Saturday, September 5, 2015

Jessica's Final Post

As our projects in South Africa have come to a close for this summer, I am amazed by the new things we learned, the inspiring people we met, and the unforgettable experiences we had. Being able to do this project has meant so much to me and I am so grateful to have partnered with the Urban Futures Center and to have worked with the wonderful non-profit organizations and community members in Kenneth Gardens.

While the main focus of this project was to introduce practical technology that would further the mission and capacity of these non-profit organizations, I am reminded that technology is meant to enhance interpersonal relationships, not replace them. At the end of the day it is the strengthening of relationships and dedication amongst the community members that makes the impact. I am humbled by being able to share some technology tools with these amazing non-profits, and to have been embraced by such loving and courageous people. They will always have a place in my heart, and I hope our paths will cross again.

That being said, there are so many people I need to thank for making this project possible (so bear with me!). Much thanks and respect to the:

Everett Program- Professor Chris Benner, Katie Roper, Thomas Gelder and the South Africa planning team- Tyler Spencer, Elizabeth Arzouni, Lili Sierra and my project and travel partner in-crime Andrew Blackwelder

Durban University of Technology Urban Futures Centre- Dr. Kira Erwin and Professor Monique Marks, Dr. Tamlynn Fleetwood, Dennis Ocheing of the Digital Media Archive labs and DUT IT department

Sezokuhle Home Based Care Organisation- Project Manager Khanyi Sibya, Treasurer Zethu Jali and the other members

Carrots and Peas Kitchen: Zandile Ntaka, Joyce Gunkle, Maggie Khwela, Thami Khoza and many volunteers

Finally, I would like to thank UCSC's Blum Center, the Everett Program and friends and family who so kindly offered financial support to make this experience possible.

Nogothando (with love),
Jessica
Andrew recording video and audio

Andrew and Tyler at Paradise Valley

Khanyi, Andrew and I at the clinic

Khanyi dressing me in a beautiful beaded headband, necklace and earrings

Friday, September 4, 2015

Final Post for Andrew

Dear Slugs in South Africa Readers,

My time in South Africa came to an end. Working with DUT (Durban University Technology) Urban Futures, Senzokuhle Home Based Care Organisation, Carrots and Peas, and Youth Digital  Archive Lab was all an incredible experience. Thank you very much to Prof. Chris Benner, Prof. Monique Marks, Dr. Kira Erwin, Dr. Tamlynn Fleetwood, Katie Roper, The Everett Program, South African Committee (Tyler Spencer, Elizabeth Arzouni, and Lilli Sierra), and Jessica Crosby a incredible project partner. 
Also Checkout:
The Carrots and Peas Website and Promo Video
Senzokuhle Home Based Care Organisation Blog
Youth Digital  Archive Lab Website


Peace,
Andrew Blackwelder

Jessica Crosby at the beach
Kami Chere
Last meal in Durban

Senzokuhle collaborating with student nurses from King Edwards Hospital
Senzokuhle collaborating with Carrots and Peas bringing meals to patents throughout KG

Folks Lunch

The Peoples Line at Carrots and Peas

Clothes Line with Lunch
KG Transport
Carrots and Onion

Large Portions of Rice

Zindile (Carrots and Peas)

Joyce (Carrots and Peas)

Kami (Carrots and Peas)


Zakhele Shozi (Carrots and Peas)

Siboniso Shozi (Carrots and Peas)

Say no Evil, Hear no Evil, and See no Evil
Food and Nutrition DUT

Uncle Charles (Carrots and Peas)

Patricia T. Khuzwayo (Senzokuhle)

Untitled Beach Series




At home chillin' with my brother Peter about to jam. Check out a new track from the band he's in Skin & Bones.
Photography by Andrew Thomas Blackwelder