Back in Olango Island with a Cause

As of the moment, I am hanging out in an al fresco restaurant with my feet on a white sandy beach. It feels surreal - a pure getaway. I am literally spending time with strangers. I am talking to Vin, a 25-year old bi who would take me diving tomorrow. The house music is taking me away in a different dimension while speaking in a foreign language. But yes, I need to pause to write an article for this week. One that I am so happy to do - my experience in Olango Island. 

Quick Calls and Coordination

It was my first time to hear about BitGive. This is a group of cryptocurrency that donates a percentage of their profit to partner foundation, and amazingly, they donated 1000USD to our organization. 

Well, I supposed to take a leave off from work for two weeks but because of this unexpected donation, I had to arrange a distribution. There wasn't a single place I was thinking about except for Olango Island. 

"My then fellow teachers in Sta. Rosa"

Immediately, I called the school head who was my co-teacher before to arrange for a distribution. Our short notice was well-received likewise our packs that are ready for distribution.

On the Day of Distribution

The moment I arrived in the island, the first thing that I noticed was its development. Almost a decade ago, we used to struggle on a pumpboat especially if the weather wasn't fine, and its waves were crazy high. But now, fastcrafts are bringing the passengers comfortably not to mention their improved port. So much has changed in Olango Island. 

"On our way to Olango Island with Lyzza, our volunteer."

At the school, I hastily went to my former classroom. Reminiscing memories of my 38 students, the activities and lessons we used to perform. It was nostalgic to be back in a school I was rooted. 

The Girls and their Enthusiasm

Exactly 34 girls were gather in circles with me. The girls were really keen to participate in the session. It was a session that tackled about their rights as children and as girl. I was surprised at first how energetic they were. I used to paint my mind that I would be meeting shy girls but I was wrong. That moment was different. I was laughing and listening with them. I found myself enjoying genuinely - I was missing the classroom vibe. During the distribution, I saw how thankful they were. The flash of their smiles and the never-ending "thank you's". It was more than fulfilling. 

"One of the girl's self map"

"Some our girls during the mentorship session."

The Consolation that Flutters my Heart

Other than the distribution and mentorship, I found my heart jumped with joy. My longtime crush blogger was with me and helping me out during the distribution. I guess, that was inspiration enough.

"Naganahan gyud ka sa imong pagkuyog nako?" I asked him while we were in Marine Sanctuary after the distribution. 

"Kinsa man ang momata og sayo, Gel, if wala?" he answered. 

At that moment, I found his answer sweet and genuine. True enough, he is right. This NGO job is more than distribution. It is passion and dedication. Him being with me after he had a long day at a certain event and catching up for another event was enough for me to appreciate him. 

Goodness! If he only knew how inspired I am everytime he does things for me. 

Anyway, I spent the rest of the afternoon swimming, snorkelling and island hopping. It was indeed a wonderful event. 

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