Four weeks from now, I will be off the ground, in the air, on the way to Kingston, Jamaica. Just prior to take-off, when a customs official in Ottawa asks what the purpose of this trip is, can I answer both business and pleasure? Because although I will be going to work there, this journey is already a source of happiness. 

CUSO International is sending me as a volunteer to work with a non-profit agency called Youth Opportunities Unlimited. YOU Jamaica works with young people (aged 10-19) through mentoring and career counselling with the noble goals of building self-esteem, encouraging them to stay in school and determining a career path. 

I spoke with the executive director (who will be my boss) via Skype for the first time yesterday. Her name is Mrs. Georgia Lewis Scott and we had a great conversation that was interrupted by the sounds of birds calling to one another. My role will draw upon my experience as a journalist and communications specialist as I help to implement a marketing and public relations plan. The goals are several: to raise awareness of this worthy cause, to attract additional funds and volunteers and to share my knowledge of communications with staff.

Over the next month, as I prepare to depart, I will talk more about what it takes to get ready for such an endeavour, about CUSO International and YOU Jamaica and whatever else comes to mind. I will also provide a link to my fundraising page, where you can donate to CUSO.

Thanks for reading and I hope you follow me on this amazing journey.