Rain a fall, as Jamaicans say. It has been raining since early this morning, when I set out with a couple of running group friends. We tackled the hill in 8-Mile and it was sprinkling as we started. My fellow runners, Jamaicans, were hesitant to run in the rain. I laughed as I told them that I’ve run in blizzards, hail, sleet, what have you. By the end of the run, it was full on raining, and they claimed my culture is now rubbing off on them.

The rain did not limit the turnout for my next event, the release of an exciting report by fellow Cuso volunteer Erin on her gender research. To be specific, Erin researched the concept of “gender mainstreaming” and how it can be incorporated into all facets of Jamaican life. It was very interesting and prompted a lively discussion amongst attendants, who were mostly women and mostly from civil society.

These pictures were taken last week at Devon House upon the departure of Stefanie, a delightful intern from Germany. She was with YOU for the past few months doing research for her university course. She was also an invaluable help to me as I worked on my television report. We already miss her. Check out the cute keychain she had made for us!