between our cultures and people and maybe even start and UpRising Leadership Programme in India! One day, maybe.

Alvin Carpio