Stories from the field
Haiti Diary – Cheryl Kelly
My first impressions - simple moments and shocking reality
March 19, 2010
I’ve been in Haiti for five short days, but already I’ve seen so much and experienced so many emotions it feels like a lifetime.
Imagine what it is like to sit in the shade working on policies and procedures, a common work task, but looking up to see literally hundreds of Red Cross aid workers from all over the world , all there for one common purpose - to help. It’s strangely wonderful.
There have been simple moments, like saying “mesi anpil “ to my driver Lyonel, the only Creole I know meaning “thank you very much”, and moments of shocking reality, like seeing the devastation and rubble in the streets. Looking ahead, at all that needs to be done, can be overwhelming.
Today I had the pleasure of interviewing a local Haitian for an administrative position within our team. This was a wonderful experience and also a strong reminder of why we are here. This candidate revealed that she was supposed to graduate on January 16th, but her school was destroyed and she has no record or proof that she earned her degree. She indicated that after four and half years of hard work all that remained was a final presentation before she’d accomplished her educational dream. This is one of the many challenges we will face as we work with the community here in Haiti, and a sad reminder of the challenges they face as well.
All in all, I have learned so much in these first few days and I look forward to the next couple weeks and the many surprises they are certain to hold.
Cheryl Kelly is currently serving as the Human Resources Advisor for the Canadian Red Cross’ Overseas Personnel Department. She will be working in Haiti to help set up the personnel component of the Canadian Red Cross operation. Cheryl will interview and hire local staff, welcome and help brief staff from Canada and implement human resources policies and procedures.
