Kindred does Egypt but not like others do Egypt.
We've been wrestling to answer "How was Egypt?" when asked by many Kindred folks when Matt, Anastasia and I returned from our recent trip to Cairo. Why? Because it’s hard to sum up just how overwhelmingly busy, humbling and inspiring the city and its people are. Nigh on impossible actually. Our co-funded visit was to support the work we are doing with Plan colleagues here to raise awareness of their brand in the UK. We wanted to see first-hand what a positive difference the child-centred international development charity makes to communities around the world. And boy does it... Our itinerary was action-packed – a visit to a Central Cairo youth employability program one minute, and on to a literacy class for young mum’s in one of the most deprived areas of Cairo South the next. And more. Having that opportunity to see and hear for ourselves what really happens on the ground gave us an amazing insight into the impact of the charity. Powerful stuff. Anastasia recalls, “Talking to some of the children we met about the issues they face was a real eye opener.” Young boys and girls, who aren’t even yet 14, are old beyond their years. Childhood norms like play and even schooling are cut short by the need for them to go out and support their families. Some work in incredibly dangerous situations for 12 hours a day to earn a wage, whilst others are married off. Yet, despite this, the children we met were chatty, cheeky and full of energy. A real inspiration. Thanks to the community programmes supported by Plan, these youngsters are given the space, knowledge and tools to improve their lives for the better. Plan’s work empowers them to address the challenges they face in practical ways that bring lasting benefit to both them and their wider communities. Their spirit and positivity is the thing that will stay with us...forever. Yes, that’s what we’ll all remember about Egypt. [CS]
