Hannah's Trip to South Sudan

I attend London Waldorf School, and in our Grade 8 year, we do a year-long project on a topic of our choice. Five years ago, my dad was a part of the Canadian Aid for Southern Sudan (CASS) team for their annual trip to the Aweil region of South Sudan.  I have been interested ever since.  For my project, I have chosen to learn about the experiences of young girls growing up in South Sudan, and I am very excited to be joining the CASS team and travelling there in January. I hope to be spending most of my time there with the children, being with them and doing as much as I can to learn about their lives.  CASS has been travelling to the Aweil region of South Sudan for the past 18 years. During that time, Londoners have been in the area helping to rehabilitate former slaves, build public schools, develop women's programs, offer clean water initiatives, supply medicines to rural clinics, run music and arts camps, and train women leaders.

I am looking for support to finance my trip.  All monies raised will go directly towards my plane fare, and all monies over the amount I need will go to CASS for their work there.   You can either donate here, or go directly to the CASS website and indicate 'Hannah's trip'.  

A little bit about asking for money.  I felt selfish and uncomfortable to ask, knowing that there is famine and conflict in the region. Then I heard Glen tell the story about asking the people there if it would be better to send the money that they would use for the plane tickets, instead of coming themselves.  The people were not impressed, and thought they were being forgotten.  They told him that their presence year after year gave them hope. 

I want to be a sign of hope for the young people of South Sudan.  I believe that the presence of someone my age can be an especially strong message. I am excited to meet the children and be with them.  When I come home, I want to be committed to telling their stories, so the world will not forget them.

thank you!
Hannah