The trip is now coming to an end. We have been to Havana, Matanzas, and Varadero, which have all been very beautiful and interesting. Today, we spent out third day working on the permaculture site, and did a variety of tasks. We used machetes to clear fields, cut grooves in bricks for a roof at the centre, and cleared rocks from the fields. It was hard work, but I had a lot of fun, and felt very much part a larger movement of permaculture, and social justice.
After working, we had the opportunity to tour the city of Matanzas. We saw a view of the port from a lookout point, we also went to see the main square, which was full of sunshine and laughter from the Cuban children! We also went to the oldest pharmacy in Cuba, which was very historic and we had the chance to see how the medicine was made from beginning to end. We also had an opportunity to enjoy the beach in the afternoon, which was gorgeous. Many Cuban families were out on the beach as well. It was nice to see Cubans engaging with friends and family, and some of us had a chance to chat with the local Cubans. As the trip is coming to an end, I will be sad to leave. I learned a lot about myself coming here, and a lot about Cuban culture. I learned that I hope to give back more to my community, whether it be national or international community. We are all global citizens, meant to help each other, and learn from each other. I learned a lot about Cuban culture, that they value helping others, care for their environment, value learning and inquisitiveness, and are very inventive and resourceful. I want to take this opportunity to thank Centennial College for allowing me the chance to experience Cuba, and learn about the value of permaculture and learn about Cuban culture. I had a wonderful experience, and I hope to be back to Cuba again!
THE GLOBAL EXPERIENCE BLOG 