Did YOU volunteer abroad?! If so, where and what inspired you to go?
Stina: I was a volunteer abroad in Mozambique in 1990 and this experiences changed my life. I went with a team of activists to teach women to read and write in Mozambique.
Our team started and ran three literacy centers in the slums of Maputo under the guidance of ADPP - Ajuda de Desenvolvimento do Povo Para Povo. Upon completion almost 500 women and youths had learned to read and write at a time of unrest and war the country.
What about the future of the industry? How do you think volunteer abroad and international education will change over the next 10 years?
Stina: The future is bright, but of course also full of challenges. I do think it's more bright because people all over the world are waking and realize that they need to get involved and make a difference.
Our planet and life as we know it, is at stake. More and more people will choose a career where they can actively work for a sustainable future that will benefit people and the planet.
What changes would you make to the study/volunteer abroad industry?
Stina: I would like to see more people getting actively involved in fighting global warming and fighting poverty. These are the two biggest issues facing mankind.
It is not enough to study the world, its people and languages, the knowledge we gain has to lead to action. Action needs knowledge and this is the combination of studies and action is what we need to basically save our future.
What country have you always wanted to visit?
Stina: China. China because there is so much sustainable development going on. Soon we will look to China and learn from how to create a sustainable future.