Building Bonds in Lisbon

We were overjoyed to receive an invitation to the Europe North Welfare Self-Reliance Services (WSRS) manager’s council in beautiful Lisbon, Portugal.

The two-day event was a wonderful experience that aimed to equip us with the tools we need to succeed in our roles. On our first day, we shared our progress and learned about effective teamwork and making the most of available resources. We also had a great time at the beach, building sand castles, playing water games, and enjoying the limbo together. Our beachside bonding continued over a delicious dinner of grilled fish, which brought us even closer as a team. 

On the second day, we had meaningful classroom discussions that helped us improve our skills in our roles. After the sessions, we visited Casa, an non-profit organization that provides food to hundreds of people in need every day. We joined hands with them, peeling vegetables and making traditional Portuguese soup for those less fortunate. It was a humbling and heartwarming experience to see how our collective efforts could make a positive impact on people's lives. Our time in Lisbon ended with yet another delicious seafood feast by the sea, celebrating our success training and charitable work.

Looking back, our trip to Lisbon was amazing. We had a chance to grow professionally, bond as a team, and help the community. Being part of this event, surrounded by dedicated people working to uplift communities and promote self-reliance, was truly inspiring. This experience has touched our hearts and strengthened our commitment to support those in need. We're coming back with renewed motivation, ready to apply what we've learned and make a positive difference in people's lives.

The Extraordinary Song and Dance Festival

The National Song and Dance Festival overtakes every street, park and home filled with participants or fans who have gathered in Riga from every corner of Latvia and even overseas. No wonder this magnificent and exhilarating event lasts 10 days. This grand spectacle stands as a testament to the abundant cultural heritage, eagerly anticipated by Latvians. It captures a profound sense of cultural pride that unites thousands of participants in a spirit of community and honor.

As the festival unfolds, the city of Riga bursts into life with a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. Streets are adorned with flags and decorations, and the air is filled with excitement. Beyond the main performances, visitors can immerse themselves in a plethora of cultural events, exhibitions, and parades, further enriching their experience. The infectious energy and joyful camaraderie make the festival a truly unforgettable celebration of Latvian culture.

The sheer magnificence of the performances captivates the senses. Each region’s distinct and colorful costumes, formed with energetic dance moves, create a lasting impression to all those fortunate to watch it. Watching thousands of dancers moving in perfect harmony across the stage is truly an astounding sight.

In conclusion, the Latvian Song and Dance Festival is an awe-inspiring celebration that embodies cultural pride, unity, and community spirit. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing cultural heritage, making it a must-see event for anyone seeking an extraordinary cultural experience.

Transforming Lives in Praia

This week has been filled with exciting developments as we work on numerous projects, and I'll share one of them with you. In the capital city Praia, Cabo Verde, an project is underway to transform the lives of inmates and street children, offering them hope for a better future.

In collaboration with the local prison, efforts are being made to rehabilitate inmates and equip them with valuable skills that will enable their successful reintegration into society upon release. The focus is on teaching auto body repair, carpentry, auto mechanics, house painting, and agriculture, among other practical skills. Thanks to the support of the Church, these projects have received funding to purchase the necessary tools and resources. By providing inmates with the means to find employment opportunities, we can help break the cycle of crime and reduce recidivism rates in Praia.

However, the challenges faced by Praia's community extend beyond the prison walls. The city is home to a significant number of street children who are desperately lack guidance, purpose, and the means to build a self-sufficient future. Poverty, limited education, and financial constraints have left these children vulnerable to risky activities such as drugs, prostitution, and theft. To address these issues, the prison created a project called "Educate to Change" with the focus of training at-risk street children with their entrepreneurial ideas. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints would fund and acquire food carts and initial supplies for 12 families with teenage children. They are required to successfully complete self-reliance classes and then these families are equipped to start their own businesses, providing for their children and teaching them valuable business practices.

With these projects in development, Praia is witnessing a transformation for both inmates and street children. By investing in their education, skills, and entrepreneurial spirit, we are empowering individuals to break free from the constraints of poverty and lead fulfilling lives. The efforts made by the Church and the local community serve as an inspiring example of compassion, determination, and the belief that everyone deserves a second chance. As these projects continue to unfold, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact they will have on the lives of those involved and the wider Praia community as a whole.