It’s not all about beneficiaries and donors…
Lucian Lee is pursuing his masters degree in development practice at Columbia University, and is now volunteering as a public health specialist with CMMB in Haiti. Here he talks about the team he is working with and how little things, like music, can bring a group together.
During my first month in Haiti, I had the opportunity to get to know the amazing CMMB Haiti team. They work on many programs in areas such as HIV, malaria, economic empowerment, and maternal and child health. Many of them interact with people living with illnesses or disabilities in vulnerable rural communities on a daily basis, celebrating small victories some days and experiencing setbacks and heartache on others.
To thank the staff for their efforts, help them recharge, and strengthen team spirit, the country team goes on an annual retreat to Côte-des-Arcadins. It is one of the most spectacular places in Haiti, about a two hours’ drive north of Port-au-Prince.
Before we even left Port-au-Prince, the traveling coach was already pumping with konpa music, and people were dancing and singing along to the tunes at the top of their lungs.
Upon arriving at our destination, the staff revealed their active nature and made a beeline for the sea. Over the course of the two days, we swam, played football, danced, joked, and laughed.
There was also some emotional and intellectual work to be done. As a team we sat down and thought deeply about the work we do and how we can do it better. Everyone was involved in team-building activities, relaying stories of their work and sharing ideas about how things could be improved.
One of the key messages that emerged was around building strong relationships with colleagues and beneficiaries through effective communication, trust, respect, and amiability.
After returning from the retreat, the staff also celebrated Dr. Vanessa Dorissant’s last working day with CMMB. She had been a dedicated and committed member of the team for seven years!
I have made very good friends here, and managed to get through some difficult times, thanks to great colleagues.” – Dr. Vanessa during her goodbye speech.
She is confident that her colleagues will continue the good work they have done together.
What I have come to realize is that all of CMMB Haiti’s achievements so far are not just about their programs and initiatives; not just about the beneficiaries and donors. They are also the result of how the team cares for one another.” They care so deeply for one another, and for the people in their country, and this care is what allows them to do such good work.
You can’t make things better without love and compassion. And this team is FILLED with both. I feel lucky to be part of it.
Sharing cake and joyful moments at CMMB Haiti!