Sally C.

1. What inspired you to apply for this Peace Corps position?

Prior to coming to Vanuatu, I was working in the English Language and Tourism Sector in Nepal. I wanted to continue my service and this position seemed similar but challenging in new ways. How was this small Pacific island nation working with tourism in a fragile environment and in a way that led with the local culture and traditions? To build on my learning and the work we had done in Nepal was exciting. I have been pleasantly surprised to see similarities in the seemingly disparate countries and cultures.

2. What projects are you working on with your community?

I am working with the Department of Tourism to develop the first national tourism investment strategy. This has involved extensive reading to understand the current situation and the myriad of challenges this young country faces.

Being in the capital, Port Vila, I also wanted to find ways to get involved with my neighborhood. I worked with Peace Corps staff to connect with a local church to start literacy classes with a large community across the lagoon from my home. Many children do not go to school for a number of reasons so together we have started classes a few times a week. I kayak across the lagoon to meet the students. This has been a highlight and a great way to get to know my neighbors.

3. How have you leveraged your previous professional experience in your service?

I bring an education lens to my work and always look for opportunities to introduce or increase training, learning and collaboration. The government structure here is extremely hierarchical, which is challenging. My numerous attempts at collaboration and information sharing aren’t always openly received. Gradually, I have noticed some small progress as I learn more and gain my colleagues’ trust. I’m reminded to take responses and reactions less personally and to persist.

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

I have always worked best when I’m wearing multiple hats: educator, marketer, program creator and businessperson. My position here incorporates all the varied aspects of tourism. Tourism touches all parts of society: local culture and language, natural resources, training, the economy and world events, infrastructure, and more.

Vanuatu is consistently ranked as the country most susceptible to natural disasters. Adapting to the changing environment is not an afterthought here but faced and incorporated into everyday life and business.

Working at this macro level, I want to still feel connected to day-to-day life. I’ve resolved to take small direct action with community members. I meet with small tourism operators, take weaving classes from the local mamas, and learn about their needs as they relate to tourism. It has been challenging and educational to find connections and synergies with the disparate parts of society.

5. What strategies have you used to navigate challenges during your service?

I’ve come to realize that I need to incorporate many strategies that do not come naturally to me: slow down, be patient, pause before speaking, hold comments and thoughts for a while. Lead with questions.

6. How will the skills you are developing help you in the future?

As an older Volunteer, I was not looking for career paths or advancement. However, I notice that as I slow down, I am observing and questioning more; I notice wasps building their nests in front of my porch, gecko mating habits on my walls and the vast life and movement on the reefs. I’ve started taking some classes on marine protected areas and who knows where that will lead. Fortunately, this interest is closely connected to my work with tourism.

7. Tell us about someone who’s impacted you during service.

I feel very fortunate to have the counterpart that I do. We have completely different ways of working, which was initially difficult. However, I’ve come to appreciate how he works and how effective that is in this context. He is a talker, a storyteller and easily moves between vastly different people and groups. He sees connections and possibilities and brings people together. Among his many positions, he previously worked for the Peace Corps and so understands the ethos of Peace Corps and Volunteers. He feels like a safe haven where I can express my frustrations and doubts while trusting that he will understand me.

8. What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned about your host country?

So many things: living in a small island nation and in a very young country (45 years of independent rule). What continues to astound me is people’s language flexibility, flowing between Bislama, French, English and local languages as well as their deep pride and continuance of their kastom (local cultural traditions).

9. How have you shared the culture here with family and friends back home?

Photos, periodic updates via substack, and emails

10. What would you say to someone thinking about joining the Peace Corps?

As an older Volunteer it has answered so many things I’ve been looking for: purpose, helping others, intense learning, adventure, downsizing, flexibility, challenging myself, exploring new areas.

Learn more about serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Vanuatu.