Hannah Clarke describes working in poverty-stricken Uganda as one of the best experiences of her life.
The 27 year-old’s social conscience has called her to Uganda for a second time – this time she’s there for a three-month stint working with women at the Nakivale refugee camp.
Ms Clarke’s first trip was in 2009 to work for more than a year on HIV prevention. She had no running water and cooked over hot coals.
“While it may not sound appealing to some, it was one of the best experiences of my life,” she said.
“You learn to value things differently – you care more about the people around you.”
Ms Clarke says her work at the refugee camp, as part of a program by TASAAGA [Tokamalirawo Aids Support and Action Group Awareness] has sometimes been confronting.
“Women in the camp are incredibly vulnerable to sexual exploitation, slavery and human trafficking,” she said from Uganda.
“This project is incredibly important because it provides women with skills that will enable them to generate an income.”
Ms Clarke’s strong passion for social justice started in high school. She grew up in Bacchus Marsh and now lives in Altona. Her love of travel and new cultures lead her to join TASAAGA.
“If you work with the right organisation in the right project your work can have a global impact,” she said.
Details: www.tasaaga.org.
Esther Lauaki
