Kumanovo Kids

The Next PDM Shaun and I facilitated was in Kumanovo--we worked with Jeff, another MAK8 volunteer. This workshop was for a youth NGO and it was one of the most exciting because the participants were eager to learn the information and put their ideas into some sort of solid form. Working with (relatively) optimistic young people is motivating too, especially after our experience with older farmers and some slightly disillusioned Peace Corps volunteers.

In general the PDM workshop went well. There were frustrating times however, because the workshop fell immediately following the graduation of the seniors, many of whom were supposed to participate. The kids were frequently showing up late (or not showing up at all) and bringing their little photo albums, which inhibited productivity. I actually had to tell a girl that she needed to put her photos away if she wanted to take part in the workshop. It definitely provoked memories of teachers telling us to "stay on task"; from this experience I was also reminded that my patience with adolescents wears thin quickly.

In the photo above are two of the participants, Emilija (she was a superstar) and Angel. They were working on designing goals and objectives for a project that involves an art colony for artistic young people in Kumanovo.

The following two days Jeff , Shaun and I facilitated another PDM for the American corner in Bitola. This one was for any interested NGO folks. We had 20 registered. 15 showed up on the first day. 11 showed up on the second day (but not the same 11 from the previous day) and by the time it was finished I think we all were ready for a big break. This stuff takes is draining! Shaun then went on vacation to Turkey with Vanessa almost immediately after, but I had one last PDM to finish...