Editor’s note: I originally started writing this post in late 2021, but decided I was still too close to the work to get my thoughts in order. Since then I have had some more time to process and I felt ready to finish writing. This post is dedicated to the selfless work and life ofContinueContinue reading “Saying Goodbye to Maban”
Tag Archives: refugee
Understanding Refugee Resettlement (Update)
This is a re-post with an update at the end on humanitarian parole. As tragic news continues to pour out of Afghanistan, and conversations around refugee resettlement continue to surface, I thought it would be a good time to give an overview of the refugee resettlement process. As someone who has worked on both theContinueContinue reading “Understanding Refugee Resettlement (Update)”
The ABC’s of Maban
Since I’m old now, I frequently find myself asking, “what is time?” 2021 has been no exception; I cannot believe how fast it’s gone! I’ve been in the field for about nine months, and time has truly flown by. It’s always difficult to describe everything going on in the field — things are busy andContinueContinue reading “The ABC’s of Maban”
A Day in the Life: Maban Edition
A question I frequently get asked living abroad in South Sudan is, “What is a normal day like for you?” Anyone who has worked in the non-profit sector knows that there is no normal day – crises are always arising and there is always more work than people to do it. International humanitarian work isContinueContinue reading “A Day in the Life: Maban Edition”
Refugees, Asylees, IDPs – What is the Difference?
Most people will have heard the terms “refugee” and “asylee,” however, these terms are often used in a colloquial way that doesn’t address their true meaning. In this post I will go over some important terms and definitions related to forced migration, explain some of the background on these terms, and discuss the importance ofContinueContinue reading “Refugees, Asylees, IDPs – What is the Difference?”
The Sights & Sounds of South Sudan
As I write this I am approaching one month in the field – the weather is hot and a couple of brief rains this week have given us all some hope. For those of you who followed my Peace Corps adventures in Burkina Faso, I thought it would be interesting to compare and contrast aContinueContinue reading “The Sights & Sounds of South Sudan”
Introduction to South Sudan
Greetings from Upper Nile State, South Sudan. I recently arrived in Maban County after a couple of weeks of quarantine, and I’m spending my time getting familiar with my surroundings and the excellent staff at my organization. Some readers may already have an understanding of the work I’m doing but in order to give othersContinueContinue reading “Introduction to South Sudan”
Why We Wander 