Wilfred and Anderson are Tanasuk’s new programming interns from Kenya. They’ll be contributing posts about their experience living and working in Jordan.
First of all, we’re so grateful and humbled to have had this opportunity to come to Tanasuk in Jordan. It’s been a month here in Amman and it’s already starting to feel like home.
We’ve become pretty convinced that Tanasuk is a perfect fit for us. We love the multicultural environment: the staff is friendly and we’re around amazing people with such diverse skills. It really feels like a very huge family.
This is a one in a lifetime opportunity and we’re confident our careers will grow immensely.
AIESEC, the program we’re interning with, offers an international platform for young people between 18 years to 35 years to fully explore and develop their potential through leadership experiences, learning platforms and exchanges. All these create an individual that is not only globally experienced, but has gained professional skills that can translate into their chosen career. Tanasuk has offered us all of this and much more.
We’re looking forward to exploring the history and culture of Jordan and, hopefully, sharpening our Arabic skills along the way. Thankfully, Arabic isn’t as difficult to learn for due to the level of similarity it has with our national language Kiswahili.
We’ve already picked up some few essential vocabulary words needed to navigate through the complex streets of Amman. Here’s our crash course so far:
yameen = right
ishmal = left
doogaree = straight
yalla – keep going
ahlan wa sahlan = welcome
shukran = thank you
.. .and many more
Not to mention, the Jordanian food is quite amazing (especially falafel). The multicultural aspect of Amman in general is quite wonderful. It seems to be a place where all nationalities can mingle in peace and harmony. This is a rare occurrence in this part of the world and seems to give the place a unique identity.
We’re looking forward to creating long lasting networks and friendships here in Jordan and also hope to share the experience we have to inspire more people to participate in an AIESEC exchange program and enhance their global experience.
Salaam,
Wilfred and Anderson