Adele L.

1. What got you interested in the Peace Corps?

I recognized early on my desire to learn new languages and contribute meaningfully to the world in an exciting and impactful way. The Peace Corps has always been a prominent topic in my family, representing an incredible opportunity for Americans to explore, grow, and learn through service to others. My mother admired Jane Goodall, my uncle Steven served as the U.S. ambassador to Australia, and my aunt Lorraine dedicated years to disaster aid in Mexico. Each of them encouraged me to consider service through the Peace Corps.

2. What projects are you working on?

I am currently engaged in various exciting community projects. One of my key roles involves co-facilitating a life-skills club for children at my school alongside my counterpart, as well as helping to coach sports.

In my community, football and volleyball dominate, but I have helped introduce new sports like softball, basketball, and kickball. Some may feel intimidated by certain sports so I believe it's essential to offer fun options for everyone, regardless of their athletic skill. To assist this initiative, my counterparts and I are proud to be developing a program called “Creating Coaches.” This program aims to provide a comprehensive training program for teachers who want to take on coaching roles in order to expand opportunities for the kids to engage in various sports.

Lastly, as an artist, I have had the joy and opportunity to work closely with a house of culture and my fellow Peace Corps Volunteer, Kennedy. Together, we created a mural for Women’s Month with local children and are currently running an after-school art program that combines visual arts, writing, and theater. Whether through sports, art, or environmental initiatives, there is always something meaningful to be done.

3. What strategies have you used to integrate into your community?

I always say “yes.” When we first arrived at site, a fellow Volunteer and I made it a priority to meet as many people as possible, such as the police chief and mayor, our town baker, store owners—anyone and everyone. This openness to invitations and meeting new people has led to long-lasting professional relationships and new friends.

I was fortunate to have an amazing host family who have played a pivotal role in my experience. They welcomed me in like family, brought me along to many community events, and introduced me to family members who were also involved in my school and village. Today, I live independently, although I have dinner and movie nights with them. They were integral to helping me feel connected and comfortable in a new place, and I was so proud to be able to introduce them to my mom, who came over from the States to meet my host family.

4. What is a highlight of your time in service so far?

The relationships and connections I’ve built with my school counterparts. I came into my program knowing I would love the kids and the activities, but I wasn’t prepared for the incredible enthusiasm and support of my school counterparts and principal. Getting to work with people who are so passionate, excited, and encouraging has made this service truly enriching. I see my teacher and principal and how they interact with their students, community members, and fellow educators, and am inspired to be a better leader. My teacher’s attitude, often infused with a touch of silliness, creates a joyful learning environment. Meanwhile, my principal embodies empathy and calmness, demonstrating how effective leadership can positively influence others.

Another highlight of service is the breathtaking beauty of Belize. I can spend hours walking through the lush nature, animals roaming freely, and children playing while their moms hang laundry. The slower pace of life here, centered on family and surrounded by nature, has been so beautiful to witness.

5. What have you enjoyed most about the community where you are serving?

I am serving in a vibrant border town. I wouldn’t want to serve anywhere else. It is a historical town with a rich past. We have local Mayans and mestizo people, and living here allows me to continually improve my Spanish while forging meaningful relationships.

The town loves to celebrate colorfully, whether it is rich sawdust tapestries on the roads for Easter, or lively Christmas dances that can last until dawn. In a small town like this, you can easily get to know everyone, participate in many activities, and explore the beautiful surroundings. We are nestled on a gorgeous river that is emerald green in the dry season, and I often spend weekends there with friends and family, with lots of food, music and swimming. We have an ancient Mayan ruin nearby that is an awe-inspiring peek into the ancient world. I could go on about its charms, but nothing beats the intersection of community, nature, and history that is wrapped up in one in this beautiful town.

6. What are some of the most important things you’ve learned from your community?

One remarkable aspect of life here is how people take care of their neighbors. Every time my host mom makes bread or tamales, she always makes extras knowing she will bring them next door, and we constantly receive delicious plates of food in return. There is such a joy in sharing and generosity here in Belize.

I’ve also learned to let go of the constant pressure and immediacy often associated with work culture in the U.S. Here the concept of “Belize time” truly exists. Responses may not come immediately because people prioritize family and personal commitments, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Transitioning from a culture where it often feels like "now or never," I've learned to manage my time more effectively and embrace the idea that everything will unfold as it should. I believe many people in the U.S. would benefit from experiencing this culture of balancing work with everyday life. By embracing a more relaxed approach to time, we can cultivate a sense of peace and fulfillment in our daily lives and have healthier relationships with our jobs.

7. How do you spend time when you are not working on a project?

When I am not working on a project I enjoy exploring the beauty of Belize. I take walks, swim, read amongst the local Mayan ruins, spend time with friends, and savor the local cuisine. Belize has a rich biodiversity, and I have enjoyed pressing flowers and even finding butterfly wings to save and make art from.

My home is just a bus ride away from a larger bustling town where I enjoy going to the farmers’ market for fresh milk and fish and browsing through the used clothing tables for clothes that will help me stay cool in the tropical heat.

8. What are you looking forward to in your remaining time as a Volunteer?

Service is a whirlwind experience; it feels both incredibly fast and surprisingly slow; it is hard to believe I am approaching the halfway mark of my program. I am thrilled to see some of the initiatives I have started with my counterparts take shape and come to fruition. I look forward to spending more time with kids at my school and seeing them grow, and am excited to participate in many more festivals whether Valentine’s Day or the crowning of the Flor de Feria.

I am also grateful I will be able to celebrate milestones, like my host brother turning 16; he was 14 when I first got here and has already changed so much. I also look forward to bringing family and friends from home to experience my life here and meet the incredible people I spend time with. I cherish the moments of this incredible adventure, and it is a bittersweet feeling to look ahead.

9. Once you finish service, what will you do differently when you return to the U.S.?

I believe that Peace Corps service fundamentally changes us. There is personal growth from leaving everything you find familiar, learning customs and habits from a new culture, and experiencing a constant flow of emotions. I have seen the impact of multigenerational homes, the emphasis on family, a better balance between work and personal life, and just my own personal growth and strength.

While I have always aspired to be a midwife, my time in the Peace Corps has inspired me to pursue a broader medical education so that I will be equipped to respond to emergencies in my local communities when most needed. One of the most valuable skills I will take home is my newfound ability to speak Spanish. Having worked on maternity wards and NICUs, I witnessed firsthand the challenge and frustration of not being able to communicate your needs directly. I have gained a new tool I can use in my career and personal life to make people feel welcome and comfortable. The Peace Corps has not only shaped my career aspirations but also equipped me with invaluable skills that will enhance my ability to serve others.

Want to learn more about serving in Belize? Connect with a recruiter today.