Help Lesotho

On December 8th 2009, our journalism class attended a conference at Ottawa University regarding International Development. The conference was very educational and eye openning. It explored International Development, it revealed the devastating facts regarding HIV/AIDS, and finally it informed us individuals what we can do to help. As a set example, one of the key note speakers was a Dr. Peg Herbert, a psychologist and university professor whom after realizing the state of Lesotho, decided to step in and take action. In 2004, she set out to make a difference and began the Help Lesotho organization. The non-governmental organization focuses its attention on a small country which is entirely surrounded by the Republic of South Africa. The country itself is magnificent yet they are in desperate need of help. At present, only 8% of the children attending high school actually end up graduating, about 40% of the population live below the international poverty line, and the country has the 3rd highest infection rate of HIV/AIDS. Such devastating facts reminds us of the importance of getting involved and helping them form a brighter future. Dr. Peg Herbert has devoted her life to helping those who need her most. Her dream is to see improvement in the lives of those who have lost hope. The stories she shared about her many trips inspired and touched many of us. Her organization has had tremendous success, and continues to expand as more people are becoming aware of the situation.
For further information on this wonderful oragnization, visit http://www.helplesotho.ca/index.html.
The website lists a variation of ways to get involved. Some include: sponsoring a grandmother or a child, and purchasing a Pearls for Girls piece of jewelry.
Hopefully Dr. Peg Herbert's journey and accomplishments can inspire many to realize that the future of many can be brightened by our efforts.

Spotlight on South Afirca

As part of a Journalism assignment, over the next couple of weeks, I will be blogging and keeping a close eye on South Africa. I hope to share with all of you the rich culture, as well as the recent issues and activities that are going on within the country. As Canadians, we distinguish ourselves as a peaceful country whom embraces all cultures. Thus, it is our duty to be well informed of world issues that affects us all. Of course, it is too much to try and tackle every country, and that is why I am merely concentrating on South Africa for now.

As the name reveals the Republic of South Africa is located at the southern tip of Africa. The country is known for a diversity in cultures, languages, and religious beliefs. In the weeks to come I will explore different aspects of the country tackling many characteristics that will distinguish and unite South Africa from other African countries. Important issues that will be discussed include the alarming problem with HIV and the spread of AIDS, the 2010 South Africa FIFA World Cup, and its relations with the rest of Africa and the world. Although a country not usually on the radar, it has a lot to offer and the exploration of it will hopefully be eye opening to many.