Great news so far from Ecuador, where Kelsey and Kim reported that “group harmony is off the charts”!
Four days into program, the group has filled their orientation with several activities, including day hikes to Cuicocha and Fuya Fuya, a waterfall expedition, and a weaving workshop. The group also visited a school in Otavalo, where the group spent a day interacting with the students there, organizing a soccer match and practicing their Spanish.
Sadiki, Dan, Cameron, David, and Noah particularly enjoyed the market visit, and the opportunities there to practice navigating and negotiating with their language skills. Mia, Ali, Gabriel, Claire, and Adrian relished in the school visit, where they organized games with the students. Emily, Michael, and Kaleb particularly enjoyed the hike in Cuicocha, which provided gorgeous views that made the physical challenge well worth it.
Today the group is traveling to Quito to complete their orientation before traveling to the community. The leaders reported that students are sharing feelings of excitement for the homestay as well as the natural nervousness of anticipation.
We hope to receive more photos and updates in the coming days.
Claire playing hand games with a student at the school.
Dan and Noah practicing their skills in the weaving workshop.
David and Ali enjoying some live music.
Happy 4th everyone! Wishing you a wonderful holiday from the GR office.
