Today we spent the day learning about the many facets of Ubuntu. When we first I arrived, I mused over what Ubuntu actually stood for and contemplated asking if the word stood for anything in particular. Today I started to understand exactly what that word meant.
“Ubuntu is the belief that what makes us human is the humanity we show each other.” Ubuntu is what unites a poverty-stricken population into a community.  This idea was elaborated on by each staff member that took the time to sit down and talk to us about everything that they do at Ubuntu. I was struck by the amazing enthusiasm which pulsed through each person, even as they spoke of serious sorrow. I remember a specific story that was shared about a young girl who as HIV positive who defaulted because she wanted to receive the benefits of being classified as disabled. Another resounding memory was when we were informed that some people are actually very upset when they find that they are negative for HIV. Throughout the day we learned about the different ways Ubuntu supports those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.  Ubuntu has four major programs; HIV Prevention, Youth Empowerment, Case Management, and HIV Testing and Treatment.
First, we visited the overcrowded and understaffed day hospital. This is one of the most memorable moments of the day for me. When we walked in, I was standing in the front asking questions and I was greeted by stares. These stares were unlike any other stare I have ever experienced. They were not unfriendly but they were not welcoming either.  I finally felt the flip side of racism. It was the strangest experience. The clinic also surprised me with their positive outlook on AIDS and HIV. They view it as a chronic manageable disorder rather than a fatal disease.  The clinic also provides soup for their patients, specifically the TB patients. This food is all grown in their gardens. These gardens are incredible because not only do they provide food for the soups they also provide an opportunity for “each one, teach one”. This is evident by the opportunity for people can learn to cultivate their own gardens on a smaller scale in order to provide for their families. These gardens also provide food for the schools, which is an incredible feat.  After a long day of learning about Ubuntu we returned to our B & B to relax until the Braa’i. A braa’I is equilivent to our barbeque except for the excessive amount of meat. I have literally never seen that much meat in my life. Even our local B & B dog, Levi, ran away with a whole lamb chop! Everyone enjoyed the Braa’i and our lovely cooks; Asanda , Bora, and GIRLS NAME. All in all it was an incredible day pack full of new experiences.
Ashley.