How the pavlova became a Namibian favourite
31 January 2012
In January 2011, 59-year-old Christine Ross joined her husband Wally, while he was on a one-year assignment with AVI as a VET Adviser - Bricklayer with the Namibian Training Authority. Here she tells her story from the partner’s perspective:
I travelled with Wally, as a non-salaried partner (NSP – this is a term AVI uses for a partner or family members joining a volunteer while they are on assignment), to Namibia in Africa, not knowing what to expect, or what I would do to fill my days.
Once we were settled in Katima Malilo, central Africa, I invited people over who had helped us settle in. We soon received many invitations. This opportunity saw us meet some amazing people, and they quickly learnt what I could do, like trim hair, (well, I had practised on my children years ago). Before I knew it I became the local hairdresser!
I also like to cook so when we went anywhere I always took something yummy, like pavlova. This Aussie favourite soon became a Namibian favourite, so we did get our share of invites.
I became good friends with a local lady called Carol. She introduced me to her sewing group. One day Carol and I drove about 120 kilometres where we met with village ladies from Zambia. We gathered under a tree, where I helped them to hand sew bags. On completion Carol would take the bags to a craft market to sell on their behalf. To help them out I tapped into my memory of making cushions and adapted the pattern to make hats. The ladies were so patient. They were able to follow my instruction, even though they did not speak English and I didn’t know their language.
I also had the opportunity to visit a local home for children with disabilities. The children were quick to catch on that I wasn't much good at chasing a ball, so I started baking cookies with some of the younger girls at the home.
I had a most wonderful experience and would recommend this to anyone willing to take time out from their western life style.
As I write this, I realise I have been back for over a month. I have settled back easily to the old lifestyle. Nothing here has changed, except I am now very aware of how quickly the days go by and the amazing experiences you can have on the other side of the world.