Why did you decide to enroll with Rustic Pathways in Morocco?
Emanuela: I enrolled with Rustic Pathways because a friend of mine had previously gone on a trip to Costa Rica with the program and had a wonderful time.
She told me Rustic Pathways not only helped her to volunteer, but also allowed her to learn about the Costa Rican culture, interact with local people, and create an unbreakable bond with her rustic peers.
Furthermore, she told me about the truly 'rustic' experience she lived. I was looking for something that would take me out of my comfort zone and Rustic Pathways couldn't have been a better match!
Describe your day to day activities as a volunteer.
Emanuela: My day was divided into two. In the mornings my volunteering consisted of teaching young children (ages 5-17) basic math skills and English vocabulary in the small Berber village of Zawita Ahansal.
The second part of my day consisted of farming in the sheiks local garden. Although they were both extremely challenging activities it made them all the more exciting and rewarding!
What was the most interesting cultural difference you encountered?
Emanuela: The religion was an extremely different cultural aspect. I found that in Morocco religion is the basis by which Moroccans run their lives. About 98% of Moroccans are Muslims whereas in the USA there is more of a variety of religions which require less commitment and time than Islam.
Tell me about one person you met.
Emanuela: Sara was one of the rustic leaders on my trip. I had the honor and privilege to meet such an amazing and inspirational person.
Before I met her, I knew very little about Islam and the Moroccan culture. Having lived in America and Italy my whole life my perception of that part of the world was very skewed.
Sara explained to me that women aren't the victims the American television portrays them to be.
She spoke to me about her dream and inspirations in life and answered my questions without holding back or shying out. I will always remember and cherish our friendship and her kind heart.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Emanuela: This experience has definitely changed the way I view this part of the world and the islamic religion.
As mentioned above, my perception of this part of the world was purely formed by the American media.
After having actually travelled to this part of the world, has made me realize how biased and inaccurate most of the information delivered actually is.
In addition, after having lived under 'rustic' and difficult circumstances in a berber village my priorities have also changed. I realized how unnecessary material objects are and how, rather, love and the kindness of the human spirit are the true key to happiness and well being.